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 - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Terry Flynn - June 20 - 8:54 am

  Very economical for a luxury brand. 25 MPH in city. High in quality. One problem is that it takes premium gas. Excellent pick up. Third Acura I have owned. Other two were Integras. Will always stick with Acura.

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  Bought it brand new 4 years ago - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Mike - June 13 - 3:14 pm

  I bought my car in May of 2004. It was not disappointed me at all. I absolutely love it. It handles great, is very comfortable, and beyond anything gets great gas mileage. For a 4 cylinder to give me 200 horse power is also good. Im over 83000 miles right now and still riding great. Bottom line is if you are thinking of buying a used version of one of these then go for it. Trust me its worth it.

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  A great ride with all the goodies - 2006 Acura TSX
  By sportscarlover - June 12 - 6:03 am

  I bought my car in the last week of December. I started my search from BMW 3 Series, but realized it was out of my price range.One day I test drove TSX and loved it immediately. The car has very beautiful, rich interior - looks very sporty. My car came fully loaded with features like heather leather seats, XM radio, bluetooth etc. Engine could use some more power but in sport-shift mode (auto tranny), its fast enough. TSX has confident handling. Suspension and steering provide sharp cornering and good road-feel. I cant think of any other car that gives more bling for your buck.

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  New to Acura - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Aaron - June 10 - 11:56 am

  I have owned a 2005 TSX about a month now and enjoy driving it every time. I have taken it through its paces and it handles nimbly and with ease. I do find the seats to be a bit uncomfortable on long trips and the gear shift a bit cheap feeling, especially when in sport shift mode. Overall, I feel the quality and reliability to be one of its strong points. I chose this car over the Audi A4 due to its standard features, reliability and performance. It looks really cool in black with tinted windows.

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  Auto, no nav - Very, very happy - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Woof - June 9 - 2:52 pm

  After nearly a year, Im still very happy with my TSX. It was the best blend of features I wanted at a great price (i.e., handling, fun to drive, good fuel economy, safety features). It moves well and emergency handling has been great. Its also a good size for city driving and has all the oomph I need. Im appreciating it more and more all the time.

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  Awesome car!!! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By trevmann - June 4 - 10:03 am

  I just picked up my new 09 TSX this afternoon, and I think Im in love! This car is absolutely amazing! I traded in my 08 TSX because I loved the new styling of this car so much. The new 09 seems to drive even smoother than the 08, seems to handle better, and the audio system is definitely improved. I had no complaints about my 08, I just really liked the new design. I really like the backup camera in the new 09, I like the Acuralink feature on the new 09, and the interior and exterior design is definitely on par! I am very pleased with Acuras new design!

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  Fun to drive!!!!!!! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By wanggo - June 4 - 10:00 am

  I got a manual tsx and this baby can really howl!!!! Its fun to take the tach all the way near the red line. I love the deep howl the exhaust makes. Awesome handling, very taut and quick

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  Jason - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Jason - June 2 - 2:14 pm

  I previously owned a Saturn and the upgrade to the Acura TSX has been unbelievable. I have not had a single problem with the car. Not only is it much more comfortable but I am currently getting 31 mpg with highway only driving. This does drop to 22-25 with mixed highway/city driving in dallas but I have very little to complain about with this car for the cost.

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  TSX forever - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Robert E - June 1 - 9:03 am

  My 2005 TSX handles like a dream. In the 3 years I have owned it, it has never given me a moments problem. I do the routine maintenance and in return I have a car that I can rely on 100%. By far the best car I have ever owned

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  This is a special sports sedan - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Bob in Beaufort SC - May 31 - 1:21 pm

  The steering, transmission, clutch and the running gear are all in tune. This is a very solid sports car feel, in a small sedan, still with ample room for 4 people. Having had Hondas since 1986, this was a major step up for me, and the car is solid, planted and fun to drive. Too bad that it has to use premium gas, buy thats the way Honda gets 205 HP out of the 2.4L four cylinder. This is a drivers car, with a nicely snubbed-up ride that is not harsh.