For me the problem with the auto trans is the random hunting for a gear while going up a hill. This is extremely frustrating since a tiny change in angle results in a very different speed, and coupled with the problem of not always knowing what your angle is, creates alot of guesswork. I dont think that a manual trans is worth going back to, I just wish what we had was predictable. If it was I don't think there would be many complaints.
I'm going with the auto trans (but more predictable) because I'm taking the role of the "tank commander" I'm not shifting, my driver is. I dont have to push buttons to reload, that stuff just gets in the way.