From what I can tell when driving off-road, the stick has not been that much of a problem. I guess it's all what your used to or willing to put up with. I always thought their would be less of a chance being stranded with a stick. I agree going up hill and over obstacles with an auto would be easier. I just put her in low and go. When I test drove the S/C X auto v.s. S/C X stick that made my choice clear. As far as resale goes maybe the amount of perspective buyers will be less trying to sell a 5-speed, but hey maybe someone will be willing to pay the asking prices just to have the 5-speed.