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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  2006 Acura TSX - 2006 Acura TSX
  By centralOH - December 29 - 11:21 am

  This is the car to own for "bang for the buck". Not many people have the TSX which is a bonus. Nothing touches it in its price range, NOTHING.

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  My third Acura - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Heather - December 28 - 9:36 pm

  This is my third Acura. The other two where Integras and I was ready to move up to a bit of luxury. I didnt need a new car but I wanted this one. I knew I would not be concerned with reliability and quality of the build. Just about every feature is standard which just made it that much easier to buy. It is fun to drive and suprisingly my gas mileage is improving. When you close the doors it has a nice solid, snug fit sound that rings of quality. Of course, the downside of buying this car was moving to premium gasoline especially right at the time gas started going so high. But it is a low emissions vehicle so at least Im spewing less pollutants into the air.

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  Great Car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Glenn Lambert - December 27 - 4:17 pm

  Ive owned some nice cars in the past, many that were considerably more expensive. The TSX is a tremendous value. I drive 30,000 mile a year. I need a comfortable car, but I also want the performance and handling. Its not always easy to find both. Acura got it just right in the TSX.

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  Clean lines and agility - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Bobby O - December 18 - 11:46 pm

  Superbly designed and heck of a lot of fun to drive! This is the very first new car ever purchased and I am 100% sure I made the right choice. I did a lot of research too and couldnt find a better value for the money.

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  325i to TSX - 2008 Acura TSX
  By mstew0102 - December 18 - 2:31 pm

  I recently returned a lease of a 2006 BMW 3251 6M. I am a loyal Honda-ist and am very pleased to be back on familiar ground. The BMW was a great car, but this is more like putting on a familiar old coat. The TSX may have missed by not having a V6, but overall this car is more satisfying and full of features that I love. The handling is not the same as RWD, but I have quickly forgotten that car and feel more confident in this TSX. I couldnt be happier.

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  Could not be happier - 2008 Acura TSX
  By John - December 16 - 9:57 pm

  My previous car was a VW Jetta (w/ Turbo). I was looking at 3 series BMWs, Lexus IS 250 and the TSX. I ended up with the TSX and could not be happier. After reading reviews I was worried that the car would not have the pick-up I desired. I envisioned it being like my brothers civic. Not the case and in fact I dont notice much of a differnce outside of not have the turbo kick-in at 6000 rpms. I also thought the body was somewhat plain at first, but have since grown to love it. This is a great car for anyone in the entry level luxury sedan market.

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  Acura TSX = precision driving - 2004 Acura TSX
  By mxmattd - December 11 - 10:49 pm

  I bought this car used in Feb. 07 with 70k, and after almost a year of driving, I couldnt be happier! This car provides a perfect balance of sport, luxury, and economy. To do this, of course, trade-offs are required. The ride leans towards sporty, resulting in excellent handling but sometimes harsh on poor roads. The engine needs to be above 4k rpm for thrills, but keeping revs down gives excellent gas mileage (I avg 29 with mixed driving). The interior is pure luxury, but seats are still great for hard cornering. Steering, controls, incredibly slick 6sp tranny, dbw throttle, everything in this car exudes precision, which translates to an enjoyable drive thru mtn. roads or city streets.

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  What a car - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Alex Schaffhausen - December 10 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful to drive, beautiful to look at. Would recommend it to anyone and would buy it again in a heartbeat. Adding the spoiler and underbody package really makes it stand out.

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  No regrets at this time - 2009 Acura TSX
  By GDR - December 9 - 5:33 pm

  We decided to get this car because, we are returning our worse car ever 2007 c230 Mercedes Benz in few weeks. The new 2009 tsx with tech package is the best deal I ever had. A good size for family daily drive and options. A little bit bumpy. But, overall its an a+ on its class. Quality speaks for itself.

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  Good Car for the Money - 2006 Acura TSX
  By UteNick - November 30 - 11:53 am

  I just bought the vehicle two weeks ago, and I really love it. Its my first brand new car, and Acura makes great vehicles.