I might as well get in on this. I was taught how to drive manual in a 98 accord, mom's car, about 3 summers ago. I didn't think I could do it but got the hang of it pretty quickly. The reason I didn't get a manual fit is that I didn't have too much exp. driving manual and I didn't want to look like a fool test driving one. I also didn't want to really learn on the fit and mess something up. I doubt I would have but didn't want to risk it. When I have money I plan on buying a junker 5 speed and learning on that.

I'll agree that manual are def. more fun to drive and have pretty much every advantage over an AT with the exception of traffic driving and having a free hand. You feel more connected with the car. It doesn't seem as heavy like something's holding it back.

In terms of the Fit AT, I wish they would have def. spread the gears out a little more for better top end. Although, I have to say that I rarely have to downshift into 3rd. Mostly just unlocking to torque converter and 4th only. I have lots of hills too. I also would of rather had a manual shifting mode like my 99 lude did, with the shifter on the floor with that you actually had to shift up, and it usually shifted down for you. Even though it was Auto it was still fast but that tranny was crap. It was pretty much Honda test subject for the tiptronic.

 

right-on. I drive my '08 and '09 75-80 on the interstate/freeway- 80mph =4000rpm, 75=3800 rpm, the '08 has 215,000 miles and after a major tune-up (plugs, packs, valve adjustment, oil, and air filter r&r). I get 38 mpg with it. '09 mt/ is 31-32 at best, with 90,000 mi.. I'm suspecting a timing chain tensioner problem due to the noise it makes under a no-load condition. sounds rodish in noise but not consistent as a rod would make. something is banging the block.

but the mt has the ability to keep the motor in its powerband which don't start till about 4000 rpms.