I have recently switched…
I have recently switched from driving a manual 5 speed 2009 Tacoma SR5 with 6ft bed and crank windows to an auto. Can it get annoying in traffic, sometimes? Yes, but 95% of the time I could just put it in first, and let the truck crawl at 3-5 mph. Only way that clutch won't last the life of the truck is if you're extremely heavy on the clutch . It can easily last 200k to 250k miles with good driving practices. Tacomas are much more lively with the manual as well. The autos feel very dead when driving them, and spirited driving isn't really possible. If you are planning to use this truck at all for off-roading, hauling, donuts, or any type of fun driving then I absolutely recommend the manual version of any vehicle. If this is going to be your daily driver, never leave the pavement, or put it sideways to put a smile on, then buy the auto. I've been driving an auto for the past six months and I've already been trying to find another manual to daily instead. If you love rowing gears and driving, buy the manual. If you love convenience, then buy the auto.