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Did the Acura TL Type S come in manual?

The Acura TL Type S was marketed as a performance-oriented variant of the TL, and a manual transmission was part of its core appeal. In short: yes, it was offered with a manual gearbox throughout its US run, and there was no factory automatic option for the Type S.


Model history


The TL Type S appeared as the higher-performance version of the TL during the second generation, beginning with the 2004 model year in the United States and continuing through 2008. It integrated a 3.2-liter V6 producing roughly 260 horsepower with a six-speed manual transmission, emphasizing driver engagement over convenience. Across its production span, the Type S retained a manual setup, distinguishing it from the base TL line, which offered automatic options in many years.


Transmission specifics


Below are the core facts about how the Type S was equipped with a manual transmission during its production years. The list highlights the key points drivers considered when evaluating the model’s gearbox.



  • The TL Type S used a six-speed manual transmission across its production years in the US (roughly 2004–2008).

  • There was no factory automatic option offered for the Type S; manual control was a defining feature of the model.


For enthusiasts, the manual gearbox was often cited as a primary reason to seek out a TL Type S, contributing to a more connected, sporty driving experience and aligning with the model’s performance-focused philosophy.


Context for shoppers and collectors


When comparing trims, remember that the base TL line commonly offered automatic transmissions, whereas the Type S concentrated on a manual setup to deliver its sportier character. This distinction remains a key factor for buyers and collectors evaluating the TL lineup.


Summary


In summary, the Acura TL Type S was available with a manual transmission as standard and there was no factory automatic option for this variant. If you’re pursuing a Type S specifically for a manual driving experience, you’ll find that the model’s manual gearbox is a consistently defining trait across its production years. For those seeking an automatic, you would generally look to the base TL rather than the Type S.

Is the Acura TL type S only manual?


The Acura TL Type-S received the Acura RL's 3.5-liter J35A8 V6 gasoline engine tuned to 286 horsepower (213 kW) and 256 lb-ft of torque with either a 5-speed automatic with F1 style paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual transmission.



How many manual Acura TL type s were made?


The numbers from back in the day of the AcuraZine forum was that around 18,500 total Type-S were made across 07-08, with 10% - 15% of them being equipped with a manual transmission . Say 2,750 manual Type-S were made.



Did the TL type S come in automatic?


And the TL Type S this is just something that for the 2007. Model year the TL's.



Does the type S only come in manual?


The Type S, which is based on the Honda Civic Type R and is also manual-only, makes an impressive 320 horsepower from its 2.0-liter turbo-four. And although it's pricey at more than $50,000 to start, the Integra Type S offers one of the best manual driving experiences out there.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.