Just wanted to (again) raise the point that Hyundai only pairs a manual transmission with the lowest-of-the-low base model. Yes, yes, I realize that the (vast) majority of shoppers in the CUV segment do not want a manual tranny and therefore there isn't much of a business case to be made for offering one. But if you ARE going to do it, why would you bother with only the stripper model (and with a much less suitable 2.0L engine, no less?) Maybe in the old days people who bought manuals did so becauase it was "cheaper", and therefore also wanted the cheapest model (ie base trim) possible. I suspect that today most buyers who want a manual are actual car enthusiasts (or who at least appreciate the interaction between themselves and their automobile), and are willing to spend money for a higher trim level. But I don't want to choose between a MT and all the creature comforts available on other models. If there's no business case for offering a MT on a CUV, then fine - don't offer one (like Toyota, Honda, GM, Nissan, etc). But Hyundai will say "only 1% of Tuscons sold were equipped with MT..." Of course, because no one wants the "L" model! (Not to mention that many dealers won't stock MT vehicles, so they are tough to find). Hyundai/Kia has pulled this MT-on-the-stripper-model-only a number of times, most notably with the Tuscon/Sportage, Sonata/Optima, Sante Fe, and to a lesser extent with the new Elantra (only the Limited trim is auto-only). And they are certainly not the only auto company to do so. Thankfully all trims of the Forte/Elantra Touring can be equipped with a stick - for now. I guess this is just a somewhat off-topic lamentation for a dying breed - SIGH.
