According to @Scottymechanic, Aisin, a company owned by Toyota, makes the best transmissions (NOT including CVTs).
Helpful, but I'm still not totally clear on how the clutch works. Perhaps I need to review this a few times.
1) Research via Edmunds.com & TrueCar.com
Transmission problems, unless you buy a stick. Four-cylinder engines are more reliable than their six-cylinder engines.
Why? Because the prices are too high & they give very little back for your trade-in.
Nissan Altima, Mini Cooper, Chevy Cruze, Fiat (any model), Range Rover
Toyota Corolla
Honda Civic - standard transmission
Ford Crown Victoria
Mazda Miata
Ford F-150
Stay away from these Kia cars because the can start on fire. Kia and Hyundai recalls
Toyota Camry of those listed...With 4 cylinder engine over the 6 because 4 last longer and have less maintenance.