My car has the 722.5 transmission. It's not really all that bad, but would probably be better with 1st gear start. Of course, Houston is basically flat as a board - SF is not (insert gross understatement here). The car will neatly downshift to 1st when required, without having to floor it, so I wouldn't worry too much about the hills - just don't get in a hurry.

As for range - that's the best part about the car. When it's running right and I'm not too abusive, I get about 400 miles before the low-fuel light comes on - thats for in-town mixed driving. On the highway, around 500 per tank.

I'm still trying to figure out how to convert the car to 1st gear start - not having much luck there. Every lead I get is a dead-end street. I don't want something permanent, just in case I find it too annoying. With a 3:69 rear gear, plus a 3.5+ first gear, I might find the quick shift to 2nd bothersome.