I've been driving a Soul Red 2016 6 Touring automatic for almost three years now. My biggest gripes are that I had to replace the belt tensioner about three times (maybe low quality replacement parts?); the paint ... (hood and front bumper) get nicked fairly easily, and the noisy cold starts. A European friend here in the States drove a 2014 manual 6 and did not like/enjoy the transmission. I'm pleased with the auto, but not when I use the manumatic; it is slow to shift. The sport mode likes to hang in there mostly in third gear (my experience). The noise is mostly an issue at all if you compare it to more luxurious cars. I think it is pretty quiet at cruising speeds; you will hear the engine as you are revving up to cruising speed; certainly noisier than my wife's 2015 Accord XLE but only when you are accelerating. My Mazda's handling is superior to the '15 Accord and the Mazda also is/feels much tightly bolstered when going over a bump or rough pavement-love the ride completely, but that is personal taste. Also, I am 6' 1" @ 200 lbs and love the driver's seat comfort and adjustability as well. On the touring, however, the manual lumbar support doesn't stay where I want it, for very long ... not sure that's just my car or what. I'm sure the GT has a motor for that feature. I hope that helps.