Does Acura make stick shift cars?
Acura, the luxury vehicle division of Honda, has long been known for producing high-quality, performance-oriented vehicles. For car enthusiasts who enjoy the tactile experience of driving a manual transmission, the question often arises: does Acura still make stick shift cars? Let’s dive into the details to explore Acura’s offerings and their stance on manual transmissions.
The History of Acura and Manual Transmissions
Acura has a rich history of offering manual transmissions in some of its most iconic models. From the sporty Acura Integra of the 1990s to the high-performance Acura NSX, manual transmissions were once a staple in their lineup. These vehicles catered to driving purists who valued the control and engagement that only a stick shift could provide.
However, as the automotive industry has evolved, the demand for manual transmissions has significantly declined. Automatic transmissions have become more advanced, offering quicker shifts, better fuel efficiency, and ease of use, which has led many manufacturers, including Acura, to phase out manual options in favor of automatics.
Current Acura Models and Transmission Options
As of 2025, Acura no longer offers manual transmissions in its current lineup. The brand has shifted its focus to automatic and dual-clutch transmissions, which are now standard across all models. This change reflects the broader industry trend of moving away from manual gearboxes due to declining consumer demand and advancements in automatic transmission technology.
For enthusiasts who still crave the manual driving experience, the last Acura model to feature a stick shift was the Acura ILX, which offered a six-speed manual transmission in its earlier iterations. Unfortunately, this option was discontinued in recent years as Acura streamlined its offerings to cater to a wider audience.
Why Are Manual Transmissions Disappearing?
The decline of manual transmissions can be attributed to several factors:
- Consumer Preferences: Most drivers now prefer the convenience of automatic transmissions, especially in urban areas with heavy traffic.
- Technological Advancements: Modern automatic and dual-clutch transmissions offer superior performance and fuel efficiency compared to traditional manuals.
- Cost and Complexity: Offering both manual and automatic options increases production costs for manufacturers, making it less viable to include manuals in the lineup.
- Driver Assistance Systems: Many advanced safety and driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, are easier to implement with automatic transmissions.
Options for Manual Transmission Enthusiasts
While Acura no longer produces stick shift cars, there are still options for enthusiasts who want to enjoy the manual driving experience:
- Used Acura Models: Consider purchasing a pre-owned Acura model that features a manual transmission, such as the Acura Integra or older versions of the ILX.
- Other Brands: Some manufacturers, like Mazda and Subaru, continue to offer manual transmissions in select models.
- Performance Cars: High-performance vehicles from brands like Porsche and BMW often include manual options for driving purists.
Conclusion
While Acura has moved away from offering manual transmissions in its current lineup, the legacy of its stick shift models lives on in the hearts of enthusiasts. For those who still yearn for the thrill of a manual transmission, exploring used Acura models or considering other brands may be the best way to keep the joy of driving alive.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Acura stop making manual transmission?
In 2015, Acura redesigned the ILX for the 2016 model year. Now solely available with a 2.4L K24V7 engine and 8-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) instead of the 2.0L R20A1 & 5-speed automatic transmission, 2.4L K24Z7 6 speed manual transmission and hybrid electric options.
Why are manual transmissions going away?
The average manual driver is not always so proficient. In getting the gear right, automatics consume less fuel, save money and emit fewer emissions. These are among the reasons why it's ever harder to buy a new manual-transmission model of any kind in many countries.
Is stick shift obsolete?
Those who drive stick are part of a dying breed. The manual transmission, once the only way to change gears, is disappearing as all-wheel-drive SUVs, EVs take over.
Does the Acura TL come in manual?
The Acura TL Type-S received the Acura RL's 3.5-liter J35A8 V6 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. The manual transmission includes a limited-slip differential.
Which car brand has the best manual transmission?
Best Cars with Manual Transmission
- 2025 Ford Mustang. Compare Model. Positives.
- 2025 Toyota GR Corolla. Compare Model. Combined Mileage: 22 - 24 mpg.
- 2025 Acura Integra. Compare Model. Positives.
- 2024 Lotus Emira. Compare Model. Positives.
- 2025 BMW M2. Compare Model. Positives.
- 2024 Subaru WRX. Compare Model.
- 2024 Nissan Z. Compare Model.
Is Acura better than Honda?
The vehicles under this marque are designed with a greater emphasis on performance, luxury features, and a higher level of craftsmanship. Models like the new 2024 Acura TLX and 2024 Acura MDX offer more powerful engines, advanced tech, and refined interiors when compared to their Honda counterparts.
Does Acura have any stick shift cars?
As the only car in its segment with an available 6-speed manual transmission, limited slip-differential and lightweight flywheel, the Integra brings out the enthusiast in everyone. The Integra Type S features a 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine with 320-HP *and close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.
Does TLX come in manual?
Take charge of your direct, sport-tuned ride with a firm steering feel and a heightened drive-by-wire throttle response. Unleash the full power of the TLX in sport mode. Take complete control in manual mode with paddle shifters and experience a more assertive shifting algorithm.
Who is still making stick shift cars?
The Best Cars That Still Offer a Manual Transmission in 2025, Ranked
- 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. View Photos ERIC RYAN ANDERSON.
- 2025 Porsche 718 Cayman. View Photos Greg Pajo.
- 2025 Porsche 718 Boxster. View Photos Porsche.
- 2025 Lotus Emira.
- 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
- 2024 Honda Civic Type R.
- 2025 Toyota GR86.
- 2024 Subaru BRZ.
Is Acura just a fancy Honda?
Acura, on the other hand, is Honda's luxury division. Launched in 1986, Acura was the first Japanese premium car brand. The vehicles under this marque are designed with a greater emphasis on performance, luxury features, and a higher level of craftsmanship.
