It seems from my research, that the oil consumption problem is more of a YES/NO problem that manifests itself early, and that those that make it to the 30/40k mile mark seem to be ok.

I have an 05 6MT and have neither of those problems.

I got mine recently, and have been checking oil a lot. No problems yet.

Only problem I have is that my right foot seems to be putting on weight.

Hmmm ... pdx ... Blaze ... who apparently lives in the Rose Garden. Let me guess, you two are both from some place north or south of Burnside and east or west of Tom McCall Waterfront Park?

Lived for about 9 years out there, in inner SE, near the Baghdad. Loved it, still miss it. I really miss the mountains and the good beer. And smokin' hot chicks who didn't need to wear makeup. If it wasn't 2500 miles from the rest of my family I'd still be living there.

pdx, get an extended warranty, it's definitely worth it. I talked several times with Beaverton Infiniti about Elite Plans and they were very helpful even though I wasn't buying a car from them. They'll work with you on options and pricing.