I'm looking at two different model.

First one is the Titanium , Automatic, Rapid 401A package with the sport interior option, navi . Fully loaded. Ford.ca price is 33 664 $ CAN.

Second one is a SEL Manual, Rapid 303A Package with the Luxury group, navi, fully loaded. Ford.ca price is 30 474 $ CAN.

One Question :

1 - For the estimated 3k difference, is it worth it switching to the automatic ? I've heard only good things about it. Not the same with the manual.

Guideautoweb.com

'' Premièrement, la boîte manuelle à cinq rapports possède deux rapports surmultipliés. Pour obtenir un peu plus de muscles et de reprises, il faut donc rétrograder au troisième rapport. C'est même essentiel pour effectuer des dépassements en toute sécurité. Même si l'embrayage est progressif et si la course du levier de vitesses est précise, ce n'est pas toujours intéressant. ''

A well reputed journalist here in Montreal has wrote this, which translates :

'' First, the five-speed manual transmission has two overdrive gears. For a little more muscle and times, we must demote the third report. It is also essential for performing safe overtaking. Even if the clutch is progressive and if the race shifter is accurate, it is not always interesting.''

Would like to have your comments !

Cheers.

Personally, I will be getting the SEL 5-speed. I am specifically not getting the Titanium because it doesn't come with a manual tranny.

Fuel economy will be better with the automatic, but I just prefer to drive a manual. I have also heard not so good things about the automatic tranny. It is the same one as the Fiesta.

If you read in here, there are lots of people in the US who are upset that they can only get the S and SE models in 5-spd. In the US SEL and Titanium only come with Automatic tranny.

Apparently the performance is better from the dual clutch auto transmission. Other cars in the segment like the Elantra also get better reviews on the auto transmission.

I would go with the five speed, but that's just me. I really don't like autos on a small car.

Personally if I still lived in Canada I would be getting the SE with Sport Package because I want the sport tuned suspension as well as the manual transmission.
That said I do really like the SEL trim , it is very nice and reminds me of the same level Ghia trim that we used to have in Europe.
If sporty dynamics is not a preference then I would go with the SEL and 5 speed manual, IMO the manual gives the driver more control and connection to this wonderful to drive car.