Auto without a doubt! mime has tiptronic as well so no problems if I want use as a manual, but find I do not have to as the box sorts itself out, 25mpg towing, the 5 speed auto does help also.
I have a manual (use for work ) and a automatic with Tiptronic for towing. Have used auto for years for towing and would never go back to manual.
Have 4WD (3.00 Litre TDI) and car just sits on motorway pulling van with no effort in 8th gear at 60 mph rarely dropping to 7th unless steep incline. Really good fuel economy too.
I have a manual at the moment when in cruise control going up a hill you have to change gears i have problems with my lower limbs this is the reason why i am getting a Automatic because then it will do the work for me ,