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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  Best car for the money - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Fun2drive - January 31 - 5:04 pm

  I am coming off a Mazda 3i 2005 and I loved that car. I was looking at the Honda Accord, Camry SE, and the VW Jetta in addition to the 2008 TSX. I test drove all the above and hands down the TSX drove the best. It was the fastest and the best handling. Besides driving excellent, this car has all the extras (standard) that you would want. My favorites are the Bluetooth and auxiliary input for your iPod. Also, I am not sure what people expect out a stock radio but the TSX’s radio is great. I got the car in black and tinted the windows and this baby looks great. In my opinion the TSX is the best car for the money right now.

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  Impressed - 2008 Acura TSX
  By One Happy Customer - January 31 - 4:38 pm

  I have owned 4 Hondas (3 Accords and 1 Civic), so I knew Acura was an easy choice. However, I have been surprised by the overall superior experience Ive had in driving this car. I also considered the Infiniti G35, BMW 325xi, and Audi A4 but found that with comparable options, their price tags were far too high when compared to the TSX. Solid performance, exceptional build quality, great fuel economy, and brand cache at "value" pricing. Who could ask for more?

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  Fun of owning a TSX - 2009 Acura TSX
  By libster - January 29 - 10:46 pm

  The ads are not aiming at a young, spirited 65 year old male. Previous 2005 TL owner, love the new TSX. Front seat wraps around and supports well, the handling is taut but not to stiff, acceleration is adequate. Back seat a little too tight for 3 men over 170 lbs, the cd should have more than room than 1 disc. Sound quality is crisp on a trip from Boca Raton, FL to Boston average mpg 34.5 excellent, around the city mpg approx. 24. I kept within 70 mph. Good mileage can be achieved, if ego does not get in the way! People on cape cod and in the city have favorably mentioned the new styling. I do not feel add the old model is better, this is new car with a different cachet!

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  Found a winner - 2005 Acura TSX
  By eag - January 25 - 6:33 am

  I have owned BMWs in the past 20 years.The upkeep was quite costly, so I did some research on a new sports car. The TSX was well received by the writers and drivers of the main auto magazines, so I took a test drive. Love at first sight. The 4 cylinder, 200 HP engine has a lot of umph!!Gas mileage averages 28, and at future increases in gasoline approaching the 3 dollar level, this is very good.Im in my 70s and very impressed with this auto. Fun to drive daily.

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  Went Downhill - 2006 Acura TSX
  By not_so_sure - January 23 - 8:31 pm

  I loved the car when I first bought it, but two years later, I am looking to get rid of it. The interior road noise is louder than my truck. The wipers were very streaky from the day I bought the car. The car does not handle well in snow. My leather seats are already wearing out. I drive over 60 miles a day and every day I grow to dislike it a little more. The gas mileage when when I frist bought it averaged between 30-32 MPG, now I am lucky if I can get over 25 MPG. My seats take forever to heat up now, at first they were HOT in a flash. On the plus side, Acura DOES give a lot of options for the money. Very sporty and fun!

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  TSX aka EuroAccord - 2004 Acura TSX
  By tcgrubbs - January 23 - 10:00 am

  Great smooth shifting 6-speed manual; really fun to drive on mountain highway curves.

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  2008 Acura TSX - 2008 Acura TSX
  By RHagel - January 21 - 11:41 pm

  I am extremely happy with my desision. This is a GREAT car. I came from an 06 Mazda 3 and this car is better in almost every sense. To me, the stereo is great. The power is more than adequate and it is just an over all excellent value. For those who may be hesitant, it is almost impossible to not like this car. It may not be your dream ride, but is an excellent compromise.

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  Good Times! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Kingleo - January 20 - 11:03 pm

  This vehicle is beautiful. I waited for the 2006 model to be released and am very glad I did so. The vehicle drives like a dream and has the comfort and technology one would expect of a vehicle costing thousands more. Even though the vehicle "only" has a 4-banger, it is surprisingly quick off the line (Acura has the vehicles total weight in mind, not just the engine.) The interior is well designed and all the fit and finish is immaculate. I have been driving the vehicle for a few days now and find new and fun features that make the daily commute just as enjoyable as the back road joyride. I highly recommend this vehicle!!

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  4 Cylinder Thriller - 2005 Acura TSX
  By SWFloridadriver - January 14 - 3:23 pm

  Acura has sired a 4 cylinder to take on the BMW. Its 200 HP happily thrusts you ahead from the stop lights.Tightness of drive is superb. Fit and finish is at first class standards, though I would have liked to see the wood trim continue to the back seats. Trunk space is masterfully done. This to me is a drivers car with stick shift manumatic or full automatic, sunroof and navigation system which is simply fantastic.

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  It Really Moves - 2008 Acura TSX
  By needanewcar4 - January 14 - 12:56 pm

  After tons of research, and lots of test drives, I chose the TSX because it met my criteria at a reasonable price. Car had to be fun to drive, peppy off the line, comfortable, have lots of gadgets (except navi), reasonable gas mileage, and be reliable. (Previous car was MB C220, which I loved, so it was hard to chose next car. Felt new C class too austere/unrefined on inside for the price.) Ive driven 2,000+ miles since November purchase and have found this to be a great car. It has plenty of power for surface and freeway driving, decent gas mileage (23 mpg), great handling, and super nice interior. No problems at all. This car loves the freeway... best ride and handling at high speed.