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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  Florida TSX - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Florida - November 26 - 7:43 am

  After 17k miles, it is still a joy to drive. The engine loves to rev and the suspension is smooth and yet still turns in and corners like a 4-door Miata. In fact, having owned a Miata, there is little to choose in that area, but here I have a much more comfortable, roomier and quieter car. I considered the Golf GTI V6 and the Acura RSX. The Golf was not as comfortable and although it may have been quicker, it didnt feel quicker. Also the 6 spd. shift linkage was not nearly as nice as the TSX, but miles better than the 5 speed Golf. The RSX was not nearly as quiet as the TSX, and I preferred the extra room.

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  I love my Acura - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Jadup - November 23 - 4:26 pm

  I love my new Acura TSX so much its fun to drive and with all the safty features I know my family will be safe . What more could you ask for Ive got a safe sporty looking family car .

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  Most reliable car I have owned - 2010 Acura TSX
  By Brian Carter - November 23 - 8:50 am

  I have owned this car for 3 years now and never had to do more than routine maintenance to it (a battery, tires, and oil changes).

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  Extremely fun car - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Louie - November 21 - 1:30 am

  We just got this car last week. After you get past all the fun gadgets and solid interior, its an amazingly fun car to drive around town. The engine is surprisingly peppy for a 4-cylinder, and the work theyve put into the suspension really shows. Im not a car guy, but when you go around a corner, its amazing compared to the other cars I tried. Its a perfect daily driver that can also get you grinning on the twisties. Navigation system is great, love the fact that all the other amenities are included!!

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  Body part problems - 2009 Acura TSX
  By SMM - November 17 - 10:56 pm

  Have a problem with the defective clips holding the exterior side panels along the windshield of this car. They have repeatedly come off and dealership said I was the first to have it happen 3Xs indicating it is common. I find the trunk & hood also very thin & light causing them to vibrate at 60 - 70mph. Also have a/c problems. Seems to have a mind of its own turning on high without touching it. All other comments I agree with. Comfortable, good road feel, nice pick up - voice command however needs improvement as well as navi-lighting & paint quality (show minor scratching too easily)!

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  All-Around Awesome! - 2007 Acura TSX
  By J Cos - November 16 - 11:12 pm

  I bought this car about two months ago. I am in love with it. I had a TL before, but love this new car. The handling is peppy, yet not too much like other competitors such as a g35. The interior is easy on the eyes and all of the controls are extremely easy to use. The back seat is small, yet the seats fold down to make a more-than-large trunk for this car size. Handling is stiff, but not quite a BMW. The exterior is due for a redesign, but this cars current body style is what makes it so classy. (Not saying a few upgrades wouldnt help!)

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  Best Acura To Date - 2009 Acura TSX
  By D - November 9 - 12:46 pm

  I have owned every Acura model except the RL since 2004, and this is my favorite of all! I bought this car the day it came out, and I must say the car is worth every dollar! This car is better than any Lexus, BMW, or Infiniti in its segment for a much less cost. Great space, build quality, and style. This car is a head turner that I highly recommend!

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  Pure joy - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Tyrone - November 8 - 12:38 pm

  This is my 4th "Honda" and 2nd Acura over the years. The ride is quite smooth with very little bumps to be felt. The car is semi sporty so the suspension will be a little stiff. My wife made a note at how it felt like we were going 40mph when I was actually doing 75mph. It is small enough to fit into small space and large enough to fit a family. The navi is just wonderful and so easy to use. For a 4 cyl, it has nice pick up. We have an RDX that has the turbo, I cannot imagine how fast the tsx would be with 260hp. I hear the 2009 may have this?

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  Love it - 2006 Acura TSX
  By carbongreyTSX06 - November 1 - 1:01 am

  I have had my 06 TSX for over a year, it is my first car and it is simply amazing. This car is definitely the definition for "bang for the buck" without a doubt. I love the body style, the interior, and the performance everything is great. I seem to go through a lot of gas, but other than that, if the body doesnt get ugly in the over the next year or two, I am going to get a new TSX once my lease is over!!!

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  2006 Acura TXS - 2006 Acura TSX
  By aeperez80 - October 31 - 1:01 pm

  I recently purchased this vehicle as a Acura Certified Pre-owned. The owner before me took exceptional care of the car and now I feel like Im driving a brand new car! I recently had a 2006 MINI Cooper S, which was fun and sporty, but did not have nearly as many bells and whistles as the TSX. When I unexpectedly found myself in the market for a new vehicle, I had no idea what I wanted. I test drove the Audi A4, the Volvo S40, the Mercedes C230, and were all nice to drive. But I wouldnt have been able to afford all of the features TSX already has. All of my research indicated this car was the most reliable, has the best resale value, and the best bang for the buck. Style and practical!