2013 Acura TL Manual Transmission Review

The 2013 Acura TL with manual transmission offers a compelling blend of luxury and performance. Available exclusively on the V6-powered SH-AWD model, this 6-speed manual provides enthusiasts with an engaging driving experience while maintaining Acura's signature refinement. Below are key sections covering performance, features, driving dynamics, specifications, and ownership considerations.

1. Performance Overview 2. Transmission Features 3. Driving Experience 4. Technical Specifications 5. Interior & Technology 6. SH-AWD System 7. Fuel Economy 8. Maintenance Considerations 9. Ownership Costs 10. Comparison with Automatic 11. Common Questions

Performance Overview

The 2013 Acura TL manual transmission is paired with a 3.7L V6 engine producing 305 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, delivering power through Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system.

Performance Aspect	Description
0-60 mph Acceleration	5.6 seconds
Quarter Mile	14.1 seconds @ 101 mph
Top Speed	Electronically limited to 130 mph
Engine Redline	7,000 RPM
Transmission Type	6-speed manual with short-throw shifter
Final Drive Ratio	4.437:1

Transmission Features

The TL's 6-speed manual transmission includes several performance-oriented features that enhance the driving experience.

Short-throw shifter: Reduced shift throws for quicker gear changes
Rev-matching: Automatic throttle blip on downshifts for smoother transitions
Hill start assist: Prevents rollback on inclines
Heavy-duty clutch: Designed to handle the V6's torque output
Aluminum shift knob: Weighted for improved shift feel

NOTE: Manual transmission only available on SH-AWD models with Technology Package.

Driving Experience

The manual transmission transforms the TL from a comfortable cruiser to an engaging sports sedan.

Shift Feel: Precise with positive engagement, though some reviewers note notchiness when cold
Clutch Action: Moderate weight with good feedback and predictable engagement point
Gear Ratios: Well-spaced for both city driving and highway cruising
Engine Response: Linear power delivery with strong pull to redline
Exhaust Note: Sporty but refined, with noticeable V6 growl under acceleration

Technical Specifications

Engine: 3.7L V6 SOHC with VTEC
Horsepower: 305 hp @ 6,200 RPM
Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Drivetrain: SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive)
Curb Weight: 3,968 lbs
Weight Distribution: 58% front / 42% rear
Suspension: Amplitude Reactive Dampers
Brakes: 4-wheel disc with ABS, 12.6" front, 13.1" rear

Interior & Technology

The manual transmission model includes all premium features of the automatic version.

Feature	Description
Seating	Leather-trimmed sport seats with 10-way power adjustment
Audio System	ELS Surround Sound with 10 speakers and DVD-Audio
Navigation	Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition
Climate Control	Dual-zone automatic climate control
Steering Wheel	Leather-wrapped with audio and cruise controls
Instrument Cluster	White LED illumination with gear position indicator

SH-AWD System

The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system works seamlessly with the manual transmission.

Torque vectoring: Sends up to 100% of rear torque to either rear wheel
Cornering enhancement: Improves turn-in and mid-corner stability
All-weather capability: Enhanced traction in adverse conditions
Performance focus: Optimized for dry pavement handling rather than off-road use

Advantage: The SH-AWD system helps manage the V6's torque, reducing torque steer common in front-wheel drive performance sedans.

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel economy ratings for the manual transmission model:

City: 17 mpg
Highway: 25 mpg
Combined: 20 mpg
Fuel Tank: 18.5 gallons
Range: Approximately 370 miles

Note: Fuel economy is slightly lower than the automatic version due to different final drive ratio and AWD system calibration.

Maintenance Considerations

Manual transmission requires specific maintenance attention.

Clutch lifespan: Typically 60,000-100,000 miles with normal use
Transmission fluid: Change every 30,000 miles using Honda MTF
Clutch fluid: Part of brake fluid system, change every 3 years
Shift linkage: Periodic inspection and lubrication
Clutch master/slave cylinders: Watch for leaks and proper operation

WARNING! Aggressive driving and frequent hard launches will significantly reduce clutch life.

Ownership Costs

Long-term ownership considerations for the manual transmission TL.

Cost Category	Estimate
New Price (2013)	$43,400
Current Value (2024)	$15,000-$20,000
Clutch Replacement	$1,200-$1,800
Annual Insurance	$1,200-$1,600
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,200 (15,000 miles)

Comparison with Automatic

Key differences between manual and automatic transmission models:

Performance: Manual is 0.2 seconds quicker 0-60
Fuel Economy: Automatic gets 1-2 mpg better in all categories
Availability: Manual only available on SH-AWD models
Resale Value: Manual models command $2,000-$3,000 premium
Driving Engagement: Manual offers more connected driving experience
Daily Driving: Automatic more convenient in heavy traffic

Common Questions

Question	Answer
Is the manual transmission smooth?	Yes, though some notchiness when cold; improves with warm-up
How rare is the manual version?	Approximately 5% of 2013 TL production had manual transmission
Does it have cruise control?	Yes, fully functional with manual transmission
Can you disable stability control?	Partial disable only; full defeat not available
Is the shifter height adjustable?	No, fixed position with optional aftermarket short-shifter kits
Warranty coverage?	Same 4-year/50,000-mile warranty as automatic models

Final Verdict: The 2013 Acura TL manual transmission offers a rare combination of luxury, performance, and engagement in a segment dominated by automatics.