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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  TSXstacy! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By David Gifford - September 10 - 7:06 pm

  As this is my very first brand-new car I may be a little biased. I did a lot of research and test drives and when the dust settled the TSX was the clear choice. Honda reliability, The Acura name-status without being pretentious and driveability. This car is fun to drive and you feel confident that it will handle most traffic situations with ease, except a stoplight-to-stoplight blast with any car with a potent V6 or better (not a big deal to me). Ergonomics seem to be dead-on and the seats are wonderful. I love the instrument cluster and how easy it is to read, even in bright daylight. If you are considering a new car, do not fail to test drive this one.

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  2009 Acura TSX - 2009 Acura TSX
  By unsichtbaremann - August 18 - 8:16 am

  I just bought this car a week ago and Im beyond thrilled! Being my first new car purchase out of graduate school, I knew I wanted the reliability of Acura (read Honda) and practical, while still sporty. This fits the bill perfectly. Sure, the grille looks a little odd (or Mazda/Saturn-like), but thats about the only gripe for me. The i-VTEC engine is a great blend of spunk, fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness (even though Im not on the "save the planet boat," its still impressive to see a ULEV vehicle that can still perform). The six-speed transmission and the tech package are the way to go!

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  Best car Ive had - 2005 Acura TSX
  By ASenna88 - August 17 - 2:06 am

  This is by far the best car Ive owned its my 10th Honda made car and the best. I love the HID lights and XM radio, although another 20hp or so would be nice its still a fantastic car and the best buy for the money anywhere. Do yourself a favor and put this car at the top of your shopping list.

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  AMAZING CAR! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Cadu - July 18 - 5:16 am

  The car is just amazing. The engine is awesome and there is no noise from the engine. I just traded my 2003 Audi A4 for the 2006 Acura TSX...and i dont regret at all. The car is Perfect!

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  Very Happy - 2009 Acura TSX
  By SW - July 14 - 12:26 am

  I just purchased my TSX a few weeks ago and couldnt be happier. I test drove and compared the G35, Maxima, IS250. I did a ton of research and the longer Ive had the car the happier I am with the purchase. I got it loaded with most accessories... the others were much more expensive and lacked comparable features. If youre in the market for a small four-door sedan you wont go wrong with the TSX.

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  Love the TSX - no regrets of decision - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Madhuri - July 2 - 10:00 am

  This is my first new car, and I am glad I made the right diecision in getting a TSX. I love driving this car. Nice interior with silver trim (for Carbon Grey ext / Ebony interior). I was speculating between Saab 9-3 and TSX, interior is one of the reasons I opted for TSX.

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  A truly wonderful automobile - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Jim - July 1 - 1:16 pm

  Ive owned this car for over a month so far and cannot be happier with my decision to buy it. I had cross-shopped this vehicle with the BMW 3-series (reliability concerns and much less value for money), Audi A4 (again, less value for the money), Lexus IS 300 (too small) and Mazda6 (inferior build quality). No other vehicle was comparable to the all-around the performance, quality, and features found in the TSX. The power is excellent especially for a 4-cylinder engine, and the handling is taut and precise. The interior is very nicely appointed, and the car comes fully loaded. I opted against the only option - the navigation feature as I didnt think it was necessary for my needs.

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  Fine Daily Driver - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Frank - June 21 - 7:53 am

  I’ve been driving my 2009 TSX for a little over 4 weeks and have had an opportunity to compare in detail to my 2005 TSX, which I still own. The 2009 TSX is a far superior vehicle in terms of driving comfort, acceleration, handling, cabin noise, low speed maneuverability, turning radius, fuel economy, and overall refinement. I have read the professional reviews and my conclusion is that these people drive the car for a few hours on a test track in situations that are not representative of daily driving conditions for the average buyer of this vehicle. Having said that, I do agree, that 2009 TSX is not a “sports” sedan and probably should not be marketed as one by Acura.

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  Great car!! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By gotong - June 18 - 6:40 am

  The car does seem to use a lot of gas for its size; good acceleration from stop; fun to drive you dont even notice the engine straining at high speeds (this is how I got my first speeding ticket); I got one foggy headlight (inside) that I had to have the dealer fixed but its no big deal; the radio control on the steering wheel is kind of squeaky; spacious trunk compartment. Overall this is a great car!

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  Fun to Drive - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Data - June 5 - 11:40 am

  My TSX is 6 months old and the Mike has quit working. Part has been out of stock for 3 weeks. Other than that I love my car. Great acceleration, smooth transmission. I also like the firm steering. I took a friend for a ride and she said it feels like the seats "hug" you. The Navigation is awesome! If you have ever been to a City or State and you dont know where to eat or need a gas station, no problem.