It could be a cvt, my neighbor has one in his car and loves it, if you could program the stall speed with a chip I think you might have something.

I have had both manual and auto transmissions, but in very different vehicles.  The manual was a 200tdi defender, which had a really good low ratio box (stock) and loads of torque.  The hill climbing/ rock crawling worries never surfaced....just kept on going.  (and a turbodiesel needs to keep on going!)

The automatic in my 1800 sidekick is a good match, and fits the relatively low levels of torque better (and I think that the ratio in low is higher....stock).  I am glad its an automatic....

One thing that I really miss though, is the engine breaking on down hill twisty bits.  I really DONT LIKE standing on the brakes here.  Feel totally out of control. 

Still, plus ca change...

well My 2cents, i prefer the manual in my DD and for off road, but when it comes to carrying around the kids Auto all the way,  that is why the kik in manual and sub and van are auto.

Although if you have a 3 speed auto kick and you swap in the thirds from a 5 speed manual, you go from 4.62 ratio to 5.12 ratio which is just about right for 31's...

I flat out hate autos. Every single one I have owned has leaked and left me walking. My in my lifetime Ive had 11 turbo 350s go bad, (8 in an off road rig-3 in the tow rig I had at this time) a C6 (tow rig) and a 700r4 (also tow rig)

I had a vehicle fire from overheating an auto and fluid shot out of the dipstick all over the headers.

I have since vowed to never own another.

All my vehicles are now manuals.

Mike