What transmission is in the Acura TL?
Most Acura TLs use a 5-speed automatic transmission. The notable exception is the TL Type-S, which from 2004 through 2008 used a 6-speed manual gearbox. Transmissions vary by generation and trim.
TL Transmissions Through the Years
The following breakdown explains how the gearbox configurations changed across generations and trims.
First and Second Generations TL (1995–2003)
In the early TLs, Acura offered automatic transmissions as the standard setup, with no factory manual option available for these generations.
Transmissions by year/trim:
- 1995–1998 TL: 4-speed automatic
- 1999–2003 TL: 4-speed automatic
Conclusion: Early TLs were automatic-only in factory configurations.
Third Generation TL and Type-S (2004–2008)
When the TL entered its third generation, the lineup split between the base model and the high-performance Type-S. The base model stuck with an automatic, while the Type-S moved to a manual gearbox.
Transmissions by trim:
- Base TL: 5-speed automatic
- TL Type-S: 6-speed manual
Conclusion: The Type-S introduced Acura's 6-speed manual into the TL family, while the base model remained automatic.
Fourth Generation TL (2009–2014)
The 2009 refresh continued with the TL using an automatic transmission across all trims, featuring manual shift modes but no manual gearbox option.
Transmissions by trim:
- 2009–2014 TL: 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Conclusion: By this generation, all TLs used a 5-speed automatic.
Summary
In short, the Acura TL line primarily used a 5-speed automatic transmission, with the notable exception of the TL Type-S (2004–2008), which used a 6-speed manual. If you are evaluating a used TL, check the specific model year and trim to confirm the exact gearbox, as early years and certain special editions may differ from the standard pattern.
Which Acura has a CVT transmission?
Acura models that use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) include the Integra and the MDX. While the Integra comes standard with a CVT (in certain trims), other models like the MDX often have it as an option or are available with other transmission types.
This video shows a review of the 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec with a CVT transmission: 24sHawkeye RidesYouTube · Dec 17, 2022
- Integra: The Integra's standard engine is paired with a CVT, which is also available on A-Spec trims. The manual transmission is an option on some trims.
- MDX: The MDX is an example of an Acura SUV that has used a CVT transmission.
- RDX: The RDX is another model that offers a CVT, with some models pairing the CVT with a 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo engine.
- TLX: The TLX uses a 10-speed automatic transmission, not a CVT.
This video explains the differences between the 2025 Acura TLX A-Spec and a BMW: 59sRaiti's RidesYouTube · May 14, 2025
What type of transmission does a 2010 Acura TL have?
The standard transmission in the TL is a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with a straight-gate style console-mounted shifter. For more spirited driving, a racing-inspired steering wheel paddle shifter system is standard and works when the transmission is in "Drive" or "Sport".
Does the Acura TL have transmission problems?
The Most Common Acura Transmission Problems
Acura transmissions, particularly in the TL and EL models, may exhibit specific problems: Transmission Slipping: This is often caused by worn clutch packs, low transmission fluid, or a faulty solenoid.
What transmission does the Acura TL have?
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.
