I have the A343F auto and like it a lot. They are bullet proof transmissions. I like that they lock up in 3rd and 4th. A big advantage over the A440F and A442F in my opinion (less heat). The auto is excellent for 4x4ing. So easy to apply power gently. No stalling. The auto is also nice in heavy stop/go traffic.
The manual transmission has a dual mass flywheel which apparently is prone to problems and needs to be changed out for a single mass one. Comparing the gear ratios I think the A343F has better ratios, but that is just my opinion.
Each has it's merits.