Overview & Reviews

Drivers seeking a sporty sedan that's a bit more upscale than the typical family four-door will find a lot to like in the Acura TSX. It's a solid choice for daily use given its competent driving characteristics, high-quality interior and generous level of standard features. And like most Acura products, the TSX boasts a high level of refinement, a reputation for above-average reliability and decent value for the dollar.

The first-generation Acura TSX impressed us with its sporty and nimble feel, but the small backseat and firm ride weren't for everyone. The second (current) generation offers a roomier cabin and a smoother, more isolated ride, although the athletic feel was somewhat muted for these gains. The V6 model with its sportier suspension atones for that sin somewhat. Overall, the TSX is a smart choice, though not the most prestigious, for a new or used entry-level luxury sedan.

Current Acura TSX
For power, the front-wheel-drive TSX offers a choice of a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine (201 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque) or a 3.5-liter V6 (280 hp and 254 lb-ft). A five-speed automatic transmission is standard on all models, while an excellent six-speed manual is optional only with the four-cylinder.

Base and Special Edition trims are offered, with the Special Edition being available only with the four-cylinder engine. Base models come with an impressive array of standard features that are often optional on competitors, like xenon headlights, a sunroof, heated power front seats with driver memory, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and a seven-speaker CD audio system with satellite radio and iPod integration. The TSX Special Edition adds more aggressive-looking exterior elements and sporty cabin upgrades such as red interior stitching and aluminum pedals. Base models with the four-cylinder engine may be upgraded with a Technology package that adds amenities like a navigation system and a rearview camera.

In reviews, we've found that while the 2.4-liter four is commendably smooth in the Honda tradition, it simply doesn't measure up to the six-cylinder and turbocharged four-cylinder engines found in other entry-level luxury sport sedans. The V6, however, provides a notable increase in thrust, delivered in a linear and smooth fashion.

In reviews, the TSX impressed us with its technology offerings, including one of the better optional audio systems around. But it disappoints with the way it drives, with numb steering feel that's uncharacteristic of a Honda product and braking performance that verges on unacceptable. The refined but lackluster inline-4 is also unlikely to impress shoppers in the TSX's upscale segment, although the sport-tuned V6 model brings improvements in both acceleration and handling. Ultimately, the TSX, particularly the four-cylinder version, often seems like more of a lavishly appointed family car than a luxury sedan.

Used Acura TSX Models
The current generation of the Acura TSX debuted for 2009 and brought a larger, roomier and somewhat controversially styled TSX to market. This first-year version was only offered with four-cylinder power -- there was no sportier V6 trim level.

The first-generation Acura TSX debuted in 2004. Sportier than the second-generation model, the original TSX was widely praised for its sharp handling and entertaining (though peaky) 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generated 200 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque. Among the standard features were items like 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, a sunroof, heated power front seats with driver memory, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and an eight-speaker audio system.

Antilock brakes, stability control, front side impact airbags and side curtain airbags for all outboard passengers were also standard. An impressive DVD-based navigation system with touchscreen and voice-activated software was the only available option for the well-equipped first-generation TSX.

In road tests, we found that while the original TSX's torque-deficient VTEC engine needed to be revved hard to get sufficient acceleration, it was nonetheless quite fun to wring out, especially when equipped with the slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission (a five-speed automatic was also available). Sharp handling and good steering feel made the TSX a sleeper sport sedan. The first-generation TSX also featured a high-quality and aesthetically pleasing interior design.

There were a handful of changes made to the original Acura TSX during its production run. Satellite radio, heated exterior mirrors and a power passenger seat were added in 2005. The 2006 TSX featured engine, feature and styling updates -- the four-cylinder engine was modified to produce 205 hp and 164 lb-ft of torque, and the navigation system gained faster processing and additional points of interest. Bluetooth, driver seat memory and the MP3 auxiliary jack were also new. Exterior enhancements included redesigned front and rear fascias, new side sills, foglamps and new alloy wheels. The following year saw a tire-pressure monitor fitted as standard, while 2008, the last year of this generation, saw no changes of note.

User Reviews:

• 

  Second TSX - 2010 Acura TSX
  By him1 - December 7 - 2:00 am

  Already have a 2005 Six speed. Was looking for a second car with Automatic. Done the all possible research and test driving. Nothing beats this Acura- so got another one! Compared to 2005 model it is a different car in all respects (and better). Much better build quality, much more luxury and refinement all over. It is by no means underpowered or less sporty (some critics have said last gen was more sporty). This car also has much better road grip, cornering and braking. It will be difficult to find another car within $4-$5000 that matches the TSX - not even TL.

• 

  All Around Great Car, High Reliability - 2006 Acura TSX
  By HSJIII - November 27 - 2:00 am

  TSX is the best all around value in the entry level luxury segment or maybe in any segment. After 21,000 miles in one year and 49,500 total there is not a squeak or rattle. I average 31-33 mpg highway w/ Mobil 1 synthetic oil. Service cost is low especially if you change filters yourself (simple). Road noise is muted. Super quiet engine. Headlights are very bright with wide illumination. Low insurance costs. This is my second TSX.

• 

  Just like new - 2006 Acura TSX
  By RB & PB - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Approaching 100k.Recently had the brakes done and new tires (oem)put on the car,it feels as new as the day it rolled off the dealers lot.The controls still feel like they were dipped in butter.The clean,classic lines and overall styling of this car remains relevant.The car suffers from a lack of low-end torque & poor acceleration from a dead stop. Acura missed a golden opportunity to remedy this by not offering a turbo I4 (like the RDX) and thus maintaining the "agile/light/tossable" personality of this car. Test drove the new TSX and did not like the numb steering & dull interior ,may consider other options like the IS 350 AWD (increase HP, AT dual shift capability,heated/cooled seats,etc.

• 

  Great car, poor speakers - 2009 Acura TSX
  By phoking - November 15 - 2:00 am

  I have the Tech package 6 speed and love the car, but have a few complaints here and there and have owned it for just under 1 year. Pros, I love the interior look of the car. The design of the dashboard is pretty sleek and I think everything flows really nicely. Especially the gauges at night. You get a pretty nice feel from the shifter. but lately it feels like it kinda "clunks" in to 3rd instead of slipping in like it usually does. And with the tech package, you get one of the best sounding factory audio settings Cons: with that said about the audio, the speakers are bad quality. Ive had 3 speakers blow since owning the car, and I listen at moderate to low levels only. Handling is subpar.

• 

  TSX for my Teenager. - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Her TSX - November 13 - 2:00 am

  We purchased a white TSX approximately one year ago for our 16 year old daughter. She absolutely loves this car. Her friends think she is so cool. This car is very stylish. It currently has 79,800 miles and we have not experienced any problems. We will keep this car in the family for years to come.

• 

  Liked My First So Much I Bought Another - 2010 Acura TSX
  By RHagel - November 11 - 2:00 am

  For the record, I just came off a 3 year lease on a 08 TSX w/6-speed manual. I loved it, but I was tired of driving a stick. So I bought another, this time an automatic. This car is better in almost every way than the original. Better seats, MUCH better base stereo, better handling, more room, better build qulaity and overall more fun to drive. For those of you who are skeptical about the performance, dont be, there is enough there. Not to mention the automatic shifts quickly and is pretty sporty. This is coming from a self proclaimed auto enthusiast. The bottom line is that you will not find a better value for your money ANYWHERE, especially if you are looking to lease. Two thumbs Up!

• 

  Almost Great, but 4 is underpowered - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Tom L Glastonbury CT - November 11 - 2:00 am

  I was down to this and the VW CC and made the wrong choice. Its a nice car, handles great, but its underpowered with the 4 Cyl automatic especially when entering a freeway. Even in manual mode its inadequate in the all important 40-60 range. If you are thinking of switching from a 6 cyl to the TSX 4, think twice. The TSX had better features for the price, but when you step on the gas at 40MPH and nothing much happens, features dont help. The 6 cyl was $3,000 more (too much). The VW has it where it counts, low end torque. Unfortunately, the VW came only with leatherette(Vinyl) and my wife hated the VW drving position. My guess is Acura will change to the turbo 4 from the RDX next year.

• 

  TSX - 2005 Acura TSX
  By bubba - November 2 - 2:00 am

  Have over 170,000. A few problems, power locks, rear suspension (tow out), but for the miles and fuel mileage a fantastic auto. Navigation is outstanding, interior is of best quality. May buy anothr but only after 300,000 on this one.

• 

  Great car - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Ddsdriver - October 23 - 2:00 am

  First car I have ever owned that remained flawless for the entire first year and expect it to remain that way.

• 

  Outstanding - 2010 Acura TSX
  By driver - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Had 06 TSX. Great car but a little small and terrible turning radius. The 10 has the size just about right and they fixed the turning radius. Just finished driving coastal highway (1/101) from SanDiego to Astoria and had a fantastic road trip. Never dreaded getting back into the car. Average 25 city and 35 highway. Who needs a hybrid?