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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  Great Car All Things Considered - 2004 Acura TSX
  By TXPDelta - July 11 - 4:37 pm

  I love this car even in spite of some quality control issues on the 1st year model. 4 clutch cylinders later and now almost no peddle popping. Other minor issues with door water leak, brake discs, door panel vibrations, and dash squeaks. The car strikes a wonderful balance of daily driver characteristics with solid handling and a near perfect 4 cyl engine. I drove plenty of cars before I bought the TSX and this is the best sedan I found. Not quite a BMW 3-series, but it is the closest youll get for under $30K. Fuel economy is around 23-25 MPG mixed driving with synthetic fluids, Injen air intake, and 93 oct fuel.

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  Youll love it - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Kathy - July 10 - 6:11 pm

  After owning three minivans I purchased my TSX. I love it. It obviously does not have the room of a minivan but I seldom needed that much room anyway. I am getting 37 MPG on the highway. Ive had the car for over a year now and still say "I love my car" when I get in it. My husband wanted a six cylinder of some sort but with the price of gas skyrocketing, hes pretty happy I didnt budge on my pick. I wish I could afford to put the other three drivers in my family in one. The two teenagers would love it and my husband would appreciate the mileage.

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  Amazing car for the price! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Matt - July 10 - 3:16 pm

  Excellent car for the price, and its loaded with options as well! Great entry level luxury car!

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  What a mistake you shouldnt make - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Katie - July 9 - 5:43 pm

  I got this car in 2006 and until now regret it every single day. This is the loudest car I have ever driven. The body was built very lousy that you can hear wind noise, road noise and just about everything else OUTSIDE of the car. When talking to the people in the back seat, I literally have to YELL every time. Windshield very thin, cracked and got replaced 2 times (with original Acura windshield). Watch out for the speaker, the first 2 months it sounded great but gone down so fast and I turned to hate listen to music while Im driving. The worst part is about to come, if you purchase this car, be aware that you will lose about 12K once you want to trade it in.

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  College Toy - 2008 Acura TSX
  By phawk590 - July 8 - 10:25 pm

  Though I miss it greatly, I traded in my Tahoe z71 due to gas prices. As a serious car buff i searched long and hard for a good car to purchase that i could take to college. Factors included attractiveness, performance, gas mileage, comfort, resale value, MSRP, and expected yearly cost including gas. The TSX has filled its position nicely, performing and driving better than my girlfriends 2009 model. My notes are as follows allow a break in period as it is required to get to peak performance, 65-70 on a flat trip you will get well over 30 mpg, the car does turn heads, the leather on the seats creases easily, the kick plates will chip quickly, and it is well worth it to add a cold air intake.

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  Very nice - 2005 Acura TSX
  By bob - July 6 - 8:03 pm

  For about $500 more than the accord v6, you get a much nicer vehicle and service.

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  A nice step up after owning 2 Accords - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Andrew - July 1 - 9:57 pm

  After a 92 and 98 Accord, I decided to upgrade to the Acura TSX. So far after almost 6 months I am not disappointed. This car is fun to drive and sporty, yet still gets awesome mileage (I have gotten mid 30s on pure highway). Commuting mileage is OK and can get mid 20s. For the price you get so many features found in many higher level models. Audio is OK, but not the cars high point. However almost all the features can be found on the new 8th gen Accord (minus HID headlights and bluetooth phone), in a much bigger but more powerful car. Above all, this car is a Honda. Dependable, great resale value, laundry list of standard features.

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  Its not a BMW - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Mudit Tandon - June 29 - 11:26 pm

  This car does everything well, and theres nothing wrong with it on paper. Unfortunately, theres nothing exciting about it in real life - a jack of all trades. I was in the market for a BMW 325, an Audi A4 1.8T and a TSX. I drove all three, and was not very impressed with the way the Audi drove. The TSX gave me everything I wanted in a car and more for 3K less. I wish I had paid that 40 bucks a month more to get a 3 series. I am looking to trade my car in in less than a year. Dont get me wrong - this is an OUTSTANDING car for the 27 odd you spend. Tremendous value - Its certainly a great alternative to a Camry. But if youre comparing it with a 325... spend the extra 3k.

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  Little motor that could - 2008 Acura TSX
  By TCC0247 - June 29 - 9:11 am

  The TSX is a study in less being more. It may only have 205-hp and a 4-cylinder, but the power delivery is so smooth and the revs come so quickly that it feels quick none the less. Itll never win you pink slips, but it will certainly move you on the back roads. Its not RWD, but it still feels supple and balanced. Steering is too heavy for the Camry crowd, but enthusiasts will appreciate the extra weight and feel. The 6-speed and clutch are so slick and easy to use that the car is easy to wring out when the desire arises (or every time you drive it). The interior build quality is excellent, though the sound system is flat. Never liked Hondas before the TSXs Euro-breeding fixed that

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  Extremely Happy! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By amora14 - June 26 - 3:55 pm

  I purchased the Acura TSX a week ago, my prior car was the Ford Focus. I was going to get the Fusion but I wanted a car that could stand alone. I decided to go with the 2005 model because it had most everything the o8 had in it for almost half the price. The navigation system is awesome. I love to drive the car at night and night time use to be what I would dread. The car handles well around corners and when I come to a stop it so smooth! I did not realize Acura held the prestige in this car that it does. Excellent vehicle!