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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  Great Car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By SuperSpy - December 31 - 3:36 am

  I just got the new TSX and I love it. It is a smooth ride and is fairly quiet inside.

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  Great Car - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Dave - December 28 - 9:00 pm

  Style, inside and out, is outstanding. The front seats are extremely comfortable. Gas mileage is as advertised at 21 to 22 around town. I cant wait to take an extended trip to check out that mileage. The only flaw I have found is the ride which it is somewhat jittery.

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  Great little car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By mikeL - December 23 - 3:47 pm

  This has to be the best 4 cylinder engine on the market, it is phenomenal. You can really motor in this car. I use mainly on the highways to go back and forth to work and its a great commuting car. Its a small car, but very comfortable on the inside even for someone 6 feet tall like me. The gas mileage is great, I average 30 miles on the highway. All the features on the car are standard, Navigation is the only option which makes life a lot easier. Best car for $30K on the market.

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  A perfect 10 - 2010 Acura TSX
  By nonlinear - December 18 - 10:03 pm

  Could be one of the best bangs for your buck for this year and possibly forever! Acura has finally figured out what just about every driver wants in a luxury sedan. The car offers a little bit of everything to just about anyone who has ever wanted a car with that perfect combination of options. The TL is also a great car as well as the RDX and MDX. But the TSX combines style with logic and poof there you have it, the perfect 10.

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  Fantastic car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Matt - December 17 - 10:39 am

  I absolutely love this car. I have only had it 4 months, but I could not be happier. It drives like a dream, much sportier IMO than the TL and is just as comfortable. I love the exterior and interior styling. I drove both the TL and TSX and picked the TSX as it was more familiar to me coming from an Integra and was a bit cheaper with better gas mileage. I made the right choice for me. I do wish the gas mileage was a bit better around town. Kinda low for a 4cyl.

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  Absolutely LOVE it!!! - 2010 Acura TSX
  By RMS2440 - December 16 - 10:11 pm

  I traded in my old, unreliable, V6 VW Jetta for the new 2010 TSX V6 with Tech Package. A sharp looking car, real fun to drive, comfortable seating and incredible sound system. The Tech Package is an absolute must! (The Blue Tooth Audio function works great with an iPhone!) The power of the V6 is quite an improvement over the 4-cyl. I took both for a test drive, and while the 4-cyl had impressive power, the V6 had a noticeably sportier feel to it. Ive had my TSX for 3 months now, and couldnt be happier.

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  Zero maintenance issues - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Love my TSX - December 16 - 2:42 am

  I am comparing the car to a 3 series BMW. And I must now admit I did develop an emotional attachment to the way the BMW drives the TSX just is not as exciting to drive. Here are the little things that do make up for the performance difference - tire pressure monitor, customized lighting settings, customized locking and unlocking of doors, auto reset of trip meter after gasing up, large GPS display, seemless bluetooth integration, nice all around visibility, very comfortable seats (and still sporty), good storage space, better pedal placement than the BMW, Ipod integration, and finally, zero maintenance issues.

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  Love it - 2010 Acura TSX
  By gd - December 15 - 10:34 pm

  I traded my old Porsche in for an Acura TSX Tech with the 6 cylinder engine. The front wheel drive took a while to get used to but no problem. The car has plenty of zip and is very comfortable. The stereo is very good and its nice to be able to really hear my music. Bottom line is, while its no Porsche (there is no substitute) it is a fun, sporty car that is quick, corners well and has room for my golf clubs. Love the car.

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  Good value for money - 2009 Acura TSX
  By AcuraCU2 - December 14 - 12:50 pm

  If youre cost conscious, fuel miser, but yet want a sporty, upscale, reliable, practical and techie car, this is the right car for you. I get 31mpg on long trips, Navigation and traffic reports are very useful. Acceleration is pretty smooth up to 100mph (umm...so Ive heard ) Looks nice and modern inside and out, and top notch fit and finish. The car is no slouch, but the car feels faster than it really is when its moving. Overall, great value for money and should last a long time. I came from the 1st gen TSX, and this car feels more upscale.

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  What a great car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Hammer - December 6 - 10:01 am

  I purchased a TSX 4 cyl in Sep of this year. I have driven it approx 10,000 miles to date. More than normal for us. The reason I wanted to write this review is because I have no complaints about this car. It is the best vehicle I have ever purchased. Im 60 yrs young and I had many new cars (ie. Chevys, Fords, Volvo, Saabs, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Honda, Nissan etc.), but this is by far the best Ive had. I got 37 miles per gallon driving this vehicle on the interstate at 65 mph. I have yet to get under 30 mph with in town and driving home in the country. WOW now to me that is great! I could sell these cars.