Acura Adds Performance-Oriented Manual Transmission Model to 2010 TL Lineup

All-New 6-Speed Manual Available on 2010 TL SH-AWD Technology Package

TORONTO , Sept. 29 /CNW/ - Acura takes performance to the next level 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 TL SH-AWD Technology Package with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission will be on sale across Canada as of the beginning of October.

"The new six-speed manual transmission, available on the TL SH-AWD Technology Package, allows the enthusiast driver to take full advantage of the performance of Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system," said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president of Honda Canada Inc. "Not only is the new six-speed manual transmission model the best performing Acura TL ever, it is among the top handling performers in its class."

The availability of a 6-speed manual transmission for the 2010 TL SH-AWD(R) represents the first time Acura has ever paired its acclaimed Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) system with a manual gearbox. In addition, the new close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is about 50 kg (110 lbs.) 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-horsepower TL paired with Acura's exclusive SH-AWD(R).

Both TL models are available with an available Technology Package which adds Acura's satellite navigation system with trilingual voice recognition; rearview camera with on-screen display guidelines; a 10-speaker, 440-watt premium sound system with DVD-Audio and MP3/Windows Media(R) audio compatibility; GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone, dual-mode automatic climate control system; hard disk drive (HDD) storage (navigation and audio); keyless access system with (smart entry and push-button start) with driver recognition for driver's seat, side mirrors, climate control and select audio and Navi settings; perforated, Premium Milano leather-trimmed interior; and rear decklid spoiler with an integrated rearview camera.

With optimized suspension, two performance transmission choices, plus an available Technology Package featuring a comprehensive array of navigation and communication features, the 2010 Acura TL is designed to offer more appeal than ever before. The fourth-generation TL is the most technologically advanced sedan in Acura's history.

    
    The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices for 2010 Acura TL trims are:

    $39,990 - TL (2WD)
    $43,490 - TL Technology Package (2WD)
    $44,990 - TL SH-AWD
    $48,490 - TL SH-AWD Technology Package (5AT)
    $48,490 - TL SH-AWD Technology Package (6MT)
    

Acura, the luxury-performance division of Honda Canada Inc., offers a full line of advanced performance luxury vehicles through its network of 48 dealers in Canada . The 2010 Acura lineup features seven distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the Canadian-exclusive CSX compact sports sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV, and the MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and the all-new ZDX four-door sports coupe, both made in Canada .

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For further information: Richard Jacobs, [phone]