This may be hard to explain, but here goes. When I let off the throttle and depress the clutch, it feels like the engine is still getting throttle. In other words, I feel some resistance when I depress the clutch, almost like I hadn't completely backed off the throttle. The issue is pronounced if I shift from a relatively high (3000-4000 RPM) engine speed, and it sometimes leads to awkward clutch disengagement. Is this a side effect of the drive-by-wire system?

If I need to be more specific, or if this makes no sense, let me know. FYI, I've been driving cars with manual transmissions for about 10 years.

 

What it sounds like to me that you're trying to describe is called "throttle hang". It's not at all uncommon with modern smoggers (LEV or ULEV). But it's a pain in the butt. What happens is manufacturers deliberately do this to burn off any fuel which may have puddled in the intake manifold in order to stay EPA-clean (keep the silly feds happy).

My TL, which is a manual, loses RPMs more slowly than my former 2002 Altima SE, but it's not bad and hasn't caused any problems yet. And if I am getting into it and having to shift more quickly, I haven't found it to cause any concerns yet, either.

 

Acura uses a heavy flywheel. That may be what you're feeling. RPM doesn't immediately drop.

 

Thanks. I was concerned my technique was wrong and I'd be causing premature clutch wear.