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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  Love the TSX - 2007 Acura TSX
  By MinnesotaDriver - March 17 - 12:30 pm

  This vehicle is so much fun to drive. It is solidly built, has plenty of pep, handles like a dream. I understand the exterior will be changed in 2008, but I find the 2007 to have a classic, clean design. The interior hugs you, the drivers seat is very comfortable, no back-aches here. Its an Acura, so everything is ergonomically and stylishly designed. I just attended the 2007 Auto Show, and couldnt find a vehicle I liked better, even in the higher price ranges. I recommmend this car whole-heartedly.

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  The Only Car You Need - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Gotta_Shift_It - March 13 - 11:42 pm

  I needed a serious driving machine that could also take the wife and kids everywhere. The engine sounds exotic at WOT. The six-speed manual is the only way to "talk" to this car. What really endears me to the TSX is that it can be so much fun when Im driving solo, but can also be the trusty and protective car when hauling the family. Its good on gas, mechanically dependable, exhilirating to drive, fun to drive slow, has all the safety stuff, and big enough for a family of four. The TSX made ownership fun again after a disastrous and trouble-plagued 2 years with a 2002 Audi A4... blap!

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  Great Decision To Buy This Model - 2007 Acura TSX
  By JanetM - March 11 - 3:30 pm

  Did a lot of research and test drove many different models. When I drove this car I knew I had finally found what I had been looking for. Everything is standard. No need to purchase options. Fun to drive. Handles great.

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  A Blast to Drive - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Jack in Manassas - March 11 - 5:12 am

  The last Acura I owned was a 91 Legend coupe, it was a great car. This car is as much fun drive as my old Legend. The car corners like a dream and feels like a 6 cyl. The car accelerates as smooth as silk. I drive a Prius to work because I can get into the HOV, I cant wait for the weekends to drive the TSX. Bang for the buck you cant beat this car. My gas mileage with about 300 miles on the car is a combined 26 mpg.

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  A very good car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By STEVE - March 7 - 5:24 am

  I got this car last year for my graduation present, and I must say that I love my car. I used to drive a 2003 Acura TL and switching to this was "bittersweet." Going from 3.2L to a 2.4L was a bit of a bummer. I noticed this especially on the interstate. The TSX had a much more fun sport shift mode (hearing the engine switch gears). But the seats in the 03 TL were much more softer. This car is fun fun fun to drive in the city. The dash has a very simple design with clean contour lines. I love how the backseats fold down for me to put my band equipment. But I do not love how it is difficult to get change out of the change cubby when the car is parked because the shifter is in the way.

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  The complete package and a great value - 2006 Acura TSX
  By cat_trammell - February 21 - 10:37 pm

  Found a new 2006 model in February and glad I did. My last three cars have been: 2005 Saab 9-3, 2003 MINI Cooper and 1997 Audi A4. Overall, the TSX outclasses them all. Handling is on par with the A4, comfort is comparable to the 9-3, and its as fun to drive as the MINI. All this and Acuras reputation for quality and reliability, and a price thousands less than its European and Japanese competitors with every feature standard. Anyone looking for a sports sedan needs to seriously consider the TSX.

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  As much fun as expected - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Card_richelieu - February 21 - 10:29 pm

  For the price, this car is too much fun to drive. Its got great handling, ample power when needed, good fuel economy, looks sharp but not gaudy, and is very comfortable. These were my main criteria and this car is the best balance of these at this price range. I also looked at the Mazda6 which I considered the closest comparison based on my criteria. In the end an easy choice. I suspect the main knock is that you are paying a few $K more for a glorified Accord. There is some legitimacy in that argument but once you get inside that will melt away. I love this car. Do yourself a favor - the 6 speed manual box is really sweet and is an absolute must!

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  Cant wait to get rid of it! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By skico - February 18 - 11:01 pm

  I realize my car is 2 yo, but I feel obligated to tell people of my exp w/ Acura and my TSX. I drive a lot for my job, so need a good, safe, comfortable, reliable car. Id heard Acura was that car. Never in my life have I been so disappointed in a car. This car has left me stranded, things were breaking in the car 3-4 months after I got it no pickup, awful in snow. I dont feel safe in car, and dont trust that it will get me where I need to be safel - in fact, everytime I drive long distances, I get very nervous that the car will strand me somewhere b/c it has in the past. I cant wait to get rid of it, and I doubt I will ever buy an Acura again.

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  Great Buy and Ride - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Tom - February 16 - 12:48 pm

  Has all the features you want: memory seats, leather, blue tooth, sat. radio, peppy motor and trans, comfortable seats, sunroof, all standard.

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  No Comparison! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Karen, San Francisco - February 11 - 3:18 pm

  I was in market for a 4 cylinder vehicle that would provide the get and go power, as well as better gas mileage in comparison to my 2004 Honda Odyssey. I first test drove the 4 cylinder Honda Accord, but found the TSX handled better, had a smoother more comfortable ride, more horsepower and better standard equipment.