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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  Happy TSX Owner - 2007 Acura TSX
  By Kim - December 20 - 12:31 pm

  Best value for the price. Loaded with standard features that are optional on other cars in the same class. This car has an "understated elegance". I would highly recommend the TSX to anyone in the market for a new vehicle who wants subtle sportiness with luxury.

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  Lovin It - 2005 Acura TSX
  By From Nissan to Acura - December 17 - 8:07 pm

  I just bought my Acura, it was my fourth car in 3 years. Ive had a 2000 Celica GT-S, 2003 Infiniti G35, a 2003 NIssan 350Z and then my Acura. All manual transmission. I must say that when it comes to performance, I have not been able to beat my 350Z. But isnt that what Nissan is about? BUT when it comes to comfort and reliablity my Acura tops my list! I love it. I feel safer and it uses a LOT less fuel then my last car. LOVE IT TO DEATH. More sensible for New York winters.

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  I am in love - 2006 Acura TSX
  By arielp - December 15 - 2:06 pm

  Get this car. The photos dont do it justice. Take it for a test drive.. It will change your mind. Every one I know loves this car. It is the best value around. Do you really need anymore power? This one does everything well, not just a few great like the BMW and AuDI.Silky smooth six speed buttery soft leather. Every one loves the XM and Voice navigation.

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  The Best Car, I have ever owned - 2006 Acura TSX
  By DeLeon Andrews - December 15 - 1:16 pm

  I have owned many 4 cyl cars in the past 33 years. The TSX is a sport sedan that is the fun to drive every day. I have read all the reviews about TSX needing more horsepower, for what reason! My wife (Mich) grew up driving V-8s and V-6s she said the TSX is the fastest car she has ever driven and her first manual shift. Check out the top ten cars on the residual value list. I am happy TSX does not suit everyone taste.

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  Best value on the market - 2005 Acura TSX
  By jogee - December 14 - 3:33 am

  Save yourself some time. If youre looking for a higher-end vehicle that gets great gas mileage, is of outstanding quality, has great performance, and is a good value, get the Acura TSX. Im sure Lexus, Infiniti, Audi, and BMW have very good competing models. But you cant touch them for the same money. I researched vehicles for about 5 months before I bought my TSX. So far its lived up to my every expectation. Not sorry I made the choice. Engine noise is almost non-existent, even at high RPMs. This little car will really get up and go if you want it to. More that acceptable acceleration, even at low RPMs (considering its a 4-banger). A great car and a great value!

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  TSX Review - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Ginny Allen - December 13 - 10:43 am

  I absolutely LOVE my car! I got it about 1 year & a half ago but I still feel like its new. It looks great (mine is red!) & it drives wonderfully. I had a Toyota Solara before this (it was my first car- Im only 21). It was good but this car is GREAT! Buy one!!!

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  Its a Honda - 2006 Acura TSX
  By gt0279a - December 12 - 3:46 pm

  After driving an 04 TSX 6sp for 2 years, I was looking for a new car and realized how much I enjoyed the TSX. Adding the Navigation is a world of difference, and makes it a true luxury car. The Nav is easy to use, but the voice recognition isnt perfect. I compared it to Lexus, Audi and BMW and the Acura navigation is still far superior. The black leather interior is very classy, and the seats are much more comfortable than in the 04. The Auto is very smooth and the new steering wheel design feels / looks better. Bluetooth for your phone is nice, but lacks some extra features BMWs have. Overall, a fantastic car for the $$$ - a comparable 3 series or A4 is atleast 6K more.

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  Best value - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Roy - December 10 - 9:10 am

  Tested 325, C230, IS 250 and settled on the TSX. The vtec-4 engine is as smooth and strong as the competitors V6 or I6. Handling wise, TSXs FWD gave little away to RWD rivals under regular street driving . While the base prices are in the same range, by the time you spec up to match the TSX (leather, cd changer, xeon, 17" wheel) you are looking at something like $10k higher, so for me it was an easy decision. Only negative I have is with blind spots. The thick front A-pillar, steeply raked windshield, and high trunk lid all make it hard for my wife (54") to drive and park in tight spots. Granted this is not unique to TSX as the IS is as bad if not worse.

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  Corners like its on rails - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Kelly - December 7 - 7:00 pm

  The TSX is a sweet ride. I was feeling a tad bit old when I started to consider a 4 door sedan... but you cant even tell that it is a 4 door when you are driving it. It hugs the exit ramps so close to the inside line and it is very diificult to lose control of this vehicle. The interior is sporty (I have quartz leather with brushed nickle finish) and easy to maintain. I hate that I have to sell this car to take over a company car - I wont say the name but that, my friends, is a car I guarantee I will notice the four doors.

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  Great car at a great price!!! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Chris P - December 7 - 12:37 pm

  I looked at every car you could think of in the $20k to $30k range, but in the end, you cannot beat everything you get with this car! This is my first new car in 10 years so even simple things like the 6-cd changer is a big upgrade for me! But you do get a lot of features with this car, a very stylish interior, great MPG, great handling and top notch safety features. All for about $25,000. How can you do better?