I would suggest ordering it with everything you want from the factory. You may pay a little more up front, but you won't spend time later modifying it, or paying someone to modify it. If you think you may want a winch in the future, order it with a steel bumper. This will get the stiffer springs installed at the factory so there is less drop in the front when the winch is added. Some options, like the front camera, cannot be added later by the dealer. I bought off the lot, but it was one of the first the dealer ordered, and it had every option included (except the block heater and front camera).
I love manuals too. My WRX is a manual. But I am glad I bought the automatic on the gladiator. The 8 speed is a great transmission. And without it the towing capacity is crap. Sport S max tow here.
