Acura TL AWD Manual Review

The Acura TL with all-wheel drive and manual transmission is a premium sports sedan that combines luxury, performance, and driving engagement. This review covers the vehicle's performance characteristics, driving dynamics, interior features, technology, and overall ownership experience for the manual AWD variant.

1. Performance Overview 2. Driving Dynamics 3. Interior & Comfort 4. Technology Features 5. Specifications 6. Manual Transmission Details 7. AWD System Performance 8. Fuel Efficiency 9. Maintenance & Reliability 10. Pros & Cons 11. Final Verdict

Performance Overview

The Acura TL AWD Manual delivers impressive 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
Drivetrain	Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
0-60 mph	5.6 seconds
Top Speed	Electronically limited to 130 mph

Driving Dynamics

The manual transmission combined with SH-AWD creates an engaging driving experience with excellent traction and handling.

Shifting Feel: Precise, short-throw shifter with positive engagement
Clutch: Light to moderate pedal effort with good feedback
Steering: Electric power steering with variable assist
Braking: Ventilated discs with ABS and electronic brake distribution
Suspension: Independent double-wishbone front, multi-link rear

NOTE: The SH-AWD system provides torque vectoring for improved cornering stability.

Interior & Comfort

Premium interior with driver-focused cockpit and high-quality materials throughout.

Seating: Leather-trimmed sport seats with 10-way power adjustment
Space: Accommodates 5 adults with generous legroom
Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control system
Noise: Active noise cancellation for quiet cabin
Cargo: 13.1 cubic feet trunk space

HIGHLIGHT: Excellent build quality with soft-touch materials and precise fitment.

Technology Features

Audio System: ELS Studio Premium Audio with 10 speakers
Navigation: Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition
Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB, auxiliary input
Safety: AcuraWatch suite with collision mitigation
Displays: Multi-Information Display and central touchscreen
Convenience: Keyless access with push-button start

Specifications

Dimensions: 194″ L x 75″ W x 57″ H
Wheelbase: 109.3 inches
Curb Weight: 3,968 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 18.5 gallons
Tires: 245/40R19 all-season performance
Brakes: 12.6″ front, 13.1″ rear ventilated discs
Suspension: Amplitude Reactive Dampers

Manual Transmission Details

The 6-speed manual transmission offers crisp shifts and excellent driver engagement.

Gear	Ratio	MPH per 1000 RPM
1st	3.266	5.8 mph
2nd	1.888	10.0 mph
3rd	1.321	14.3 mph
4th	1.034	18.3 mph
5th	0.825	22.9 mph
6th	0.657	28.8 mph
Reverse	3.583	-
Final Drive	4.438	-

FEATURE: Rev-matching technology for smoother downshifts.

AWD System Performance

Super Handling All-Wheel Drive provides exceptional traction and cornering capability.

Torque Distribution: Up to 70% to rear wheels, 100% to either rear wheel
Cornering: Overdrive to outside rear wheel for improved turn-in
Traction: Excellent grip in wet and snowy conditions
Stability: Enhanced control during aggressive driving

ADVANTAGE: Superior handling compared to front-wheel drive competitors.

Fuel Efficiency

Respectable fuel economy for a performance-oriented V6 sedan.

Condition	MPG
City	18 mpg
Highway	26 mpg
Combined	21 mpg
Range	389 miles

NOTE: Premium fuel recommended for optimal performance.

Maintenance & Reliability

Acura's reputation for reliability extends to the TL AWD Manual variant.

Warranty: 4-year/50,000-mile basic, 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain
Service Intervals: 7,500-mile oil changes, 30,000-mile major service
Common Issues: Minimal; occasional Bluetooth connectivity concerns
Longevity: Well-built with proven mechanical components

RELIABILITY: Excellent long-term reliability with proper maintenance.

Pros & Cons

Pros	Cons
Engaging manual transmission	Heavy curb weight affects agility
Excellent SH-AWD system	Fuel economy could be better
Powerful V6 engine	Premium fuel requirement
High-quality interior	Complex infotainment interface
Strong reliability record	Limited rear visibility
Comprehensive feature set	Firm ride on rough roads

Final Verdict

The Acura TL AWD Manual represents one of the last true sports sedans with three pedals. It successfully blends luxury, performance, and practicality in a package that appeals to driving enthusiasts who need all-weather capability.

RATING: 8.5/10 - Excellent choice for those seeking a manual transmission luxury sedan with all-wheel drive.

RECOMMENDATION: Ideal for driving enthusiasts in climates with varied weather conditions who appreciate the engagement of a manual transmission without sacrificing luxury amenities.