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:

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  My favorite Car - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Alliescar - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Love it. Black is a great color. Should have gotten the navigation system. Interior is beautiful. Seats comfortable.

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  I love this car! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By mitchdfla - March 21 - 10:00 am

  I bought this TSX in April, and it had 149 miles on it. Now it has almost 20,000. I drove it from Florida to California and back, and it performed perfectly. It drives very well on highways, handled mountains well, and gets great gas mileage despite a few high speed adventures. The cabin is quiet and comfortable, especially the front seats (leather!). The trunk is roomy, and I get a lot of good comments from others about it. I drive it daily 100 miles to and from work. The sport shift features is fun. The dual control a/c is great as is the stereo with 6- disc changer. The safety features are handy: ABS, Stability Control and Traction Control (features usually found on more expensive cars)

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  04 Acura TSX - 2004 Acura TSX
  By KristopherRNY - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Solid performance with luxury options at an affordable price.

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  A fun Car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Jeff - February 22 - 6:43 am

  Have had car for two days. Traded in a Camry Hybrid for more than I paid for it 8 months ago w/9k miles on it and couldnt pass on the opportunity. The Camry Hybrid averaged 35 miles per gallon and was a bit uncomfortable, not fun to drive, and most of all I felt that the current hybrid hoopla will soon be looked upon like a fad as new technology is introduced. The 09 TSX gets "near" what I got with the Camry Hybrid, but is more fun and the intention is to drive it to 150k+ miles like I did with my 97 TL (my 03 MDX has 80k miles on it). Have two small kids and the backseat, of course, has slightly less room than the Camry - biggest con, but expected longevity and drive make up for it.

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  near perfect for under $30k - 2004 Acura TSX
  By pocketkiller - February 11 - 10:00 am

  Excellent drivetrain, braking, body rigidity, and aerodynamics. Great interior features and ergonomics. If you are looking for a fun good looking sedan with all the features for under $30k then this is the car for you. Safe and roomy enough for a family of 4, but with enough sport to make the car fun...but still worthy of a comfortable ride.

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  acura tsx - 2004 Acura TSX
  By tavo1972 - February 7 - 10:00 am

  my acura tsx drives great. performs excellent and its looks are very sporty.the vehicle handling is tight

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  Wow--nice car! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Goozie - February 7 - 5:16 am

  Picked up the 2005 TSX 3 days ago and I am impressed! XM satellite radio, heated mirrors and power passenger seats are nice additions. 200 hp engine acceleration is more than acceptable. Sound system is terrific and leather seats are very comfortable. After researching Honda Accord, Subaru WRX, Toyota Camry and BMW 3 series, I am certain that I made the correct selection. This car is combines sportiness, luxury and and enjoyment of driving in a nice package.

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  Love It!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Pootie1026 - February 6 - 8:40 am

  What a joy to drive! It rides very smooth. Excellent pickup. Comfortable on long drives, roomy trunk.

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  Complains when pushed - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Neil - January 25 - 9:50 pm

  I bought my new TSX over labor day, trading in both a leased 05 RL and a Mazda 3 wagon. I was a hairs breadth away from buying a V6 Accord, but decided to go for the extra bells and whistles of the TSX. Someone told me Id just bought a $32,000 iPod accessory (which may have a grain of truth). While I think the car has plenty of power, and I love the gas mileage, the poor little engine thrashes and complains under even moderate load. I took it to the dealer complaining that the engine was knocking (it was really that bad!), but they said to just use Shell or Chevron premium. That didnt really help. I expected better from Honda.

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  New 2009 Purchase - 2009 Acura TSX
  By jhigbie - January 18 - 6:36 am

  Have owned the new TSX for one week: 400 miles: very smooth, quiet ride. 3 inches added to the width makes the front seats spacious compared to previous model and BMW3. Armrest slides forward. Lots of drink storage. Monstrous DVD audio,10 speakers. Easy link with mp3 and iPod. Easy to learn nav, best for cities and highways. Bluetooth easy to link. Push back acceleration from 30 to 80, shift from 1st to 2nd hesitates at slow acceleration. Paddle shifting in manual mode. About town gas mileage 25, long distance trip 30 mpg. Soft ride yet still some jiggle. Steering tight yet isolated. Remains level on curves. Back seat raise above front seat. Trunk space good--pass through to back seat.