Automatics are easier to drive, but manuals are easier to repair. Most local mechanics don't understand automatic transmissions. Besides, a good suspension is more crucial to a comfortable ride than the type of transmission. I've been hiring Careem taxis a lot lately so I've had a chance to sit through in a variety of cars. Surprisingly, the smoothest ride I found was the WagonR. Every small car (even the Vitz) is very uncomfortable on uneven roads. The corollos (even the latest model) I found to be pretty hard on uneven roads too.