Shoot2Thrill

On SH-AWD, now that both are 6 speeds. Just curious as to why this would be. Maybe ECU difference, test methodology, variation in car to car.

winstrolvtec

That is all correct but the biggest impact is likely due to the shorter gearing. It used to be that MT's gave better performance and fuel economy but that's not the case anymore even outside of Acura or Honda. Usually the 6MT is no slower but the newer AT's have found ways to either be more fuel effecient or test better.

With the 6MT I feel you get the best of both worlds. The gearing and less powertrain loss to add a sporty edge when you want it and the further control of the gears can give you a mpg advantage. You have more room to manipulate it.

I regularly beat the mpg averages for the car when I want to and I don't know if I would have that type of control or ability in the AT but then when you drive agressively, I imagine it consumes more than the AT.