US, not hit 30 yet and prefer it since it keeps me engaged with the act of driving and my mind doesn't wander and risk spacing out.
Also since I can't afford something with a 9 speed transmission to try out, a manual 5 gets me more milage than the auto counterparts.
Manual focus go brrr
The engagement with the act of driving is my biggest reason for sticking with stick. You have to pre-act with intention for every single thing you're approaching using all 4 limbs.
I also must have at least AWD in my area with snow and hills and sand and mud. So manual impreza still go brrr