Acura to offer six-speed manual on 2010 TL - 09.30.2008
- Article Number: 2
| Most automotive purists believe a car must be offered with a manual transmission option to be considered a ‘true’ sports car, with many of today’s so-called sports sedans failing to meet this qualification. But purists fear not, as at least one sports sedan will be receiving its credentials for 2010.
Acura has announced that’s its all-new TL sedan will be offered with a six-speed manual transmission option for the 2010 model year. The manual transmission option is squarely aimed at performance drives and will be offered in both TL models – the base front-wheel drive car and the up-level SH-AWD model.
While some manual transmissions manage to free up a few extra ponies under the hood, the manually-equipped TLs will retain their 2009 ratings – 280 horsepower for the base car and 305 for the SH-AWD model.
But the six-speed manual should aid in the TL’s overall performance. The six-speed unit actually weighs 110 pounds less than the TL’s five-speed auto – which will soldier on in 2010 – and improves weight distribution from 59/41 front/back to 58/42, according to Motor Authority. Manual transmission cars will also benefit from Acura’s Hill-Assist program and an upgraded suspension with stiffer springs and dampers. The extra cog should also help out with slightly better fuel economy.
No official word on pricing but the 2010 Acura TL should hit dealers in the second part of 2009 with a starting price in the $35,000 neighborhood. |
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