my wifes focus does pretty well through the mountains. never had an issue other than the 4 banger being underpowered. my work van is an auto and it does just fine. that said, i still much prefer a manual.
when i bought my f250 superduty i lucked out and was able to pick one up with a 6speed manual. now that thing has zero issues in the mountains with a trailer on the back hauling a 3/4 ton truck.
