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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  Its almost what you would expect - 2009 Acura TSX
  By JiminSD - January 28 - 9:41 pm

  The TSX is a very good car. Mileage is decent, exterior design is great, and interior design is improved over the 04-08. Overall quality is not up to Honda/Acura standards, though. Brakes squeak at times, rear brakes go at 15-25k miles, engine pings on acceleration at below 50 degree temperatures, and leather is a bit thin. However, when you consider that for the same price you could drive a similarly optioned Camry, Accord, or Prius, and the TSX really shines. All the competitors are $5-10k more. Even with its shortcomings, there is nothing like it for the price.

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  Great entry lux car, nav not worth $2k - 2008 Acura TSX
  By U2Guy - January 27 - 12:41 am

  Bought the car for the wife, she loves it. She loves the Nav, I think it isnt worth the $2k (especially now that we both have iPhones :)). Navigation should have real time traffic and weather, like my iPhone or any other handheld GPS unit. The only negative so far is the brakes. They are terrible. Okay, so they do stop the car, but they are weak and stopping distance is longer than expected. Took some getting use to, to say the least! The Bluetooth is cool, but limited. People complain a lot that they cant hear us (and Im a loud guy). All in all, a great car for the price! We are happy with it & would buy again. Good (not great) MPG average 25 MPG in mixed driving.

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  Sporty and Luxury in a small sedan - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Hal L - January 24 - 9:39 am

  I have had my 2010 TSX 4 cyl for a week now. I traded down from an SUV, I wanted something more fuel efficient. I am getting about 26mpg trip average. So my main concern is satisfied there. This is a great commuter car, very comfortable, quick acceleration, sharp steering, and has all the safety features. The Tech package has a great audio system and a decent navi. Interior is slick, without going over the top luxury. No wood anywhere, but nice leather and textured plastic/metal. Some people dont like the exterior styling, but I like it. It certainly stands out in a crowd, looks modern and sleek. Overall, for an entry level luxury, nothing beats Acura.

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  Good value for the money - 2009 Acura TSX
  By PMAZCO - January 22 - 1:26 pm

  The car runs great. Im not a racing freak and use this car mainly as a family car. The interiors look great and the exterior is great too. So far the car has satisfied me the way I drive. I have driven it on highways (mountain roads as well) and it runs great. I would wait for few more months and would then assess its reliability. I bought it as a CPO car and assume that the known problems (if any) were solved.

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  understated - 2009 Acura TSX
  By kevin - January 17 - 4:30 pm

  The first big deal is the seat comfort. Im able to drive for over 3 hours without pain in thighs as I experienced in my BMer and my RL. Gas mileage at 75-80 is 34 mpg. Around town its about 21.5 on mid-range gas-- -doesnt need supreme. I miss the 2 compartment (upper and lower full console in which I could put and FIND smaller things. Voice recognition, as usual, isnt ready for prime time---it really stinks! Accepting telephone numbers is near impossible even with my radio voice. Its quick off the gun, passes with ease power to spare and interior room is fine with good trunk space. I probably will go for another TSX as my lease comes due in 18 months.

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  Love it! - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Dan K. - January 16 - 11:04 am

  After 1000 miles I now have the sense of the car and it feels great. I bought it in Nov and only had a couple weeks before a major snow. No issues, and handles well. Sure a little more torque would be fun if youre drag racing, but with 6 speeds you can match to the situation is goes great. Lots of fun to run through the gears with the smooth shifting and great clutch feel. I felt the automatic was a little busy shifting up/down, but the auto does get a little better mpg. I use it mostly for commuting and it makes the drive pleasant and engaging. I get about 25 mpg with mix of commuter driving, and the trip computer says 27, so about 10% optimistic (same as my last car).

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  Best luxury car for much less - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Tim Hogan - January 12 - 2:59 pm

  Looked at BMW and Lexus before realizing this was the best for far less. Car is amazing on gas and have achieved 35mpg highway going to Massachusetts. Everything works great and performs well. Put on snow tires for it and does very well in slippery conditions. Great car for a kid or commuter or simply around town. Would recommend to anyone. Son is buying mine and i will be getting another one.

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  Great Improvements - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Chris - January 5 - 10:03 pm

  Great car and fun ride. Just got out of an 07 TSX into 10. Quicker off of the start, and shift timing has improved a lot. Added features since the 07 model such as auto locks and auto headlamps are great. Interior is great and very comfortable, and of course the fuel economy is one of the best.

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  Love this car! - 2008 Acura TSX
  By ginny - January 3 - 10:49 pm

  Loved the 08 so much, I hunted down a leftover at at CA dealer and had it shipped to NY. Was not disappointed. The 6 speed manual was definitely the way to go. Its more fun than the auto and I get great mileage - 34 on the hwy, 27 commuting. So far the winter handling with Blizzak snow has been excellent. Im planning on keeping this baby for a long time!

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  12 month 25Kmiles update - 2009 Acura TSX
  By highmiles - January 1 - 1:36 pm

  Have owned the car for a year, 25K miles. Average MPG 28 (mostly Hiway, with local thrown in.) Reliability is great, maintenance costs about $400, all oil changes at 5K intervals. Dealer and manual says I can go longer. Have occasional problems with bluetooth. Either phone or car, not sure which. Have gotten used to sharp cutoff headlight pattern, though it is still disconcerting on hilly roads. Car is very comfortable on long drives.