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:
Showing 1061 through 1070 of 1,074.00-
So Glad I Gave It a Second Look - 2004 Acura TSX
By T Mitchell - June 7 - 10:00 amI spent 18 months looking for my next car and just couldnt find the level of performance and economy that I wanted without spending 35K+. I test drove the Acura TL twice and was about to give in to buying it in spite of the expense when I finally decided to test drive the TSX just to rule it out (truth is I was afraid of the 4- cylinder and "knew" I wanted a V-6). All of that changed during the test drive and I purchased one two days later. I now have over 10K miles on it and absolutely love the ride, performance, and economy. I am routinely getting 31 mpg on freeway trips and have not gotten less than 27 mpg to/from work. This car is very fun to drive and only cost me $25,500!
-
4 door S2000 - 2004 Acura TSX
By hockeydad23 - June 7 - 10:00 amIf you love sports cars [I wanted an S2000] but have a family that wants you to have four doors, this is the car for you. I absolutely love my TSX!! a PERFECT blend of performance, luxury, and some practicality. Ive taken on every sports sedan and more on the Blue Ridge Parkway; this car performs big time. Not the fastest car off the line but drop it into second and the fun begins. you dont even feel the power until you get above 4000 rpm. get there and youll leave BMWs in your dust. the ride is great too. FYI; drive it hard and youll need to give it a quart of oil before your regular oil changes. A small price to pay for owning what could be the best car for the $ on the road today
-
Mudit Tandon is wrong - 2006 Acura TSX
By The Truth - May 26 - 4:46 pmTSX is the perfect car. I have safety (5 stars), reliability, handling, speed (14.67@97), efficiency (25mpg), cleanliness (ULEV), luxury, interior space (classified mid-size), and design all at an excellent price. To achieve 14.67 you need to get www.hondata.com/reflash_tsx.html and complete the Intake/Header/Exhaust (I/E/H) powerup. www.world-challenge.com/2005/tc- standings.html (3) TSX vs (25) BMW 3series and TSX achieved 1st, 3rd, and 4th that is 1 : 8 odds.... lololol that is all i have to say for BMW 3 series vs the Honda TSX
-
This is an awesome luxary sport sedan - 2006 Acura TSX
By farmerfred - May 15 - 8:33 pmThe car is the best
-
Fun and luxury at a bargain price - 2006 Acura TSX
By NedHop - May 13 - 1:36 pmIve owned Cadillacs (Sevilles and Devilles), an Infiniti Q45, an Isuzu Trooper SE, a Toyota Prius, and many other cars. My all-time favorite, owned in the 1970s, was a Citroen DS- 21 Pallas. (My least favorite was a Mercedes that had everything possible go wrong with it; even the odometer had to be replaced.) My second-most favorite is now the 2006 Acura TSX. I looked at the TL and the RL; but the TSX is just as luxurious, just as comfortable, and a whole lot more fun to drive.
-
Loving my TSX - 2009 Acura TSX
By Marcus - May 8 - 3:16 amI traded my 03 Accod LX for the 09 TSX Base Model (Grigio/ebony interor) and I am loving it! I have read so many articles and complaints from car lovers about how upset they are because the TSX isnt a V6. Even if it is a 2.4 the car still has a lot of get up. I opted not to get the Tech package to save money and because the base model came with everything I wanted. I have a Tom Tom GPS so its all good.
-
Not so great - 2005 Acura TSX
By Bizzenn - May 1 - 2:56 pmOk, the pros: Looks nice inside and out but quite conservative, very comfortable for front driver and passenger. pretty smooth engine for a 4Cyl. Awesome tranny. The cons: All 4 detention rods in the doors went bad, brakes had to be replaced 2 times in 8000 miles, was told next time I would have to pay. Creaks and rattles in the doors. Paint oxidizing and scratches easily. Bad on gas and no torque.
-
Best value for the price - 2005 Acura TSX
By NJ_TSX - March 14 - 1:43 pmHaving driven 1500 miles in less than a month since purchase, Ive enjoyed every minute of it. Buying experience was easy and without hassle. I particularly chose the TSX because of all the standard features at a fixed price. Driving experience is almost excellent, with a smooth engine combined with a buttery gearbox, but FWD dynamics and slightly harsh suspension. There could be some improvements (see below), but for the price, it cant be beat. Although it does not feel as solid as a VW, build quality if very high. Since its new, cannot fairly rate reliability. Fuel economy for the 4-cyl could be a bit higher. Overall, a solid sedan with important features at a low price.
-
Best in its class - 2005 Acura TSX
By Best in its class - February 23 - 8:50 pmI am tired of reading all these reviews about how the tsx should have more horsepower and more features. Everyone always wants more. For the price, you cant find a better car in its class with as much standard features. If you want more horsepower, buy a TL. Stop complaining and enjoy your new tsx. This car is very lavish, and fun to drive. It gets pretty good gas mileage, and the standard sound system and XM are great. Overall very satisfied with the tsx. Would buy another one.
-
Like no other - 2005 Acura TSX
By Teamunik - February 22 - 12:00 amThis car has just about all you need in a vehicle. Youll turn heads everywhere you go with this one of a kind sport sedan. The best thing of all......Its a Honda....!!!
