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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  Great Price for a Way Above Average Car - 2007 Acura TSX
  By PeterG - May 29 - 12:38 am

  All the features I wanted stepping into an entry Luxury Sedan and more that I never thought about. I thought, based on the price of the car, why not go for the additional nav. system and complete the package.

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  Best Deal Going - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Thom - May 24 - 1:12 pm

  Everything is standard on this car except nav (leather, sunroof, VSA, trip computer, 10 way driver seat, 4 year 50,000 mile warranty). Lacks a little in power, especially torque, but is strong once you get above 2750 rpm. Driver seat comfort and adjustments are excellent. Rear seat a little cramped for two full sized adults. Build quality is better than TL as are front seats.

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  TSXtasy - 2004 Acura TSX
  By TSXTASY - May 21 - 11:59 am

  I purchased this car almost a year ago and needless to say, the only complaint I have is that I wish it had better/more cupholders. This car is money! I love it! Blissful blend of luxury, gas mileage, performance, and style. And to cap it off, it will be just as good at and beyond 100,000 miles (because technically it is a honda). Some claim it is lacking in power, but name another naturally aspirated, 4-door, 4-cylinder car that is comparable... there isnt one. Turbocharge it, and the product is a 4-door, 4-cylinder luxury car that is faster than an EVO or an STI except it already comes with a 6-speed! Great car, highly recommend it, thats why my license plate says "TSXTASY" (TS- ECSTASY).

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  Amazing - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Arctic Blue 07 - May 17 - 11:07 pm

  I really do love the car, and do not regret the purchase whatsoever. The car is great fun to drive, accelerates smoothly, but youll pay for the fun at the gas pump.

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  A very nice car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By EmanV - May 9 - 5:03 pm

  I was in the market for a new car, my wonderful honda prelude aproaching 300,000 miles. I decided on the TSX after driving BMW, Audi, Lexus. The combination of Price, features, economy and RELIABILTY were unbeatable. The 4 cylinder is strong enough to get the job done. The navigation seems extravagant until you need it. The more I drive it , the more I like it.

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  Acura must have - 2007 Acura TSX
  By LA - May 9 - 4:08 pm

  I just went from a 2004 Honda Accord EX-L to a Acura TSX with navigation system and I must say that I am happy with my decision so far. I love the Acura navigation system, really easy to use. I did love the Honda Accord though. The car is absolutely fun to drive, I cannot wait for a new, refreshed version of the TSX, hopefully with more room and better gas mileage, also with more power. Excellent car choice nonetheless.

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  Acura TSX 2006 - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Cynthia Magill - May 9 - 3:50 pm

  I went from driving the 2000 TL Acura and I love this car. I actually bought the 2005 Acura TSX first and my husband loved it so much he suggested I buy the 2006 and give him the 2005. We both love the Navigation system. The blueTooth in the 06 is exceptional. We love this car. We also love the dealership Inskip in RI and we live in NH.

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  Cant get any better for the money - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Matt - April 29 - 1:16 am

  Very good car for $27k; loads of standards and an engine that loves to rev up! Granted BMWs are awesome cars...I wont deny that, I love them! But I will guarantee that you cant find a fully loaded brand new BMW 3 series for about $28k; I "built" my own 3 Series with the features available in the TSX...it came close to $33k.

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  Best car for the money - 2006 Acura TSX
  By acura06 - April 28 - 10:06 pm

  Acura TSX is a great car for the money! Already put 30k miles on car in 1 year with no complaints! Consistent high gas mileage of 31+ highway. No problems.

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  My 1st Acura - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Wendy - April 28 - 8:06 am

  This is my first Acura and I know that I will be an Acura owner for life. My car is over a year old and I still love it as much today as I did the day I drove it off the lot. It is sleek & sporty, comfortable and not to mention, fast! I get so many compliments on the exterior, but once youll gone for a ride, you just cant stop talking about it. Everyones impressed and so am I!