Manual an option for 2010 Acura TL

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By THE WASHINGTON TIMES

Torrance, Calif. | Acura takes performance to the next level and aims straight at the heart of the enthusiast driver with the addition of a manual transmission model to the TL lineup for the 2010 model year. Along with the luxurious TL and sporty TL SH-AWD, the 2010 TL lineup is the most diverse in the vehicle's history, further broadening its appeal among luxury performance sedan buyers.

"The new manual transmission equipped TL SH-AWD allows the enthusiast driver to take full advantage of the performance of Acura's SH-AWD system," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "Not only is the new six-speed manual transmission model the best performing Acura TL ever, it is the top handling performer among every vehicle in its class."

The availability of a six-speed manual transmission for the 2010 TL SH-AWD represents the first time Acura has ever paired its acclaimed Super Handling All Wheel Drive system with a manual gearbox. In addition, the new close-ratio six-speed manual transmission is approximately 110 pounds lighter than the Sequential SportShift automatic transmission to further benefit the TL's acceleration, braking and cornering.

For 2010, two distinct versions of Acura's performance luxury sedan will be offered: a luxurious 280 horsepower, front-wheel drive TL, and a powerful 305 hp TL paired with Acura's exclusive SH-AWD. Each model is available with an available technology package which adds navigation, extensive electronics and a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround premium audio system.

In addition to the powertrain and technology choices, TL buyers can further customize their performance luxury sedan with tire and wheel upgrades. For 2010, the standard TL is now available with an 18-inch diameter aluminum wheels with all-season tires, giving the TL a more aggressive, sporty appearance. Additionally, the TL SH-AWD (both manual and automatic transmission models) is available with a 19x8-inch 10-spoke aluminum alloy wheel with summer spec high performance tires to further add to the sedans performance capabilities.

With optimized suspension, two performance transmission choices, plus an available Technology Package featuring a comprehensive array of navigation and communication aids, the 2010 TL offers more appeal than ever before. Along with an available Acura/ELS Surround premium 10-speaker surround sound system, the fourth-generation TL is the most technologically advanced sedan in Acura's history.

The combination of dramatic styling, exhilarating performance and an extensive array of electronics (including AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather with radar image maps) ensures Acura's best selling sedan will appeal to a sophisticated, technology-savvy audience.

Powertrain

A choice of two different all-aluminum VTEC engines enables the 2010 TL to satisfy a wide range of customers. Standard is a 3.5-liter V-6 producing 280 horsepower and 254 lb.-ft. of torque that sends power to the front wheels through Acura's sophisticated Sequential SportShift five-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Though powerful, the 3.5L engine is also fuel efficient, with EPA fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The engine meets California's tough CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification standards, thanks to features including a Drive-by-Wire throttle system, Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) and Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) for the intake valves.