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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  Truly A Great Automobile - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Acura Driver - August 12 - 10:00 am

  We have two Acuras, a CL Type S and the TSX. We drove a TSX loaner for two days and compared it against the new Mazda 3 and 6, the new Subaru GT Turbo, the 04 Acura TL, the 04 Accord V6, the Infiniti G35, the Lexus IS300, and some others. The TSX is the best driving and handling by far. It also has the best seats, outward vision, and features and safety set. And all this comes for the lowest price except the Mazda 3. Everything works extremely well and all the switch gear is typical Acura with a high quality feel. The dash illumination is simply georgous. Sporty, fun-to-drive, fast and real-world torquey, you cannot buy a better automobile in the small mid-size class. A real winner!

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  Great step-up from the Accord - 2009 Acura TSX
  By howardhonda - August 10 - 4:30 pm

  I have only had this car for 10 days. 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. I was planning since last year to buy myself another EX-L Accord (4- cyl) 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 seats, home-link, and directional signals on outside mirrors that you couldnt even get on a loaded 4cy EX-L Accord. In my opinion, the car is so much more solid & luxurious than the Accord. And the gauges and trip computer are awesome!

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  Fantastic car - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Isabella - August 10 - 12:16 am

  Has been a blast to own. Very fun to drive, solid car. Only issue is the backseat is a little tight.

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  Awesome Performance! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Performance King - August 6 - 10:00 am

  This is no doubt an incredible vehicle from an incredible manufacturer. I love my Acura TSX. I used to drive a 63 Gerbil Hatchback with an 8-Track...wow, what a difference! My old Gerbil had 48 horsepower which I thought was a lot...it did 0-60 in 42 seconds....not my TSX! 0-60 comes in way under 8 seconds! Pure performance, handling and power!

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  Amazing:) - 2009 Acura TSX
  By lovin my TSX:) - August 5 - 12:19 pm

  I traded my 2007 Mazda Miata for a 2009 Acura TSX. I thought I would miss the sporty feel the Miata had...but boy was I wrong. I love my TSX. I have only had it about 2 months...but it is amazing:)Plus all the bells & whistles are pretty nice. And the gas mileage is great...I actually got 38.1 mpg on the interstate during an hour and half drive. Usually around town it gets between 28.5-32 mpg. I definitely would recommend this car to anyone.:) Great buy for your money!

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  Solid Performance Sedan - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Alex - August 5 - 11:27 am

  Just purchased this car. A used 08 with 20K on the odometer. What sold me was the incredible build quality, handling, comfort and the performance of the 2.4L VTEC engine. This is a fantastic sport/luxury sedan. Clean lines and no "fast and furious" body work. Im used to an AWD sedan so Im a little concerned about this cars bad weather handling with the Michelin Pilots. Have to wait and see. So far in the dry heat and heavy thunderstorms of summer, its handled very well. The car inspires you to test its limits. The VTEC is very eager to rev and run.

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  Excellent Blend of Sport and Technology - 2010 Acura TSX
  By CarGuy - August 4 - 10:17 pm

  The TSX V6 Tech is a true pleasure to drive - great performance, awesome technology, comfort & build quality. Only have 600 miles so far. Compared to my 2003 BMW 330i w/Sport package, and dealer experiences - this is a great car and an improvement in dealer service as well as refined performance. Everyone compliments the "lines"/ style of the car - coworkers and strangers. Its very quiet, so watch your speed! 1st two tanks were 23 mpg - combo local/highway.

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  Not good on gas - 2007 Acura TSX
  By langstonboy04 - August 3 - 12:42 pm

  I love the car but I hate the gas it use! 16.5 MPG In the city is not GOOD!! And that is with prem fuel. Car does drive well. I had a suv with a v8 to do better But i do love the way the car looks and drives. But be ready to pay a lot for gas and it will drink it up.

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  Never again will I buy a brand new model - 2009 Acura TSX
  By BAG - August 2 - 10:46 am

  I have had so many problems with the interior quality sometimes I think I bought an American car... over the past year Ive had two blown audio speakers, loose defroster vent, two trunk rattles, Navi screen control unit failure, loose exterior windshield molding and a rattle coming from the dashboard that the dealer cant seem to locate/fix. The only thing keeping me sane is that the deal provides a loaner car every time I bring in my car for service (which is about once per month).

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  Love It! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Jerrold - July 31 - 11:24 pm

  Ive had two Audi A4s and a Ford Fusion, all of which I liked very much. However, for the money, the Acura TSX is the best car Ive had. Excellent fuel economy, great features, nice design, and Honda/Acura reliability made this a no-brainer to buy. I, like many, am not overly thrilled with the electronic steering, and it took some getting used to. Frankly, now, however, I dont notice that its any different from any other car Ive driven. Its really only noticeable on highways city driving is just like any other.