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What transmission is in the Acura CL?

The Acura CL, a luxury coupe produced by Honda's premium brand, is equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This transmission provides smooth and efficient power delivery, allowing the CL to deliver a comfortable and responsive driving experience.


Overview of the Acura CL Transmission


The Acura CL, available from 1997 to 2003, was offered with a 5-speed automatic transmission as the standard option. This transmission was designed to provide a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it well-suited for the CL's intended use as a premium, sporty coupe.


Key Features of the Acura CL Transmission



  • 5-Speed Automatic: The CL's transmission features five forward gears, allowing for optimal gear selection based on driving conditions and engine speed. This helps to maximize acceleration and fuel economy.

  • Smooth Shifting: The transmission is engineered to provide seamless, responsive gear changes, contributing to the CL's refined and comfortable driving dynamics.

  • Adaptive Shift Control: The transmission's control module monitors driving conditions and adjusts shift points accordingly, further enhancing the driving experience.


The Acura CL's 5-speed automatic transmission is a key component that helps deliver the vehicle's signature blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury. Its well-engineered design and advanced features make it a reliable and capable powertrain for this premium coupe.

Why did Acura discontinue the CL?


The Acura CL was discontinued after the 2003 model year. The coupe market was shrinking in favor of larger SUVs and crossovers, and Acura decided to shift its focus to other vehicle segments. The TL sedan, which shared some similarities with the CL, continued to be a part of Acura's lineup.



Are acuras known for transmission problems?


Gear slippage is a common complaint among Acura drivers. This appears to be especially common in stop-and-go traffic and in cold weather, of which we get plenty in Canada. Faulty torque converters are also a relatively common issue. The Acura TLX's dual-clutch transmission is perhaps the worst offender.



Do Acuras use a CVT transmission?


Many new Acura models have a CVT, or continuously variable transmission, option available. CVTs can offer improved acceleration and enhanced fuel economy. A CVT is actually a type of automatic transmission.



How do you tell if it's a CVT transmission?


To identify a continuously variable transmission, look for a gear selector that does not have set gear positions. Instead, it may have a series of letters or numbers that indicate the vehicle's driving mode.



What does CL mean in Acura?


The Acura CL is a model of automobile manufactured by Honda's Acura brand from 1997–1999, and from 2001–2003. The CL is often thought to have been a replacement for the Acura Legend coupe.



What is the difference between Acura CL and CL Type S?


While the regular CL featured a 225 hp (168 kW) V6, the Type-S boasted a 260 hp (194 kW) V6 with 17-inch wheels, a firmer suspension, slightly larger brakes, and firmer seats. At the time, the Type-S was the most powerful front-wheel drive vehicle Honda had ever manufactured.



Does Acura CL have VTEC?


The CL, however, was never produced as a 2000 model and instead in March 2000 the completely redesigned Acura CL was released as a 2001 model featuring a 3.2 L SOHC VTEC J-series V6.



Are Acuras reliable after 100K miles?


Acuras remain reliable after 100,000 miles because of high-quality engineering, provided regular maintenance is done.



Why Acura over 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.



How many miles do Acura CL last?


MotorAsk.com – “Acuras can last anywhere from 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. According to Acura owners, some of the brand's vehicles can even last 400,000 miles or more in ideal conditions and with a responsible owner…


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.