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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  What a deal! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By brenob - May 18 - 10:00 am

  I looked at several others entry level luxury-sport cars. The 330Ci, G35, C320 Sports Coupe, and others. The TSX was more fun, had better fuel efficiency, better features, and (except for the 330Ci) better handling and road feel. Plus the included features like dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats, and sunroof were standard, not extra. If youre thinking about getting this car I would DEFINITELY go with the navigation option. The navigation is amazing, the 8" LCD touchscreen is amazing, and the voice activation lets you keep your hands on the wheels and eyes on the road!

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  First Acura - 2009 Acura TSX
  By BlueTSX - May 12 - 12:28 am

  Although no one is ever going to be happy and you can never please those who are picky. I enjoy my Acura a lot and I believe that I have made a wise choice. This is my first Acura and I am very happy with this vehicle.

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  Problems with tech pack/nav - 2009 Acura TSX
  By ben - May 10 - 12:12 am

  Bought the car 2009 tsx /tech pack and since the first week noticed problems with the rearview camera - would not turn on despite the car in reverse. Also having problems with the nav syst. Would not activate despite the car being driven. The bluetooth system is not very clear as BMW and has lots of static. The louder the road noise the louder the static gets when you increase the volume to listen while using the bluetooth. Also the nav syst. will not let you pair the phone and this is an ongoing problems. It took Acura regal dealer 5 visits and a call to Acura headquarters to confirm the above issues. They have stated they will replace the system and all should be back to normal. No guarantee.

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  Best Bang for your Buck - 2009 Acura TSX
  By MWTSX - May 5 - 7:07 pm

  Acura did a great job giving performance of a sport car along with comfort and convenience of a luxury car! Its slightly bigger and wider than the old TSX but it comes loaded for the price... I would have had to get so many upgrade packages in other makes to get the base model on the TSX! I didnt get the navigation but it doesnt matter. I had driven other models and Acura gives a nice tight drive with sold performance.

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  I like - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Eazgon - May 4 - 4:50 pm

  When I drive it, I just feel so in control of the car. Its comfortable, the display is intuitive and it just feels like the car is one with you. Sound quality is excellent as well and you can hook up your ipod directly and see a listing of all your songs on the console. There are just so many gizmos to this car. Yes, with 4 cylinders you dont feel that extra umph of power you get from a V6 but its more than enough, especially from city driving. I get 29.4 miles to the gallon (calculated). The backseat feet area can use some more room but its roomier than the IS for sure. All my friends who have been in my car love it as well. Its definitely an excellent value for what you get.

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  Is this really what I waited for? - 2009 Acura TSX
  By myfirstacura - May 2 - 9:20 pm

  Prior to owning my current Acura TSX I owned an 04 Mazda 3 Sport. I wish I had simply kept that car! The TSX is seemingly slower (much heavier than the MZ3) and has a terrible engine rattle, which is widely reported. Dealers are stating this is a "normal" sound. I would probably be happier with the car overall if it had more power and the engine didnt sound like my 1993 Saturn with 180,000 miles on it. There are also tons of rattles in the cabin, which the dealer (of course) can not duplicate.

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  A Great Car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By tjny - April 30 - 3:49 pm

  I bought the TSX with tech package one month ago and could not be happier with it. I traded in a 2003 BMW 325 and enjoy driving this car as much or more than the BMW. It has plenty of power for me and has a nice balance between a luxury ride and a sporty look and feel. I really love all the tech features, especially the sound system and voice-activated controls. I looked at the Lexus IS250 and BMW 328 but neither of them could compare with the price point and value of the TSX in terms of size and features. Anyone who is looking for this size and type of car in the luxury arena should give serious consideration to the TSX.

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  Great Value - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Fun in So Cal - April 30 - 12:36 pm

  A lot of the so called magazine and Web “expert” reviewers need to get their collective heads out of there tailpipes. For some reason it’s fashionable to be negative these days and they go out of there way to be just that about the 2009 TSX. Read the user reviews instead! We are the ones who drive this car on a daily basis and appreciate how well engineered this car truly is. They expect this to be a race car…it’s not… get over it! This is a really fun affordable sport sedan to drive. I test drove everything in the $25-38K range and the TSX offered the most bang for the buck.

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  Great Car! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Cyberbro - April 29 - 10:28 pm

  Love the car, right car for people that like sporty handling but need front wheel drive for the snow. Not fast but can be fun.

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  Best 2009 Car Under $30k - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Ryan - April 29 - 11:49 am

  Spent a lot of time researching TSXs over several months. Driving the 2nd gen compared to the 1st gen was night and day. This is arguably the best car on the market under $30k for what the car offers as standard features. Bought mine 12/31/08, am 5,000 miles in, and still have a smile on my face every time that I drive it. GREAT vehicle for Road trips. Overall, a very economical car. For a smoother ride, I recommend not putting on aftermarket low-profile tires/rims.