Instead of getting anecdotes & opinions here, why don't you check the advertised consumption figures (either on here or dozens of other websites) for the cars & compare against your current 'performance' against advertised consumption in your current car - i.e. if you get 30% below in your current car with type of journey/driving style, you'll most likely get a similar percentage in your new car - much more logical.

Hi

The BMW 318d should do roughly the same mpg as the manual for most driving My brother has a automatic 320d touring and says he rarely gets less than 40mpg. Admittedly he does do many motorway miles. I reckon fuel economy wont differ hugely as they are generally very efficient cars.

Also when you come to sell it on the auto car will be worth more than a manual equivalent so if it isn't costing you any extra to have the automatic it might be a wise idea to take it.

Good Luck mate

thanks

only worry is extra fuel costs over 3 years,i average 18 k a year