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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  2nd TSX - 2006 Acura TSX
  By KD - January 10 - 9:53 pm

  I had a 04 5AT + Navi TSX. I was xtremely disatisfied with the 5AT performance. The car just felt sluggish...when I wanted to pass a speeding car on the highway. Hence, my decision to trade in for 06 MT + Navi. I love the way Honda has configured the gear ratios. It gives a better acceleration + drop down 1 or 2 gears and it rewards u with peak performance (vtec points reached easily on every gear). I decided to stay with TSX for its Honda reliability, interior design and one of the best 6 spd gear box in the market. The car is rated top 10 in car and driver magazine (the kick is - ONLY MT are test driven and reviewed). TSX only lacks power + torque..but it is a natural breathing engine.

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  Great car for the money - 2006 Acura TSX
  By dcpattie - December 27 - 10:56 pm

  Since this car can be had for around $26,500, its a great bargin. If your looking for a entry level lux car that is reliable, well built and fun to drive then I strongly suggest test driving the TSX.

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  Great Car! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By jvogt - December 25 - 10:00 am

  I usually spend months reading reviews and reports before buying a new car, but after a short test drive I felt I had found a great car in the Acura TSX. After two months of driving my 2004 auto w/navigation and logging about 1500 miles, I am quite happy with my decision to buy one. The car is ultra smooth and refined. The fit and finish of the leather interior is excellent and the interior design is sporty as well as elegant. The car is not overly fast, but for what it lacks in low-end torque it makes up in smoothness. Once the revs get up in the 3000 range though the care moves out nicely. Great car!

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  10 Best for a Reason - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Marcos - December 11 - 7:53 pm

  Having just moved from a 3 year old TSX to the new 06 I can tell you the best just got better. Faster, quieter, and better handing--and the TSX was great before. Try finding another car with Power Adjustable Heated Leather Seats, Bluetooth Phone Interface, 6 Disc in dash CD Changer, Moonroof, iPod/Aux-In, folding rear seats, an amazing 6 speed transmission, Fog Lights, Homelink, ABS, Brake Assist, Head Curtain Airbags, 17" Alloy Wheels and Tires, and 0-60 under 7 second all standard and well under 30k. Only option is the Voice Activated Navi which I recommend. It was great before, and now is faster, more featured, and has a Zagat Guide built in.

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  Love it - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Adam - December 2 - 10:26 pm

  Its not a TL, but its damn near close!

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  best car ever purchased - 2005 Acura TSX
  By j - November 27 - 2:30 am

  This acura is the best car that i have ever puchased. it rides very nice and handles well too. The engine has plenty of power. The stock tires are a little sluggish though.

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  Near Perfect - 2004 Acura TSX
  By krill1972 - November 13 - 10:00 am

  After owning a 2002 Audi A4 1.8T my wife and I decided to trade up on the TSX. We simply had way to many problems with the Audi that I wont go into. As for the Acura, we love it!! The ride and handeling are exceptional. Fit and finish are prefect. Plus the car has a little more interior room and a much better reputaion for reliability than the Audi. I wish the engine had a little more power on the bottom end. However, thinking about it from a marketing standpoint; if Acura put tons of power in the TSX... who would by the TL?

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  Only the Alignment - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Ed Fletcher - November 1 - 9:20 pm

  I am very pleased with all aspects of my vehicle - 205 horsepower gives it good pick-up and all the extras are included in the price! Had a problem with alignment - shifting to right- and it took dealership 2 times to get it right. Of course, dont believe the 31/22 miles for fuel - but it is close if you dont play race car.

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  All-around quality from Acura - 2005 Acura TSX
  By colleen - October 15 - 10:46 am

  So fun to drive. The all-around quality of this car especially for its price is above all others! Do not waste your time test driving other cars. You will love the TSX. The heated leather seats and new satellite radio are awesome. I love the heated side mirrors, especially in the San Francisco morning fog. Well-balanced everything.

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  Better in every way - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Jason - October 7 - 8:13 am

  I came from a 2004 TSX that I loved, and this car is better in every way. There are so many new features this year. This car is faster, drives better, has more technology, has a more quiet cabin, feels more refined, has more creature comforts, and looks better than previous models. The only thing I may not love are the new wheels, but theyre growing on me. Everything in this car is well integrated and easy to use compared to other cars, kind of like a Mac to a PC. The total package is greater than the sum of its parts. The TSX is a gem that combines all the right moves at the right price, and for 2006, Acura has found a way to improve what was for me an already perfect car.