Modern Automatics can be considerably more fuel efficient. It's all computer controlled. CVTs especially. Now, if he had gotten sports car I'd be right there with you.
A 2004 truck, not so much.
Nice grab though on the miles. I bought my 2012 Jetta (Gas, Silver, S model w\ sunroof & premium sound) for $13.3k, and 29k miles about a year ago.