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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  Best Bang For Your Buck! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By punchy13 - January 12 - 10:00 am

  Exceptional car and value. Hands down the funnest car Ive had the pleasure of driving. I still cant believe they got 200hp in a 4cyl car. It really has some zip and the tranny is as smooth as Barry White! Great styling and well constructed. I was also considering the Altima, Accord and Mazda3. I test drove them and the Altima felt cheap, the Accords styling was boring, and the Mazda3 was just too small. Besides there just too many Altimas and Accords on the road. The TSX is loaded with features youd expect from a car thats about $10k more. I got mine for $25,581 before tax and license (auto w/o nav). The TSX is as close to perfect as you can get.

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  Best for the Bucks! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By P MAZE - January 5 - 9:56 pm

  I recently purchased 2 09 TSXs for my wife and son. I own an 07 MDX. Acura is smart in providing a great deal of similarity between all models. The 09 TSX now becomes the little brother to the TL as opposed to the being the big brother to the Civic. My wife had an 05 TSX which we added the ground effects package to to make it stand out. Nothing was really functional and the 09 has seemed to incorporate this in its styling while bearing strong similarities and function to my Tech MDX. Nice ride, excellent handling and eye catching styling. Reliability has always been great and so far gas mileage is as advertised. I have owned a lot of high end. This is the best for the bucks.

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  Fun To Drive - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Steve - December 22 - 6:16 pm

  After comparing many other near luxury wannabes, I found the TSX to represent exceptional value for my hard-earned money. I had owned a TLS and really loved it. WDP with Parchment interior. I dumped it for a lower monthly payment and for the glass fog lamps that continually needed replacement @ $300. The TSX is made in Japan. Looking at other imported product, it seems to have suffered a little in build quality when the point of manufacture is transferred to North America. I wish someone from the automobile industry could speak on this issue. We want to support our local workers.

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  Best Bang for the buck - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Jesse - December 11 - 9:03 am

  This car is great. Ive never ridden in a more responsive car. Ive been a BMW fan for a long time and have owned 3 but they don;t touch TSX. Iwsh every car rode like this. There is no better choice.

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  Great Car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By A Step Up - November 23 - 6:06 am

  This car drives very nice. It is a step up from my past two Honda Accords. I like everything about it. It is very smooth and likes to rev when driving in higher speeds. My fuel economy is getting better everyday. I have only had the car for a week and a half but it has been fun. I recommend it for a first time near luxury buyer. It offers so many things as standard features that its great. I am a honda owner for life now.

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  Bumpy, bumpy, bumpy. - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Moosie - November 3 - 8:56 am

  This is a very good car, but I chose the wrong one. The seats are very comfortable, looks good inside and out, trans is smooth, and braking smooth. But this car has a terrible ride. The suspension is way too stiff, especially the rear suspension. Who ever heard of a car with a rear suspension that is stiffer than the front? This car jiggles everywhere and no my tires are not overinflated. For short trips this is ok, but so uncomfortable and exhausting on any long drive. Also the steering is too hard, with no feel for the road. I will sell it soon and buy a smoother riding car.

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  TSX review after 12 months of ownership - 2004 Acura TSX
  By TSX in Redmond,WA - October 19 - 10:00 am

  Highs: - 6 speed shifter and 4 cylinder engine. Honda makes the best 4- cylinder engines I have ever driven. The engine never has the thrashy sound many 4 cyliders have. This is a Civic Si for adults who want a little comfort with their fun! - The front seats are the most comfortable I have sat in, and this really became apparent after the purchase. - Interior quality, design, and features are top-notch, regardless of price. I wanted a BMW 3-series, but it made no sense after driving the TSX. Lows: - Front door panels rattle and squeak, even after a trip to the dealer. - Compared to other cars, it has lots of road noise.

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  COULD BE BETTER - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Phantomenace - October 12 - 2:00 am

  Crashed my RSX, so I used my insurance money to buy this car. This car is much more comfortable to drive, but does not feel as sporty. Also, my average MPG observed is lower than the rated MPG. I cross shopped with the G35, A4, and the IS300. The thing that tipped the scale was the nav. Unlike the others, the TSXs screen is huge and it is also touchscreen. This car feels identical to the Accord, consider cross shopping with that car as well.

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  Im glad I own this car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By big al - September 21 - 5:33 am

  I bought my 09 tsx about a month ago, and have nothing but good things to say about it. I was torn between the 08 accord and tsx, after test driving both, the choice was simple. The tsx test drive was superior. I commute 120 miles a day and I am truly impressed with the ride and comfort of this car. I love the car and have nothing to say but good things about it. It is great on gas and a blast to drive, and compares nicely to those pricey luxury vehicles.The bluetooth is great and with Acuras well known performance and reliability, you cannot go wrong with this car.

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  a better car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By chucky - September 20 - 8:56 pm

  Ive had this car since Jan. 2004 and so far everything went fine until recently the tail lights were not working properly. It was due to the Harness Recall. The front right headlight seal broke or was not properly packed when assembled at the factory since water was filtering to the headlight. The front right axle boot had a cut so it had to be replaced. The TSX is not as fuel efficient as estimated. It will go only 330 miles with a full tank. The sound system needs some work. The car needs more power. After all if you are looking for an entry level luxury car this is is for you. Since the chances are you will not find anything like a TSX for less.