4x4 v6 6 speed or auto?

6-speed all the way.

 

the manual has a different gear ratio, hence the slightly quicker acceleration and the worse gas mileage

 

I agree with 07dcsb...6th gear does leave something to be desired when it comes to highway driving.

I would go the 6 speed route. Install a short throw shifter (easy to do and it'll build confidence in understanding the mechanics of the vehicle..if he doesn't know how to work on cars well)

Up here in the snow, the 6 speed is where it's at. Much more control over vehicle.

Don't coddle a young driver by handicapping them from the start. Learn on a stick, drive anything. Learn on an automatic, good luck with a stick.

 

i bought an auto because i didn't wanna have to pull the tranny and fix the inevitible throw out bearing problem, it's the first auto i've owned in 12 years but at least i wont have to work on it!