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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  Outstanding Car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Ualboy2 - January 2 - 3:40 am

  This is a outstanding car. The interior quality is refined and conveys quality. Nav is easy to use and the gauges are cool looking. The ELS sound system is truly fantastic. The car has plenty of power for Its size, and when I tell people its only a 4 cyl. They cant believe it. I personally love the new exterior look. It looks aggressive but classy. The steering is not as bad as some reviews have stated, and really you would need to be on a track to notice any difference. I will admit the ride can be a bit stiff, so if you are looking for a cushy ride, this may not be the car for you. This car has an outstanding value compared to BMW, and Audi. A+ Acura love this car

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  "Best of Breed" - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Vikram V. - December 27 - 10:53 am

  Coming from a long line of Civics (parents bought me a new 98 Civic LX sedan my freshman year of college, moved on to a 03 Civic LX coupe, then a 03 Civic LX sedan, and finally a 99 Civic EX coupe) you would think buying an Acura would be a no-brainer. My next car was going to be a 06-07 WRX, however I wasnt ready to buy one in 06 and I couldnt land a good deal on an 07. I test drove the 6-speed TSX and was sold, offers luxury and refinement ALONG WITH great looks and sporty handling. People complain about the power, but with the closely geared 6-speed transmission I really dont think Id need any more power unless I was tracking the car. I love this car!

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  Great car - annoying flaw - 2007 Acura TSX
  By billtheprinter - December 25 - 10:23 pm

  This is a very fun car. Just the right amount of luxury for me. I sell for a living so I have to look a certain way, but it isnt ostentatious at all - I like that. Just the right amount of power in my opinion but you have to be used to the no-torque Honda way of engine building. Fantastic in snow! Weve had a week of BAD snowpacked roads, and between the traction control and the ABS, theres been no need for chains or 4wd.

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  Meet the New Boss! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By dag14qb - December 25 - 6:30 pm

  The New TSX is nothing like the old one, it has sharp crisp lines, ground effects, beautiful wheels, and a very aggressive look. The first think I noticed is the Cockpit, with the new gauges, revamped center console, and the Navigation screen now indented into dash, there is no "cabin" feel to the car, it feels like a cockpit! The ride is amazing as well, if i drove it blindfolded i would swear it was a six cylinder. The 09 actually has 4 less hp than my old 05, yet it is faster due to more torque. I am completely enthralled by this vehicle, it is as dramatic a change as i have ever seen since i test drove the 04 TL when compared to the 03 TL. This is a beautiful car inside and out

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  owner for 3 weeks and loving it!! - 2008 Acura TSX
  By T-Force - December 23 - 10:54 pm

  I had a Jeep Wrangler for 11yrs, & wanted something in this class. I looked at the Audi A4, BMW328, G35, & thought the Acura was the best all- around car. CPO, 14k miles. Ive had for 3 weeks & have been very happy. Its been an early winter so far, & the car has generally been great in the snow (this was my main reason for contemplating the AWD models like A4).

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  This Car does NOT dissapoint - 2006 Acura TSX
  By jungmt - December 9 - 11:00 pm

  I have looked at this car for 2 years until I was ready to buy and believe me it was worth the wait. I also drove the Accord V6 6 speed and it was nice, but the TSX is a better looking car, comes with a beter warranty and much nicer interior and better transmission. If you want speed only, buy the Accord. I didnt bother with the BMW 3 series because of reliability - ditto for the Audi. The Lexus IS is nice, but more expensive. If I want more power, I will get the ECU reflash, header, cold air intake ect. This is a great car - the best combination of reliability, style, performance and value out there.

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  08 TSX Drivers Delight - 2008 Acura TSX
  By TRB - December 9 - 7:52 pm

  I found this to be a joy to drive from the moment I test drove it in crisp Alaska October. The handling has been great even on snowy roads. All I hope for now is just a tad bit more thrust, say an additional 75 horses would be nice. I have had a few issues with the hands free but over all love the car, and the deal I got made me felt I stole it.

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  Great Car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By A - November 30 - 10:20 pm

  This car is the perfect car for long commutes and short city driving. It is comfortable and handles beautifully. I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  Go Acura - 2004 Acura TSX
  By lxlsamiamlxl - November 28 - 11:26 pm

  Excellent vehicle with the service to match. Traded out of a 97 Passat VR6 and have yet to look back on the decision.

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  Great Car - 2004 Acura TSX
  By keith82 - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Had the TSX for about two weeks now and have to say its a great car. I looked at other cars such as the 3 series, A4, accord V6 coupe, saab 93 and decided to go with the TSX because of the quality, standard features and price.