Anyone here driving the 1.8 manual Inspira? Care to share your thoughts/opinions on it?

I've test driven the 1.8 CVT model, which leaves a positive impression to me - very smooth and quiet (compared to my 3 year old Persona - harsh engine, rattles everywhere)

Just wondering if the manual Inspira is as smooth as the CVT model and at least as engaging to drive as my current Persona.