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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  Simply Amazing! - 2012 Acura TSX
  By nitish17 - February 10 - 5:39 pm

  I recently bought a lightly used 2012 TSX w/ Tech Package and I couldnt be happier with it. Everything people mentioned about it in earlier reviews is absolutely spot on. The more I drive it, the more I appreciate the efficiency of it. The handling is like that of a sports car with very nimble steering response and smooth acceleration off rest point. I would mention that getting the Tech package is well worth the money since it would really bring up the oomph factor of the handsomely designed cabin.

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  Bad Milano Red Paint, Acura Reluctant to Fix - 2005 Acura TSX
  By doug_g - November 6 - 7:20 pm

  Car drives great but Acura does not want to stand behind its very poor quality paint. Whatever you do, DO NOT BUY A RED ONE!!! Unless of course you like pink cars. The assistance they offered for a repaint job only covered 1/4 of the cost. Dont forget that it take premium fuel too. Costs much more than a Honda to own.

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  Bitter Sweet - 2009 Acura TSX
  By bstern92 - September 10 - 3:39 pm

  The exterior design is very sporty and clean. The chunky 5 spoke rims are hideous. The drivers seat is very comfortable and I love the lumbar adjustment, but I dont get why they dont have it on the passenger seat. The passenger seat is almost unbearable to sit in, compared to the drivers seat. The rear seats have absolutely no leg room and your foot gets caught under the front seat, when getting out of the car. Leather is cheap. The drivers seat is already cracking. The steering wheel has a very cozy feel to it. The cars steering is responsive and the 2.4l provides adequate power. The car is amazing on the highway. I would probably not get another. Im considering a 2013 nissan Maxima

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  Solid a a Rock! - 2007 Acura TSX
  By triniacura - August 6 - 4:48 pm

  Just rolled 100k in my 07 Tsx and I couldnt be happier! I picked the car up 3 years ago with 30k on it! I drive ALOT! And have put over 20k a year on the car including 2500mi round trips from Orlando to Toronto! Car has NEVER skipped a beat on me! Regular maintenance performed only! In the past 3 years I have spent around $500 in maintenance? Oil changes only and a brake job performed by Sears. The car is bone simple to work on! ( Honda core ) Dont even bother taking it to the dealer! Sears, Jiffy Lube, Mobile, Just about anyone can work on this car. The way it drives you wouldnt know it had 100k on the odometer . Shes itching for another 100k problem free!

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  Absolutely AMAZING car! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By deepen03 - April 14 - 12:27 pm

  Had this car in family since 2004. Purchased it used in September 2004, for around 24k, with 20k miles on it. I started driving it myself in 2006 when I first got my license and have put over 50K miles on it myself. Just a well-built awesome Acura. Its sad how the TSX has become such lower quality in the 2nd generation models. I just love this car in ever way and have no complaints at all. I have 104k miles right now and plan to keep it going to 200K if I can!

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  9 year owner of TSX - 2004 Acura TSX
  By lamike1 - March 31 - 2:38 pm

  I wrote my first review on my TSX back in 2008. Since then Ive out another 60k miles on it. I bought it brand new in 2004. Dont hesitate to buy one of these, they are reliable. I never did anything but my normal maintenance (oil changes, fluid changes, timing chain at 100k miles, brake jobs, etc...) the car never gave me one problem ever. I finally parted with my TSX yesterday and sold her. It was just time for a new car. She was at 130k miles when I told her good bye! Lol great car, Acura did awesome with this thing.

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  Sharp car! - 2013 Acura TSX
  By zoomzoomn - March 28 - 7:30 am

  I got the TSX SE primarily because of an agressive lease deal. Overall its s a really fun car in search of being a really great car. While the chassis is willing and the interior is very attractive (in SE trim), the four cylinder drivetrain and lack of the technology package (on the SE) leaves me wanting. Its been awhile since I had driven an Acura. The recent "beak" phase in their styling department is thankfully and slowly becoming a travesty best left as a faded memory. The TSXs styling is crisp and attractive from pretty much every angle. The SE trim only adds to this, especially on the interior. From the red accents to the anthracite headliner, it is a very attractive package.

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  Used 07 TSX was a good move - 2007 Acura TSX
  By jg88 - March 12 - 11:17 am

  Bought this car used two years ago for my daughter to drive and its going very well. Very solid build quality. Believe Acura missed on its replacement in comparison. Acura also did a realy nice job by including everything one could want as standard equipment. The Germans fail miserably at this. We also looked into the Audi a4 fwd and the BMW 3 series and it was hard to find similarly equipped cars anywhere close to the TSX. In testing them, neither blew away the TSX, in fact, in daily driving, the TSX was more than a worthy competitor. It handled better than the a4 and ride/steering is better than the 3. FWD did not seem to me to hurt it and I like FWD for poor weather.

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  TSX V6, no navigation - 2012 Acura TSX
  By mountainroad76 - February 15 - 1:53 pm

  I wanted a good sounding engine, reliability, and refinement as the three dominating factors in that order. I was sick and tired of hearing a nasty exhaust, the constant problems, and lack of refinement that my inherited 04 explorer had. This Acura is better in every way except cargo/seating capacity that I never needed. It is especially fun to drive it begs you to drive it hard. The deep, refined growl of the engine is priceless, though the effervescent purring of the I4 would have satisfied me. Handling is excellent, but the ride is quite stiffer than a Lexus, and it is louder at high speeds. At least you wont fall asleep! Not a great city commuter, but very fun for highway/mountainous.

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  Best car ever. - 2004 Acura TSX
  By jesse357 - February 12 - 10:24 pm

  This is without a doubt the best car I have ever had. Always puts a smile on my face. Flawless quality. Not one single problem in 100,000 miles. Over 30 mpg on highway and maybe 25 in city. Im 45 and have always driven cars with Manual Transmission and they simply do not come any better. The snickt snickt feeling of that tranmission and turbine smooth vtec cannot be matched by anything I have had since. Acceleration and handling just top notch as close to BMW territory as you can get with front wheel drive but with much better reliability and handling in weather. Sold when I went overseas and will buy another when I get back to states. Just absolutely perfect.