The Acura TL Type S with manual transmission is a premium sports sedan featuring a 3.5L V6 engine producing 286 horsepower, 6-speed manual gearbox, sport-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and luxury amenities. This review covers performance, features, driving dynamics, specifications, and ownership experience of this sought-after Japanese luxury sports sedan.
The TL Type S delivers exceptional performance with its 3.5L J-series V6 engine, providing smooth power delivery and responsive throttle response throughout the rev range.
| Performance Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6 VTEC producing 286 hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Torque | 256 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 seconds |
| Quarter Mile | 14.1 seconds @ 101 mph |
| Top Speed | Electronically limited to 130 mph |
| Power-to-Weight | 12.1 lb/hp |
| Redline | 6800 rpm |
| VTEC Engagement | 4800 rpm |
| Exhaust Note | Aggressive but refined under acceleration |
| Throttle Response | Immediate with drive-by-wire system |
Distinctive styling with Type S-specific elements that set it apart from standard TL models.
DESIGN NOTE: The TL Type S maintains Acura's signature styling while adding sportier elements that enhance both aesthetics and aerodynamics.
Luxurious cabin with sport-oriented appointments and advanced technology for its era.
COMFORT: Excellent balance of sporty feel and luxury comfort with supportive seating and premium materials throughout.
Exceptional handling characteristics with precise steering and balanced chassis dynamics.
Steering: Variable power-assisted rack-and-pinion with excellent feedback and weighting. Suspension: Firm but compliant, providing confident cornering without sacrificing ride quality. Chassis: Rigid platform with minimal body roll and predictable behavior at limits. Stability Control: VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) can be partially disabled for more spirited driving.
The 6-speed manual transmission is a highlight, offering precise shifts and well-chosen gear ratios.
GEAR RATIOS: 1st: 3.266, 2nd: 1.888, 3rd: 1.330, 4th: 1.034, 5th: 0.788, 6th: 0.645, Final Drive: 4.438
High-performance braking system with Brembo components providing exceptional stopping power.
| Brake Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front Brakes | Brembo 4-piston calipers, 12.6" ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Single-piston calipers, 12.0" ventilated discs |
| ABS | 4-channel with Electronic Brake Distribution |
| Brake Assist | Emergency braking assistance system |
| 60-0 mph Stopping | 112 feet |
PERFORMANCE: Excellent brake feel with progressive pedal and minimal fade during repeated hard stops.
Respectable fuel efficiency considering the performance capabilities.
NOTE: Fuel economy varies significantly with driving style - aggressive driving can reduce mileage substantially.
Proven Honda/Acura reliability with some specific maintenance considerations.
RELIABILITY: Excellent long-term reliability with proper maintenance. Common issues include power steering pump whine and occasional VSA module failures.
Reasonable ownership costs for a luxury sports sedan.
| Cost Category | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Insurance | Moderate to high due to performance classification |
| Annual Maintenance | $400-600 for routine service |
| Tires | $800-1,200 for set of performance tires |
| Timing Belt Service | $900-1,200 at dealer |
| Depreciation | Good value retention for manual models |
VALUE: Manual transmission models command premium prices on used market due to rarity and enthusiast demand.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Excellent 6-speed manual transmission | Front-wheel drive limitations |
| Strong, smooth V6 power | Some torque steer under hard acceleration |
| High-quality interior materials | Polarizing exterior styling |
| Superb Brembo braking system | Premium fuel requirement |
| Good reliability and build quality | Limited rear seat room |
| Comfortable yet sporty ride | Heavy curb weight |
| Good feature content for era | Average fuel economy |
VERDICT: The Acura TL Type S manual represents one of the best modern manual transmission luxury sports sedans, offering compelling performance, luxury, and driving engagement.