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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  Not bad. - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Toeser - May 7 - 9:18 am

  Being retired, I now put far more miles on my bicycle and motorcycle than my car, so it made no sense for me to buy new. After a lot of reading and looking, I narrowed my choices down to about 5 brands/models, and then just searched for the best one available. I like the style, the gizmos, and the comfort. However, the TSX is not nearly as quiet as an Accord I owned in the early 1990Â’s. I agree with others that the paint is cheap, and the radio just O.K. I love the Nav system, but it does have some voice command brain farts. Mileage isnÂ’t awesome (compared with newer cars), but decent - 26/30 for me. It is one of the more comfortable cars I have owned. Great seats.

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  Not typical reliability - 2004 Acura TSX
  By sledin_biker - May 5 - 12:17 pm

  Although this is my 4th Honda product, this one does not match the reliability of the others. Overall this is a great car to drive but the list of serious problems with this car is very un-Honda like. I have replaced my entire A/C system ($2,200), radio unit (warranty), stains from the inside out on the seats, tail light recall, but most concerning is the oil consumption. My car consumes (not leaks) 1 L (~1qt) of oil every 1000 km (600 miles), and I have found similar stories on forums. I dont drive it hard, in fact I baby the car and rarely engage VTEC, it would be easier to understand if I abused the vehicle. This is my first vehicle to actually consume oil.

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  2010 TSx/w technology package. - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Craig - May 3 - 1:44 pm

  The 2010 TSX/technology package is a great car to drive. The interior design is excellent as well as the exterior.There is a lot of room in the front. The navigation system is very easy to use use as well as the bluetooth. I tried other cars with the same package but they are more complicated to use. When I drive my car heads turn. Without even looking at the inside I get compliments on the look of the car. This car feels good on the highway plus it has a lot of power for a 4 cylinder. I can just imagine the 6 cylinder. There is a 3 month trial period for the XM radio and that is a must to have. Great Job Acura.

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  Still a Great Car - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Mike - May 2 - 9:37 pm

  I wrote a review 2 years ago. I still have my TSX. I bought it in May of 2004 brand new. Besides normal maintenance its still going strong. Ive got 102,000 miles on it now. At this point Im considering keeping this thing till the wheels fall off. Ive hit 100k, lets go for 200k now!

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  Love at first drive - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Amatista - May 1 - 3:09 pm

  Ive had this car since 10/09 and have put 6,000 miles on it. Driving this car has been a relief since my previous car (2007 Murano) was repurchased as a lemon. The interior is very sharp looking, and will endure over the years. Averaging about 27 mpg, hoping it will increase. Since premium gas is only "recommended" in the 4 cylinder, Ive tried reg. and prem., and can notice the difference. Only using premium now. Love this car!

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  CANT WIPE THE SMILE OFF MY FACE!! - 2007 Acura TSX
  By tsxpert - April 26 - 5:09 pm

  I absolutely LOVE this car. Hot Milano red with navigation, spoiler, sunroof, leather, heated seats, premium stereo, ground effects. It looks great. It drives great. It handles great. Its fast, fun, efficient, luxurious, gorgeous, bulletproof, and there arent a ton of them on the street. And Im serious, this thing is simply never in the shop! I wish everything worked as well as my TSX! I smile every time I get behind the wheel. The seats cradle you in soft, bolstered comfort. When you consider everything, this just may be the perfect car. There is nothing about it I dont like. Great job, Acura!!

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  Very Happy - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Acura1 - April 20 - 6:06 pm

  In this price range you cant get a better entry level sporty sedan. If youre thinking about purchasing one then do so. Driving this car never gets old. Its like a sanctuary with all the features and comfort. The car rides beautifully. I went from a Honda Accord to this and although I loved my Honda I could never go back.

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  Solid car - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Ernie T - April 18 - 9:26 pm

  The car is solid and has a predictable feel and control. At first the ride seemed stiff and rough, either I have become used to the feel or the car has softened up just a hair. Audio is good but not outstanding. Driving is fun and quite.

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  Be aware of rattle noises - 2010 Acura TSX
  By NL3 - April 16 - 9:26 pm

  Like the car but has lot of rattle noises from various places (research around on the internet - you will know what I mean). For me its from the passenger seat door - brand new car with 2900 miles and I have noises. If that doesnt bother you then its a perfect car. Otherwise be aware before what you are buying.

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  Great with a few exceptions - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Skip - April 9 - 10:20 am

  I couldnt find another entry level luxury car that came even close to the TSX for features at the price. I handles well, if a little slow off the line. They need to equip it with better tires and a more reliable braking system. The heating on a cold day takes a long time to come up to temperature. See suggested improvement section for comments on tires and brakes which are terrible.