Thanks for the input fellers, I do want a new Jeep but I also want to enjoy it.
I've driven plenty of manual & auto Jeeps in situations from extreme to daily driving, I don't remember thinking "I wish this was an auto". I do remember thinking, "if this was a manual I'd be having way more fun".
OK I like to hoon a little, I can do that occasionally when wheeling and not endanger others but have you ever tried hooning with an auto? It's nowhere near as much fun. It's an art driving a manual as no two people do it quite the same, most get it wrong and when you get it right its a feeling that's satisfying, fun! and this fun thing is cheaper to buy and maintain when you know how to use it.
So If I buy a new JL it's 3g added to the retail price for a pacifier between the skinny black pedal and the wheels that removes part of the fun.
Most serious wheeler's turn off all the control assist gadgetry and chose to rely on diff locks, bead locks and other manual techniques so I don't see the point of paying for all the gadgetry in the first place.
I saved up for a JL and I like to do things I know I shouldn't do but only if it's going to be enjoyable. Since I don't enjoy driving autos and don't need the tech, I'm out of the JL equation.
Best wishes to all who buy a JL, there is nothing quite like buying a new car and I recommend everyone does it at least once in there life...
...manual or auto, whatever floats your boat.