2013 Acura TL SH AWD Manual Review

The 2013 Acura TL SH AWD with manual transmission is a premium sports sedan featuring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, a 3.7L V6 engine producing 305 horsepower, 6-speed manual transmission, advanced torque vectoring system, premium leather interior, and Acura's signature technology package. Below are key sections covering performance, features, driving experience, specifications, and ownership considerations.

1. Performance Overview 2. Exterior Design 3. Interior Features 4. Technical Specifications 5. Driving Dynamics 6. SH-AWD System 7. Manual Transmission Experience 8. Technology Package 9. Ownership Costs 10. Maintenance Schedule 11. Competitor Comparison

Performance Overview

The 2013 TL SH-AWD Manual delivers exceptional performance with its 3.7L V6 engine and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system.

ComponentSpecification
Engine3.7L V6 VTEC
Horsepower305 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque273 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Transmission6-speed manual
0-60 mph5.6 seconds
Top SpeedElectronically limited to 130 mph
Fuel Economy17 city / 25 highway mpg
DrivetrainSuper Handling All-Wheel Drive
Braking4-wheel disc with ABS
SuspensionAmplitude Reactive Dampers

Exterior Design

Aggressive yet sophisticated styling with Acura's signature jewel-eye headlights and bold front grille.

  1. Front fascia: Jewel Eye LED headlights with chrome accents
  2. Body lines: Sculpted profile with character lines
  3. Wheels: 18-inch alloy wheels with performance tires
  4. Dimensions: 194.0" length, 74.0" width, 56.7" height
  5. Weight: 3968 lbs with SH-AWD system

NOTE: The SH-AWD model features unique badging and more aggressive styling elements.

Interior Features

Premium cabin with advanced technology and comfort features.

  1. Seats: Milano premium leather with 10-way power adjustment
  2. Audio: ELS Surround Sound System with 10 speakers
  3. Climate: Dual-zone automatic climate control
  4. Steering: Leather-wrapped with audio and cruise controls
  5. Storage: 13.1 cubic feet trunk space

HIGHLIGHT: The manual transmission model features a sport-oriented interior with aluminum pedals.

Technical Specifications

Driving Dynamics

The SH-AWD system provides exceptional cornering stability and all-weather capability.

Handling: The torque vectoring system sends up to 70% of torque to the rear wheels and can overdrive the outside rear wheel in corners for improved turn-in and stability.

Steering: Vehicle Stability Assist with electric power steering provides precise feedback. Ride Quality: Amplitude Reactive Dampers adjust damping force based on road conditions. Braking: 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake distribution.

SH-AWD System

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive enhances both performance and safety.

  1. Torque vectoring improves cornering performance
  2. 70% rear torque bias during aggressive acceleration
  3. 100% torque transfer capability to individual wheels
  4. Enhanced traction in adverse weather conditions

ADVANTAGE: The system provides sports car-like handling in a luxury sedan package.

Manual Transmission Experience

The 6-speed manual offers engaging driving dynamics and precise control.

  1. Gear ratios optimized for performance driving
  2. Short-throw shifter with positive engagement
  3. Rev-matching downshifts for smooth transitions
  4. Hill start assist prevents rollback on inclines
  5. Sport mode adjusts throttle response and stability control
  6. Paddle shifters not available with manual transmission
  7. Clutch feel: Moderate weight with good feedback
  8. Gear spacing: Well-spaced for both city and highway driving

NOTE: The manual transmission was only available on SH-AWD models and is relatively rare.

Technology Package

Advanced infotainment and safety features standard.

Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, Real-time traffic and weather, ELS Surround Sound System, Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio interface, Multi-view rear camera, AcuraLink satellite communication.

Ownership Costs

Premium vehicle with corresponding maintenance and operating costs.

FUEL: Premium recommended for optimal performance. INSURANCE: Moderate to high rates due to performance nature. DEPRECIATION: Holds value better than many competitors.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow Acura's recommended maintenance for optimal performance.

IntervalService RequiredEstimated Cost
7,500 milesOil change, tire rotation$85-120
15,000 milesOil change, cabin/engine air filters$150-200
30,000 milesMajor service including fluid changes$400-600
60,000 milesComprehensive service with spark plugs$800-1200
100,000 milesTiming belt and major component inspection$1200-1800

RECOMMENDATION: Use Acura-certified technicians for complex systems like SH-AWD.

Competitor Comparison

CompetitorAdvantagesDisadvantages
BMW 335i xDriveMore powerful engine, premium brand cachetHigher maintenance costs, less reliable
Audi A4 QuattroInterior quality, technology featuresLess powerful, higher ownership costs
Infiniti G37xSimilar performance, lower priceLess sophisticated AWD system
Lexus IS 350 AWDReliability, refinementNo manual transmission option
Cadillac CTS AWDAmerican luxury, strong V6Less refined transmission

VERDICT: The 2013 Acura TL SH-AWD Manual offers unique combination of performance, luxury, and reliability in its class.

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