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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  5 years later, still loving it - 2004 Acura TSX
  By jcg878 - January 13 - 10:29 am

  Ive had my TSX for 5 years now, and I still love driving it. The car handles as well as when I first bought it - actually better since I replaced the stock tires 10,000 miles ago. It is fun to drive with a comfortable and intuitive interior that hasnt shown much wear. According to Edmunds used car appraiser, it has held its value well also. With a new baby on the way, my wife and I are currently battling about which car to replace - her 2003 Passat, or my TSX. My only TSX-related complaint is that Acura/Honda doesnt make a wagon version. Well look at the RDX, but a TSX/TL/Accord wagon is really what wed prefer. Its been a good buy.

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  Fun to Drive - 2006 Acura TSX
  By MikeD - January 11 - 7:30 pm

  Just got the TSX 6sp and enjoy the drive after having a 95 Acura Integra. Great performance, handling and looks. Moderate gas mileage, however, as I expected above 30mpg, and seem to only get about 27mpg on highway. Just noticed significant squeaking in drivers seat, and saw another review on problem with seat rail. Anyone else experiencing problems with seats squeaking? Great car, great performance, and got a great price at my Acura dealership- below invoice. Buy this car, but look at seat noices as you test drive.

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  09 TSX Awesome!!! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By 09 TSX Owner - January 10 - 2:40 pm

  Traded in my 04 Honda Accord for the new 09 TSX. I have had the car for 3 days and I absolutely love it. It has great performance, stylish profile and fast pickup for the 201 hp. The interior is very sleek looking starting with the textured dash, display on dash easy to read, great sounding XM/radio. The bluetooth is so nice and handy, plenty of storage areas and large trunk space. I cannot say enough good things about this car. I give it 10 stars all the way and highly recommend this sleek looking, fun to drive car that will get you 2nd glances everywhere you go.

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  Great car for the $ - 2006 Acura TSX
  By David S. - January 2 - 12:57 pm

  Great car, reliable, frugal on gas, fun to drive, with enough amenities to satisfy anyone in the upscale sedan class.

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  Perfect car at the perfect price - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Mikey - January 1 - 5:48 pm

  Plenty fast enough for daily driving, gives me an average of 33 mpg at 75 mph cruise control on long drives. Its not necessarily "sporty" compared to actual sports cars. It has stone hard economy tires and a soft luxury suspension. So take it for what its worth or upgrade your tires and suspension. Looks are subjective but I still think it looks nicer than most cars even after the 4 years its been in production.

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  For the price, it cant be matched - 2006 Acura TSX
  By gftgrill - December 30 - 3:49 pm

  The 6-speed manual is very smooth shifting. All of the controls are right where I expect them to be. I never have to reach far for anything. Bluetooth hands free connection built into the car. This is a great feature for anyone who drives a manual. I can now answer or make a phone call without ever having to remove my left hand from the steering wheel or my right hand from the shifter.

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  Amazing - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Dan - December 30 - 2:59 pm

  It has the right amount of luxury and sportiness. I dont know what it lacks - its even fuel efficient. It comes with a 205HP engine which provides enough power for anything one needs to do legally on the road.

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  First import - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Timd38 - December 30 - 9:01 am

  It does nothing really special, but does nothing poorly. The longer I have it, the more I like it. I bought it looking for cheap car that was also reliable with good resales. It does all that and more.

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  Great Bang for the Buck! - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Nogard13 - December 30 - 8:18 am

  I decided on the TSX after looking at the BMW 3 series, the Lexus IS 250, and the Infiniti G35 Sedan. Compared to the other three models, the TSX offered all the creature comforts I wanted for 6K less than the G35 and Lexus and 10K less than the 328i. Really easy choice to make, even after driving the other three cars twice each. While the TSX doesnt have the speed and pick-up of the BMW or the Infinity, the engine is more than adequate for my style of driving (mostly city with some road trips now and then). My MPGs are around 20 for the city driving and 32 for highway.

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  Best Acura yet - 2005 Acura TSX
  By jayroam - December 30 - 12:57 am

  By far, this is has been my favorite car Ive ever owned. The interior is one of the best Ive ever been in, and the exterior looks great and is timeless. For a car under $30k, its a steal.