[GAsilver5.3]

Wow guys. Thanks for all of the head's up on everything! I would prefer an auto just because it's easier off road and pulling boats up a ramp from a stand still. I have owned a few manuals and loved the mileage... just not the throw-out bearing rattle and replacing the plates and city traffic.
I have heard that Isuzu is one of the most experienced diesel makers in the world. What could I get a good Isuzu diesel out of that has Low low bottom end torque, reliability, cheap, and easy swap?
I would wait for a wrecked baby d-max...(still might); but with all of the comp. tech. in it wouldn't that be a hard swap? What kind of fuel economy is that thing supposed to offer anyway with the trans they are throwing in behind it?
All I am looking for is around 150hp(all I really need) and 300-400ft/lbs (about what I have now) in an engine with about half of the displacement(3L or less). Then take that engine and set gearing(6spd)appropriately.
What are some good sturdy 6spds available??? Manual or Auto