Personaly I would avoid anything automatic as they use more fuel and perform less but mostly because if the autobox goes wrong the cost of replacement could well write the car off, a manual box will probably last the life of the car. I know that doesn't answer you question but I'm sure someone will be along who can.

The OP mentioned considering a Civic 1.7 diesel-be aware that the 1.7 is not a Honda sourced engine, it's an Isuzu based unit similar to the Vauxhall 1.7 lump.

I had one briefly, not a bad motor but it suffered from a sharp clutch, knocking o/s top engine mount and the start of gearbox problems which were known to occur on this model.

Also the window mechanisms give problems on the 3 door, and water leaks into the tailgate which can rot the tailgate through if not sorted.

P/exed it for a 2007 Civic 2.2 cdti Sport.