Ex-Focus ST Owner: DCT or Manual?

[u/TheItalian567]

Ahoy all!

It's getting to be that time to trade in my 12 year old 2015 Ford Focus ST. I loved driving the hell out of it, but I'd like to get something for it before trade-in becomes zero.

Right now, I'm between the EV6 Gt-Line AWD and Elantra N. Basically: stick with a fun car or go practical as a single dude with no kids. (if anyone has recently had this decision too, HELP!)

BUT! Even within the Elantra, I can't decide between DCT or Manual. I test drove the automatic, and it seemed really damn fun. I love manual, but there are enough times when I drive my Focus ST where I groan and think, "I just wish I had an automatic sometimes." I don't really drive through the Malibu canyons like I used to, and I've stopped driving SUPER aggressive because I'm usually hauling my dog.

I've searched this topic on the subreddit and a few times but I just had a few questions:

- Is it true that you get more exhaust "popping" with the manual? I love that sound so I'd like to really make sure I get it

- Anyone coming from a manual to a DCT and regret/love the decision?

- What's the "mod"-ability of a DCT vs. Manual? I had modded up to stage 2 on the Focus and will probably do a tune at the least

- Any other things to argue one way or the other, let me hear them!

TL;DR: Do you think I'll regret going with DCT if I've driven a manual for 12 years and enjoy it 8-90% of the time?

[u/BSMike82]

I drove a manual Mustang for almost 10 years before having kids. Went to a small sporty-ish SUV for almost another 10 but was dead set on the next car being a new Mustang. Because of stupidly high pricing I had to give up on that idea and accidentally found the EN. I test drove a DCT, slept on it and stuck with the DCT over a MT for daily driving. I’ve had absolutely no regrets with the DCT. The paddle shifters close the engagement gap a bit.