The 2012 Acura TSX offers two transmission options: a 6-speed manual (standard) and a 5-speed automatic (optional).
For the 2012 model year, buyers could choose between a traditional six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift, depending on trim and package. All 2012 TSX models use a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine and are front-wheel drive, with the transmission choice influencing driving feel and fuel economy.
Transmission options
Below are the two transmissions you may encounter on a 2012 TSX:
- 6-speed manual transmission (standard with the 2.4L engine)
- 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift (optional, paddle shifters available on some trims)
In short, the 2012 TSX can be equipped with either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic, depending on purchase options.
How to identify which transmission your TSX has
To determine which transmission your 2012 TSX has, check the gear selector and the vehicle's documentation. A manual will have a traditional H-pattern shifter with gears 1 through 6. An automatic will show the PRNDL positions and may include manual shift mode (Sequential SportShift) via either a shifter gate or paddle shifters, depending on trim. The owner's manual, window sticker, or VIN decoding can confirm the exact transmission originally installed.
Summary
The 2012 Acura TSX was offered with two transmissions — a standard 6-speed manual and an optional 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift — giving buyers a choice between engaging driving and convenient automatic shifting.


