Most people that say auto sucks and manual is great need to drive a manual in bumper to bumper city traffic for a while. I have a manual and I absolutely hate the thing on most days because I am always going clutch in 1st, clutch in 2nd, stop, clutch in 1st and repeat forever. I've yet to leave 2nd gear in just my regular driving and have only experienced the beauty of the other gears on my drive home.

Given your situation a base model is a better idea and is a better investment of your money. If we all wanted torque and power we would not be buying a Honda. I wanted reliability and a lower price tag when I got my Honda.

Good luck with your purchase and welcome to HAN.