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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  09 TSX Review Plus - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Hajimoto - September 26 - 7:23 am

  Downers: navi glare, fuel economy 27.5 highway only (mountains). Car is overwhelming in first 24 hours, but quickly becomes more fun to drive the longer I own it. The many features to learn can be intimidating.

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  Best Buy for the Buck - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Markus Heinrich - September 23 - 12:33 am

  My 97 CL has 200,000 miles without incident so it was natural for me to buy another Acura. I wasnot dissapointed. With the 6M it accelerates quickly, handles well and is a joy to drive. Only complaint is the the black leather gets extremely hot in summer. OUCH.

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  LOVE It! - 2010 Acura TSX
  By antoniokelley - September 22 - 12:54 pm

  When I first test drove this vehicle I knew there was something very unique about this vehicle. It handles a lot like its German counterparts...but without the extra cost. Ive heard 2010 models improved on this from the 2009 models. Ive test driven other entry level luxury brands and none had all the features that the tsx had as low of a price as the tsx. Acuras are known for having the highest resale value among luxury brands and this one will be no exception! Trust me, the pictures do not do this car justice. Go to an acura dealer and test drive one and you will also fall in love.

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  9 month update - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Acura_Numbr_2 - September 19 - 9:52 pm

  Have had car for 9 mos. 17.5K miles averaging 29-31 mpg. I change oil every 5K no matter what oil life indicator says. Car runs fine, and fast enough to get a couple of warnings. 6 speed and clutch work fine. Two complaints. 3400 RPM @ 80mph cruising is a little high, my 2000 TL does about 2150RPM at same speed. I still have trouble with headlight pattern, sharp cutoff of light field makes hills exciting when driving in mountain passes.

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  Its a Great Car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By harrison - September 17 - 8:23 pm

  In a nutshell, the tech package is the icing of a great cupcake. The car itself is a inline 4 but its better than my old accord v6. Its not as fast my other tl type s - but the horsepower and torque is not wasted either. Thats what this car is, its the comfort of the tech package (do not get this car without it) with a car thats designed for everyday use with some sport appeal. Its definitely fun to drive, it comes to stock with a stability bar for handling, can you believe that? Its car loaded with value and a fun drive factor to boot. Ive test driven other cars that were reviewed and found this one to be the best.

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  Very nice. Fits like a glove! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By BOZZ - September 8 - 8:33 am

  I’ve had my 09 TSX 5A for 2 weeks. The car does NOT feel as underpowered as some reviews suggest (an extra 20HP wouldn’t hurt). Steering is not bad (could use more feel). The car likes to be driven fast (unlike my old 06 TL 6M which suffered from serious torque steer and an unhappiness when driven fast). It is also very comfortable and fits like a glove, everything feels right. Love the features: seats, steering wheel, FI paddle shifters, Bluetooth, USB audio (all cars should have this). HOWEVER, there is excessive dashboard glare that washes out the central display in a lot of driving conditions!! Why on earth would Acura use shiny/tacky material on the dash?

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  Love this car! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By JuliaV - September 6 - 1:16 am

  I traded in my 2000 Accord sedan. I agonized over the TSX or a new Accord. In the end I chose the TSX because of the following: better warranty/reputation, classier looks, TSX is FUN to drive (handles curves better than my old accord ever dared, brakes much better...TSX feels peppy), feels more luxurious, and I dont see zillions of TSXs on the road. I havent regretted my decision for one second (and I am bad to second guess everything!)

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  GREAT Car! - 2010 Acura TSX
  By HOWARDHONDA - September 4 - 9:41 am

  I have had this car now for about 5 weeks (1,900 miles). For myself, over the past 25 years I have only purchased Honda Accords (all manual trans.). My last 2 have been EX-L and I have always been happy with them. For the past year I had been planning to purchase for myself another Honda Accord EX-L and just by chance I checked out the TSX. I loved it. It came with everything, factory installed, even options like memory seats, passenger power seat, home-link, and directional signals on outside mirrors that you couldnt even get on a loaded 4-cyl EX-L Accord. The TSX is more solid & luxurious than the Accord. And the gauges and trip computer are awesome! Plus the sales person was great!

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  Great Car - 2010 Acura TSX
  By MM - September 3 - 2:33 pm

  I recently bought the 2010 TSX and it has exceeded my expectations so far. I love the interior and exterior styling as well as all of the standard equipment. I looked at all of the other sedans (BMW, Audi, Lexus) prior to making my purchase and they just dont compare in terms of value for your money. Ive only had the car a short time but Ive gotten a ton of unsolicited compliments. Do yourself a favor and test drive one. The car has decent pickup for a daily commuting car and it is fun to drive.

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  Fun + Value = TSX - 2007 Acura TSX
  By SouthernDriver - September 2 - 1:13 pm

  The TSX is really a very solid car. I was pleased when I purchased it and am now downright happy when I drive it. It represents a perfect blend of power and efficiency. If you dont hog-dog it around town, mid 20s is easily attainable, and on the highway Ive averaged 30-33mpg. The features are useful and easy to operate, the interior fit and finish is outstanding, right down the satisfying "thud" of the doors closing. The stereo stands out among "premium" stereos because of its balance - too often premium stereos overemphasize bass to the detriment of the mid and high ranges. Here the bass is present, but gets out of the way for vocals and instruments. Not just a rebagded Accord.