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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13 years with a Mercedes, now my Acura - 2009 Acura TSX
By Bru - April 7 - 4:42 pmI leased a Mercedes C280 sedan new in 96 then bought out my lease. I had considered replacing it since about 03, looked for a new car every so often but couldnt find a worthy replacement, test drove many cars. This TSX was love at first sight. I had no idea Acura had redesigned the TSX until I visited the dealership - old one was a little too small & plain for me. Love It! Awesome! Fun! Intuitive! I feel like Im driving the best looking car (definitely under 50K!) on the road. Honda/Acura reliability, 0-60 faster than the inline-6 Benz I sold, handles great, all the gadgets you want. Didnt get the tech package because a 6 disc changer is so 90s and I want a portable NAV. Cool!
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Great car - 2009 Acura TSX
By no - April 6 - 8:10 pmI was a confirmed small car driver but this car has changed my mind, it is not the big slow mid size but a taste of luxury I was not expecting at the price point. It is smooth and effortless to drive and gets me 31mph which is close to my old mini.
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Amazing - 2004 Acura TSX
By jonesab4 - April 5 - 10:00 amComplete luxury car feel without luxury car price. Plenty fast and a ton of standard features.
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Nice Car - 2009 Acura TSX
By bhel - April 3 - 4:26 amMy wifes car, but I drive it frequently. For the most part, I like it and it is a nice step up from the RSX she had. My one complaint is the drivers seat lumbar support... it hits just too high on the back and it isnt really possible to dial it back enough to really find a comfortable setting for the seat. This would not be my choice of car for a longer journey. Otherwise, it is quiet, plenty powerful, and offers good road feel. Steering is a little light but one gets used to it. Id prefer an easier to read set of dash readouts.... black on gray isnt as good as my Accord which has brighter displays.
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LOVE 09 TSX - 2009 Acura TSX
By Stephanie - April 1 - 1:09 pmI had been looking for a car for several months. When the new body style was released I fell in love. I use my vehicle to drive to and from work and school. She (my TSX) has taken good care of me. I look forward to getting in my vehicle every morning, traffic or not she is amazingly comfortable.
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Even better than Honda !!! - 2004 Acura TSX
By GaryGrach - March 31 - 10:00 amJust love this car all its gadgets.
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Great car, room for improvement - 2004 Acura TSX
By genejockey777 - March 31 - 10:00 amGreat character this car has despite the NYTs review regarding lackluster "spirit". However admittedly the exterior needs a little more "wow" to match the wonderful powertrain and handling characteristics of this front-driver. If you like understated capability - that is, not going out of your way to draw attention to your confident self - then this is the vehicle for you. Great to drive in town and on the highway. Gas mileage does not seem to be as good as everyone claims, but maybe its just the way I drive it. Or perhaps the gas gauge is just more accurate than in my old GM vehicle. Some interior rattles noted.
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Very satisfied - 2006 Acura TSX
By rabbit - March 30 - 11:32 pmThe mileage estimate I think is low - even in Seattles stop and go traffic I range from 30mpg and upwards, at times 35! My fourth Acura and I remain committed to the brand. Great handling, smooth ride, comfortable.
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Acura owner for life... stop debating, buy - 2009 Acura TSX
By George - March 15 - 8:18 pmI owned a Mitsu Eclipse GT for 7 years and put 148K miles (ZERO problems with that car). After contemplating whether to finally buy "my tsx" or continue driving the eclipse, there was no question once I got in. The seats hug you, the interior is nicely laid out and stylish. Good visibility inside the car, love the headlights too. The car grabs the road around turns and cruises down the highway. Even when I hammer on the car, I get no less than 28mpg. When I pay attention to real time mileage, I can get 32mpg. There is a certain power band and it doesnt start until 3500rpms. DO NOT race anyone from a light... the car stumbles at the drop of the clutch until about 2K rpm.
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asdf - 2006 Acura TSX
By cassper - March 11 - 8:26 amfun to drive, enjoy to drive. love navi. chick magnet. cannot go anywhere without being asked how much I bought this car for....
