Acura has been listening to enthusiasts' requests for a manual transmission in their sports luxury sedans. It first appeared recently with the TSX and now with the TL. The TL's unit is the same cable-actuated short-throw unit found in the 3.2 CL Type-S 6MT.

Acura introduces the TL's 6MT best: "This compact transmission is about the same size as a comparable 5-speed manual and is substantially lighter than the Sequential SportShift automatic transmission. It features a high-pressure-cast aluminum-alloy transmission housing to save weight. To further reduce weight and size, special narrow, high-strength steel gears are used, and the shafts are hollow. Close ratio spacing helps provide quicker acceleration by keeping engine revs up close to the power peak. Brass multi-cone synchronizers are used on first through fourth gear with a single-cone synchronizer for reverse to reduce shift load and help ensure smooth, precise shifting. A large gear-teeth contact area helps to reduce gear noise. A reverse lockout feature prevents the transmission from accidentally being shifted into reverse while the car is moving forward."

The TL has a self-adjusting clutch unit which should allow the pedal height, feel and effort to remain consistent throughout its service life. The clutch will automatically take up the slack between the pressure plate and clutch disc. It also lowers the release load while maintaining consistent pressure for the diaphragm spring.

A one-way orifice located in the slave cylinder restricts return fluid flow during rapid clutch engagement. This serves to reduce driveline shock and limit the torque load on transmission components by gradually engaging the clutch during rapid clutch engagement. While this smooth engagement is great for around town driving, it'll be at a slight dis-advantage at the drag strip. The TOV will be sure to verify this for you in the future. ;-)

Acura also claims that the "dual-mass flywheel helps to reduce noise, cut down the transfer of engine vibration into the cabin and provide increased comfort during shifting. This unit is divided into two flywheels with a torsion spring and viscous damper sandwiched between the two. This design enhances the durability of the synchronizers, reduces vibration and gear rattle and reduces the shift load."

The 6-speed manual transmission comes with a standard limited slip differential to handle all the power being delivered to the front wheels. Enthusiasts have always preferred a LSD on their cars because it improves traction during acceleration and cornering. Torque is directed to either front wheel with the best traction.

The addition of the 6MT and LSD to the 3.2 CL-S really transformed that car. We're hoping that this ingredient will do the same for the new TL.