2010 Acura TL SH-AWD Manual Review

The 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD with manual transmission is a luxury sports sedan featuring Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system, 3.7L V6 engine producing 305 horsepower, 6-speed manual gearbox, premium leather interior, advanced audio system, and sport-tuned suspension. Below are key sections covering performance, features, driving experience, specifications, and overall assessment.

1. Performance Overview 2. Exterior Design 3. Interior Features 4. Technical Specifications 5. Driving Dynamics 6. SH-AWD System 7. Manual Transmission Experience 8. Fuel Economy 9. Safety Features 10. Pros and Cons 11. Final Verdict

Performance Overview

The 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD manual delivers exceptional performance with its 3.7L V6 engine and sophisticated all-wheel drive system.

Component	Specification
Engine	3.7L V6 VTEC
Horsepower	305 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque	273 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission	6-speed manual
0-60 mph	5.6 seconds
Top Speed	Electronically limited to 130 mph
Drivetrain	Super Handling All-Wheel Drive
Braking	4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
Suspension	Sport-tuned with amplitude reactive dampers

Exterior Design

Bold and aggressive styling with premium finishes and aerodynamic enhancements.

Front fascia: Chrome beak grille with HID headlights
Body lines: Sculpted profile with character lines
Wheels: 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires
Lighting: LED taillights and fog lights
Dimensions: 195.7 inches length, 74.0 inches width

Design Note: Polarizing styling that stands out in the luxury sedan segment.

Interior Features

Luxury appointments with advanced technology and comfort amenities.

Seating: Premium leather with 10-way power adjustment
Audio: ELS Surround Sound System with 10 speakers
Climate: Dual-zone automatic climate control
Technology: Navigation system with voice recognition
Comfort: Heated front seats and power moonroof

Premium Feature: Hand-stitched leather dashboard and real aluminum trim.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 3.7L SOHC V6 VTEC
Displacement: 3664 cc
Compression Ratio: 11.2:1
Fuel System: Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
Drivetrain: SH-AWD with torque vectoring
Transmission: 6-speed manual with short-throw shifter
Curb Weight: 3968 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 18.5 gallons

Driving Dynamics

Exceptional handling characteristics with precise steering and balanced chassis.

Steering: Vehicle Stability Assist with electric power steering. Suspension: Independent front and multi-link rear with amplitude reactive dampers.

Handling: Neutral balance with minimal understeer. Ride Quality: Firm but compliant, excellent road feedback. Braking: Confident stopping power with good pedal feel.

SH-AWD System

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive provides superior traction and cornering performance.

Torque vectoring: Sends up to 100% of rear torque to outside wheel
Cornering enhancement: Reduces understeer in aggressive turns
Traction control: Excellent grip in wet and dry conditions
Electronic control: Continuously monitors driving conditions

Performance Benefit: Exceptional cornering stability and all-weather capability.

Manual Transmission Experience

The 6-speed manual offers engaging driving dynamics with precise shift action.

Shift feel: Crisp and direct with short throws
Clutch: Light pedal effort with good engagement point
Gear ratios: Well-spaced for both city and highway driving
Rev-matching: Smooth downshifts with proper technique
Hill start: Requires careful clutch control on inclines

Driving Note: One of the last true manual transmissions in the luxury segment.

Fuel Economy

Reasonable efficiency for a performance-oriented luxury sedan.

Driving Condition	MPG Rating
City	17 mpg
Highway	25 mpg
Combined	20 mpg
Premium Fuel	Required (91 octane)

Fuel Note: Premium fuel requirement adds to operating costs.

Safety Features

Comprehensive safety systems with top crash test ratings.

Airbags: Front, side, and side curtain airbags
Stability: Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control
Braking: Anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution
Structure: Advanced Compatibility Engineering body
Ratings: 5-star NHTSA frontal and side impact

Pros and Cons

Advantages	Disadvantages
Exceptional handling with SH-AWD	Polarizing exterior styling
Powerful and smooth V6 engine	Premium fuel requirement
Engaging manual transmission	Heavy curb weight
High-quality interior materials	Firm ride quality
Advanced audio and tech features	Limited rear seat room

Final Verdict

The 2010 Acura TL SH-AWD manual represents a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts seeking luxury and performance. While the exterior styling remains controversial, the driving experience is exceptional. The combination of 305 horsepower, sophisticated all-wheel drive, and precise manual transmission creates a sedan that's both practical and thrilling to drive.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Recommendation: Highly recommended for drivers who value engagement and all-weather capability in a luxury package.