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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  6 month update - 2009 Acura TSX
  By highmiles - July 3 - 9:26 am

  Have owned 6M TSX since Jan 1 and put over 12Kmiles on. Pluses - high mileage, pretty fun to drive, initial reliability is as high as I expected. Minuses - low end torque is light, revs about 3100RPM at 72-75mph. My old 2000TL does 2100@80mph. Other - not sure console display sometimes hard to read, CD slot is difficult to manage at highway speed. I am uncomfortable with long service intervals and change my oil at 5K no matter what oil life indicator says. Overall, good dependable, fun to drive car, would definitely consider another one in a few years.

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  Great Choice! Would do it again - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Dude - July 1 - 12:46 pm

  I have had my TSX now about 3 months. I love just about everything on the car - the paddle shifters, the stereo system (try real DVD-As), the ipod usb jack, the backup camera, etc. But most especially the engine - what a sweet little V-4 - I have been getting 27.4 MPG in mixed driving. When I do all highway, I am consistently in the low 30s mpg. Agree the steering feels a little remote, but still drives wonderfully. I looked at BMW 3s and Aud A4s, but the cost was nowhere close (yes, may be better but not $10k better). Who needs a 6 cyl today?

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  Awesome car! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Will - June 29 - 3:24 pm

  I kept going back & forth b/t the TSX and Honda Accord. Glad I went w/ the TSX. Very good pick up for a 4 cyl car (compared to 4 cyl Accord) & great gas mileage. If youre in the market, recommend taking it for a test drive. Also drove an older model RL....such a nice car if you have $. This is my 2nd Acura and Ive had a great experience w/ both. HIGHLY recommend!

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  WOW... - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Mac_Powah - June 29 - 11:03 am

  This is my 2nd Acura (Integra GSR coupe previous), and my 3rd Honda product. I was jealous of anyone that had a TSX because I just knew what a great car it was by previous experience and awesome press raves. I didnt think I could afford one, but I was wrong. Being the enthusiast I am, I of course have the 6 speed model which is absolutely terriffic! Honda is known for their manual trannys, but this is 10 steps ahead...seriously. The exterior is understated, but classy and will look great in 10 years. I am very picky about my cars, and dont want something everyone else has. The TSX is a great jewel of a car that should be a definite consideration for people wanting it all.

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  Good car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By person - June 28 - 3:12 am

  I like the car and you can see whats good about it reading the other reviews. But, I did find a number of problems with my TSX. 1. The sunroof seems to make noises at times. 2. The glove compartment makes rattling noises. 3. The audio display (where the navigation should be for TSXs with the tech package) has a glare at certain times of the day. Sometimes, its to the point you cannot read whats on the display. I have heard that you can get a matte material to place beneath the display to rid of the glare. 4. The front two speakers crackle at certain frequencies. It is, overall, a good vehicle and I am happy that I have purchased it, but there are some problems that should be rectified.

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  Will Never Leave Acura Again - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Ken - June 27 - 10:25 pm

  Had an 06 TSX and traded it for a pre-owned 06 Mercedes E350. Immediately started having problems with the Benz. Traded back to an 09 TSX w/Tech and have never been happier. Yes, suspension is a little rough but I love the feel of the road and the fun it is to drive. Ill never leave Acura again.

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  TSX Infatuation - 2005 Acura TSX
  By luvmytsx - June 26 - 7:33 pm

  I am totally in love with this car. It accelerates quickly, handles very well even in heavy rain. The navi is great, especially in areas with lots of one way streets, or when to get home is different than getting to a location. As a pragmatist that wants luxury it fits the bill with the performance I want and the comfort and style to boot. Im getting 23.9 miles per gallon in heavy DC traffic.

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  Best car I have ever owned - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Fokker70 - June 25 - 10:00 am

  I have just over 4500 miles in a short 5 month period. The car is a joy to comute in, to travel in, to drive around the block. I couldnt be happier with it as of right now. Carbon Grey w/Black Interior is suprising cool in the hot summer months, but even it wasnt, the hvac system is so powerful, it would cool it down in mere seconds. Great Carb

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  Our 3rd TSX - 2010 Acura TSX
  By D hoffman - June 25 - 9:02 am

  Just bought 3rd TSX. Trade was 2007 TSX. First 2010 in our area. Much improved. Better ride and handling. Better nav. Has 2.4 engine auto. paid 31100. Trade 21800.

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  Hot looking car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Azul - June 23 - 1:05 pm

  I got my TSX almost a year ago now and I get a lot of compliments from ppl. I didnt get the nav sys because it was way more expensive that just buying a separate one if you dont have one already. The brake pads were defective, it started making the annoying squeaky noise after only 4 months. The bracket that holds the trunk door went out of place because some wire was not connected properly, so it wouldnt open with the remote control. They were both fixed under warranty at no cost. Great service, just inconvenient to spend a couple of hours each time to fix a new car.