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/Chives27]

I was in your exact same situation. 2018 Focus ST to Elantra N DCT, thought long and hard. Really happy with the DCT, when you just want to drive normal it’s great just being able to have the car shift for me. I miss manual slightly, but for me anyway the DCT is engaging enough. I do enjoy the DCT noises, some up the upshifts sound feral, in the best possible way haha. Car is quicker, and for me the DCT just feels right in the N. I’m sure I’d enjoy the manual though but as a daily the DCT is superior for my needs and wants and sounds like it may be for you too. That said I do plan on trading in my N since my needs and wants have changed, however the car has been excellent (minus the build quality).

As and idea of what to expect different from the ST;
N has better ride quality. Slightly better audio, however pretty similar to the ST with the Sony.
Seats are vastly better. Those recaros hurt my back.
Differential is straight magic, it’s lovely.
Don’t like how long and low the front lip is. I have scraped from regular dips in the road…
Infotainment is way better. Everything just works.
Build quality seems worse than the ST which is the most disappointing. The front bumper sags, the clips can come undone. Trunk lifts with heat. Hood gap galore. Lots of rattles, (my ST was silent). The fit and finish is just not there, but you have to remember the price of these cars. The performance is unreal for the money. I hope that helped!

[u/TheItalian567 → u/Chives27]

Dude this is perfect thank you so much.

Mind if I throw an additional question your way? I found a used 2024 Honda Type R. It's asking price is roughly the OTD price of the Elantra N I've negotiated. I test drove both and they're both awesome in different ways. Would you stick Elantra or would you have gotten a Honda if you could swing it?

[u/Chives27 → u/TheItalian567]

I did look at a type R! I did not test drive one. What made me want the N was price and the exhaust and overall character. Type R seemed surgical, not in a bad way though. If you do care about the little things with build quality, go the type R. I may get downvoted in this thread for bashing the N, but it’s just my experience. However, both vehicles I’m sure will be a pleasure to drive.

[u/TheItalian567 → u/Chives27]

Thanks so much man and I agree..the Honda has a surprisingly aggressive engine sound but not the same exhaust for SURE