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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  Just Perfect - 2008 Acura TSX
  By Ryan - July 19 - 1:19 pm

  Gas mileage over 30 for 205 HP car. It is just unbeliverable. Drives like sports car still have plenty of room and cargo.

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  Perfect in My Book - Matthew M. - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Matthew M. - July 19 - 12:06 am

  This is our second TSX. We leased a 2004 and when our three years were up we turned it in for an 06. The 04 was great but the 06 is even better. Many more features, better styling, better ride, handling is equal but the suttle improvements in the 06 sold me on another one. We have never had two of the same cars. It feels like a different car. I think its more solid and quieter than the 04. I thought about buying the 04 we liked it so well but after driving the 06 I had to get it. Most car for the money hands down. No comparisons that Im aware of. Our 04 was absolutely trouble free. Try it, youll buy it and wont regret it.

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  For smooth roads only - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Robert Needham - July 18 - 7:33 am

  I bought the car because I love manual transmissions - its best feature. But the car is uncomfortable for short light weight people, cant raise the seat high enough to see the road well. My wife sits on a pillow. Seats are low, slippery and thin. No protective side moulding on doors, no trip computer, no compass, no automatic door locks. I drove it down 130 miles of washboard dirt road, where it fishtailed badly, paint chipped out, and the car developed rattles in dash and driver door. A good car for big heavy people who drive smooth pavement only. Two factory recalls.

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  Best Car Ive had - 2007 Acura TSX
  By JohnnyCNote - July 17 - 10:34 pm

  I had a 2001 Altima, which wasnt a bad car. Even though the TSX is a bit smaller, inside it has more room, plus its much nicer, too. I was contemplating getting a V6 Nissan or Honda, but gas prices started to rise, I settled on the TSX. I have a short commute, and otherwise drive almost exclusively around Jacksonville, FL. My mileage is a consistent 22 mpg, meaning mixed highway/suburban driving. I might get better if I laid off of the gas pedal, but its fun to push it. Being an auto, you have to get it in the right gear, but it has the power to pull ahead when I need to. I havent had many chances to try the handling, but when I have its really held the road. Its a great car!

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  Drivers Car - 2008 Acura TSX
  By roadwarior8 - July 11 - 11:36 am

  Fun to drive. Awesome ride. Very easy to use, yet comprehensive navigation system. Overall best purchase I ever made.

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  Joy of TSX - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Overdoer - July 7 - 3:21 am

  I wanted a sporty vehicle that was much quieter than my 2005 Celica but just as fun to drive the TSX delivers that, along with the leather package, 6-speed ultrasmooth gearbox, sunroof, bluetooth, premium sound package, and good mileage to boot. Only downsides - premium fuel, just like any performance engine, and the 2.4L inline 4 loses a bit of its punch with the AC running, but compensates at higher RPM. My 07 TSX is not quite broken in yet at 8650 miles - I view the 10K mark as the adequate set-in to allow me to really punch it (right after oil change #2). Im looking forward to that day!!!

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  I love it! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Tim L. - July 5 - 10:24 pm

  I have owned the car for a week and I love it. It out-handles and out-performs any midsize sedan Ive driven. I love the styling and my bright red exterior. The four cylinder has plenty of power to it plus good gas mileage. The manumatic transmission is fun to play with too. I am the envy of all of my friends. Dual climate control, heated seats, and supple leather define this cars interior. Great resale value too. All buttons and other features were learned in maybe 5 minutes.

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  Great car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Jonathan - July 3 - 10:56 pm

  Bought used with 13000 on it. Have put 15000 on it in a year. Absolutely no problems. The handling is great. The automatic transmission is super smooth. By far, the best car you can get for the money. Great resale value and great driving experience.

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  Great Value - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Doctor Watson - July 2 - 9:10 pm

  As a longtime Toyota owner (20+ years) I was ready for another Camry or an upgrade to the Avalon. However, after reading mediocre reviews on the new Camry and with the Avalon looking dated and overpriced, I looked at the Acura. The car is loaded with so many more standard features that are options with Toyota. Only had the car for two weeks, but a terrific ride and great value, a luxury car with a modest price. Worth a serious look and test drive.

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  Great overall car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By kaiger - June 30 - 8:19 pm

  Those who say this car is underpowered are either comparing it to true sports cars or theyre driving the automatic. This is a sedan. Its not meant to break any quarter-mile speed records. For what it is, it is quite sporty. The 6-speed manual is great. The gears are crisp, it accelerates well and you cant beat the features for the price.