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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  Worst Car - 4 things that wrong with it - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Bell - March 8 - 10:18 am

  This car is the worst car that ever had. 1a. GPS doesnt have the information about speed limit(It is nothing like TomTom or Garmin) 1c. when for example you search for “Wendy’s” it gives you Wendy’s that 2000 miles away 2. Microphone. 2a. This is my 3rd car with Bluetooth, and this is the worst Microphone ever. People hear you very bad it’s like you on a very bad speakerphone. 2b. There is a 3-4 seconds delay between when you answer the phone and people starting to hear you. When it’s cold outside the climate control blows Hot air to the bottom and Cold air to the front vents (and there is no way to close front vents even on manual “floor only” mode still blows air from front side vent

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  Fun to Drive, but poor MPG city - 2007 Acura TSX
  By G - March 6 - 11:40 pm

  Now on year 3 of owning this car, Just a great car. Fun to drive, quick acceleration, especially at highway speed. Very ergonomic. Super reliable. BUT...like previous reviews, it is true city MPG is poor. Average consistently 19 MPG in city, there is an on board cpu that monitors it. Highway is great, 30+. Cant figure out the wide discrepancy between city and highway. I have also experienced steering wheel vibrations.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Mr Gone - March 5 - 10:18 pm

  Honda (and Acura) vehicles have always felt like home to me. I had been away for awhile but when I decided to get a new car last summer, I chose the TSX. I dont think you can buy a better looking, driving, or better equipped car for the money. The car has nearly everything I could want in features, the handling is very nimble, it is supremely comfortable on long or short trips, I really like the interior and exterior styling. The torque off the line is a little low but when you get the engine in the zone it pulls hard. The navi system is great, the best part is that its a Honda at heart and should run forever. My car as 53K miles on it and it still looks, feels, and even smells new.

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  Fantastic value for the $$$ - 2010 Acura TSX
  By nyccarguy - March 5 - 7:59 pm

  I purchased our 2010 Acura TSX TECH as part of the cash for clunkers program over the summer. It will eventually replace my wifes 2007 BMW X3 when the lease is up at the end of July. I really like the sharp, exterior styling. The interior is gorgeous and well put together. I love the ride & handling. The ride is comfortable without being plush. Put your foot down and the TSX zings all the way up to its 7000 RPM redline. The TSX is a terrific value. It gets great gas mileage. Id recommend it to anybody.

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  Awesome - 2010 Acura TSX
  By AIH - March 4 - 5:53 pm

  I just got rid of my 2006 BMW 325i for this and dont regret it at all. The interior blows away any 1-5 Series BMW. Ride quality is amazing and the price right now for one is great! Look at spending around 26,900 for one!

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  Total Satisfaction - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Terry - March 4 - 3:01 pm

  I had narrowed my choice down to the BMW 328i or the TSX and after driving both cars the choice was fairly easy, with my wife in agreement. First, let me say that unless you are into racing or hot rodding, you dont need the 6 cyl. and you will get the bonus of much better gas mileage. So far I have averaged 27.6 mpg. The car is loaded with features, so you dont really need to buy any options and the price is great for the luxury level. My only complaint is the trunk is access with any bag larger than a "carry-on", but is deep once you get past the opening.

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  Nice little car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By John - March 4 - 1:42 pm

  I recently purchased a used 2006 TSX, trading in my 2005 Nissan Altima. My initial impressions are that the build quality is very good, Im actually getting better gas mileage than the 4cyl Nissan engine, and the car is fun to drive. There are a few convenience features that the Altima had that the TSX strangely are lacking. Kinda weird you cant view total mileage and outside temp at the same time. Have to hit the unlock button to open drivers side door, and the sunroof controls are in a crazy place. I still find myself reaching up to open the sunroof only to realize the button is down on the bottom side of the dash. No auto headlights?

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  My 2nd Acura - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Markus - March 2 - 10:27 pm

  Ive had my TSX for a little over a month now. This is my 2nd Acura (04 MDX ,bought new and still own). Im very pleased with the power of the 4cly and the gas mileage has been 27-28mpg combined city/hwy. The car has a nice balance of sporty versus comfort, not to little of either. The blue tooth and stereo system work excellent. If this car gives us the same service as the MDX has then I will be an Acura customer for life.

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  Lets get real about the reviews.... - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Schmullis - February 27 - 5:11 pm

  So, I read a ton of reviews before leasing this car. Net: This is a very good car for the money. Contrary to what some have said: 1 - This is a quiet car on the highway. Very minor road noise. People can speak at a normal volume and hold a conversation easily at 70 mph. 2 - Very comfortable. Not a mushy "Camry / Buick" ride, but firm, yet quite comfortable. 3 - Handling - very competent. 0.85g on the skid pad, better than most cars. 4 - Acceleration - quite good for a 4 cylinder. 5 - Gas mileage. Avg. 25 mixed and easily tops 30 on the Highway. Sports sedan? If you want one of these, better to buy a rear driver, like a BMW. It "Sporty" Sedan? Absolutely. Great commuter

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  Awesome with V6 - 2010 Acura TSX
  By wch966 - February 26 - 11:25 pm

  I used to own a 2006 Acura TL. However, once the lease was up on that I decided to try the new TSX V6. Great car, especially with the V6 and the Technology Package. The V6 has tons of power and is very quick off the line. Silky smooth engine and transmission...will get away from you on the interstates if not watching it closely. Got the Crystal Black Pearl with Ebony interior. Had many complements on style, color and all the tech gadgets. Night and day difference in the navigation from my old TL. This one is MUCH better!