I've been looking forward to this review and the model you're driving is outfitted exactly the way I would buy it, even with the 5-speed manual. While the 6-speed auto is surely a marvel of engineering at this price point, I prefer the driver engagement of the manual tranny, I feel like I'm getting more out of the motor by controlling the revs and torque delivery, not to mention shaving $1,400 off the MSRP in an economy car is a considerable savings.
Looking forward to comments on smoothness (as this always a challenge in sub-compacts) and operation of the transmission. Driving a Protege5 now is a joy to toss around corners, but it lacks refinement. I'm hoping the Fiesta will have the same tossable feel but bring down the NVH a little bit.