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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  Traded a TL for a TSX - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Matthew Everett - April 20 - 2:02 pm

  I traded my 06 TL for the more attractive looking TSX and am happy I did. The TSX has everything I liked about the TL, and more importantly, it doesnt have the things I didnt like about the TL. It is quicker off the mark, handles better, better mileage (not by much though), and it was made in Japan. I really hated the mapholders on the TL, but they are gone (sort of) in the TSX. Also the rear end of the TSX is much more attractive.The TL was of course quieter, but I am always playing something in the audio system, which actually sounds better in the TSX than the TL. All in all I am happier with the TSX than the TL. Be sure to test drive both.

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  Love the car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Ramold - April 17 - 11:50 am

  Bought this a couple months ago. I traded in a 2007 Nissan 350Z roadster for this. I havent regretted it a bit. The comfort, build quality and features far out weigh the lost HP. I highly recommend the 2009 Acura TSX over anything else in its class.

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  Almost perfect - 2007 Acura TSX
  By choosiest - April 17 - 3:50 am

  This car would be perfect if had at least a little more low end power (1st and 2nd gear) and also had a more precise feeling shifter/clutch - more like the 97 Integra.

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  This car is incredible for the price! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Megan - April 9 - 1:46 pm

  This is my third Acura. The car just feels solid and has great safety features. Its fun to drive, feels just like what you would want out of a sports car mixed perfectly with a luxury ride. I had the RSX type S before this, and I lost absolutely no engine power, and the braking system is amazing, the car really stops on a dime. I can say nothing bad about this car. The electronics are great, especially the information screen in the dash board. It tells you exactly what you need to know! I always installed aftermarket stereos in my car, and felt no need to do that in this car! Great comfort and fun!

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  Best all around car ever - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Mike - April 6 - 8:41 pm

  My girlfriend and I have never been so pleased with a car. We traded in our Audi A4 for the TSX and fell in love with the comfort and technology. We use bluetooth all the time and the nav system blows everything else out of the water. Acuras navigation system is honestly the absolute best on the market. I cant wait to see what they come out with next.

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  A car for the entire family, outstanding - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Familyof5 - April 3 - 11:20 pm

  The perfect car for one seeking comfort, safety, luxury, performance, handling, fuel efficiency and reliability while proving to be exhilirating to drive. We were looking for a safe car which appealed to the entire family and the TSX is that car. The ideal car which you can drive to work daily (fuel efficiency) yet on the weekends as a luxury performance car. Safe car with Stability Control and front/side airbags. We would purchase this car again without question, no regrets. Outstanding quality and workmanship. Interior and exterior top notch, reflection of Acura (Honda) quality. We highly recommend that one test drive a TSX if searching for an outstanding compact you will be pleased

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  06 TSX a Drivers Car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By TSXTODD - April 1 - 2:35 pm

  This is a stylish, fun to drive sports sedan. Sure you can get the excellent TL, but if you dont need the size, this car makes a lot of sense. The TL is based on the American built Accord. The TSX is a J built sedan made for the Autobahn. I recently packed it with 4 adults and all their luggage for a weekend. There was plenty of room and plenty of power. I average 28 MPG. In my book the 6 speed manual transmission is a must. The revy 4cyl loves to go to redline. This is a true drivers car.

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  Enjoyable car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By John - March 31 - 5:16 am

  First thing I have to mention is that the dealership I purchased from was willing to negotiate price. The safety features drew me to the TSX along with the horsepower. In researching out other cars in this category I was amazed at the features that came standard on the TSX. Its a fun car to drive and looks good but the back seats are the right size for children, adults will have a tough time getting in and out. Another surprise is that the car is not supposed to have a total load of over 850 pounds in it which means four adults can ride in it and no more but that is good considering how the back is so small. I like the tan interior but it is difficult to keep clean.

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  My sweet ride - 2007 Acura TSX
  By cchanpa - March 19 - 6:47 am

  This car has a lot of items equipped as standard especially Bluetooth Handsfree, XM radio & Xenon headlights. Even though TSX is FWD, you can enjoy the adequate power from 2.4L I4 engine above 3k rpm. Fit and finish is exceptional.

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  I love it! - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Shanny - March 17 - 6:12 pm

  Awesome ratings. Take it for a test drive and yup, its sold. This unique car supports that Acura has high standards. This car is superb to none other! The VSA (stability) is awesome. The Navi system is a must for the price. Dont just look, DRIVE it. I enjoy that my husband talked me into this vehicle. I dont want to get out of it when I pull up to my house. I have never been so happy with a material item but I am smiling even when I am sleeping. :) When the voice command talks, she seems to be smarter than I am. So now I have some competition. I think I might have to name her. Also,If I get mad at her, I can change her to a man voice and name him Enrique or Juan.