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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  Salesmans TSX - 2006 Acura TSX
  By george - December 2 - 10:28 am

  As a sales rep with a fairly large territory, I will put approximately 25,000 miles on the TSX this year. I would like a little more pep from the engine, but Im very satisfied with the fuel economy. Handling is superb, and the automatic transmission in manual mode delivers very satisfying performance on winding roads. The interior is very comfortable (although Id like a little more drama), and the stereo is simply incredible. The exterior styling is a little too BMW-like, but its still very easy on the eyes. With nearly 25,000 miles on the car already, Ive had no problems - none. And now with the posted highest resale value for a sedan, I know that I made an excellent choice.

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  buy this car!!! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By kdw - December 1 - 9:46 am

  After several years of driving VW Jettas, I wanted a more sophistocated yet sporty vehical. Once I saw the TSX, I loved it - Once I drove the TSX I knew that I had to own it! Sorry VW, but the TSX give a whole new meaning to "FUN TO DRIVE". I bought my new TSX in July and have put nearly 11k enjoyable miles on it! I dont regret buying my car when I did, however, they have added heated side mirrors as well as power passenger seats. I still would buy mine again when I did - I love it!

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  LOVE my Acura! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Sarah - November 30 - 4:49 pm

  When it comes to cars, I must be spoiled, because my history of cars have all been great (1990 Honda Prelude, 1997 Accord sedan, and 2000 Accord coupe). But since I got my TSX in May of this year, I have been in love! This car is sporty, stylish, sleek, everything you could possibly want in a car, and with just enough a hint of luxury to make this mid-20s chick feel rich! I was in a collision in my TSX recently and felt absolutely safe in my Acura. Its five star collision rating proved to be true, and I am still in love with my TSX!

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  The TSX is perfect - 2007 Acura TSX
  By ponchohasacar - November 30 - 12:03 pm

  The Acura TSX was, for lack of a better word, perfect in all respects. The price was very reasonable and the amount of standard features were amazing to say the least. I could not have bought a better car for a better price, simply put. The handling is a dream come true and in Bakersfield heated seats in the winter are a must. The duel climate control tailors itself to any temperature I desire. The powerful yet efficient 205 horse power engine provides the perfect balance of torque and fuel mileage. I would suggest the 07 Acura TSX to any one looking for a luxury car that outperforms bmw and mercedes with the price tag not much more than a honda accord.

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  Very happy 28 months later - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Dr. Daryl - November 29 - 12:34 am

  We are getting 25 mpg commuting and 28-33 mpg highway depending on load. The TSX is highly entertaining to drive being very agile. Fit and finish continue to impress. The leather shows only a mild patina and the kids have lightly scuffed the seatbacks with their shoes. Our sole problem is a slightly sticking door lock. No rattles, squeaks, or mechanical issues. Id buy another without question.

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  2006 Acura TSX - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Armi - November 26 - 3:37 pm

  The TSX is a bargain. Based on the sportier European Accord, it is a sporty in-town grocery runner, and a comfortable interstate cruiser. Lots of headroom, even with a sunroof. Wish Acura would offer the white exterior with the quartz gray interior.

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  Quality - 2004 Acura TSX
  By bob hoare - November 21 - 7:40 am

  It is a fabulous car to drive. The handling is tight and precise and its biggest quality is the quality of interior materials used and the overall assembly of the car. I have had it for 2.5 years without putting a dime into the car. Only negative is the turning radius. A bus is easier to park.

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  I Love this car! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Dawn - November 19 - 10:45 pm

  I love this car! I bought it 4 days ago and every day I cant wait to drive the 30 miles to work! I had been looking for a new car for 4 months and no car had everything I wanted. I was so frustrated. Then a friend told me about Acura! I didnt think we could afford it, but after taking one test drive, I was in love! It has everything! And, its all included in the base model! Its everything I ever wanted in a car! Its just 100% pure class! And I love the fact that you dont see a million of them everywhere! I love it!!

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  TSX In A Word: Balance - 2004 Acura TSX
  By PeteA - November 17 - 3:20 pm

  If youre looking for the fastest or most-likely-to-be-envied-by-your- buddies, keep looking. The TSX is all about balance between engine, transmission, handling, brakes, economy, and luxury. Having driven all of its competitors, none do those things as well as this superb Acura. No wonder Car & Driver keeps voting it a 10-Best winner. Ive had my 04 for two years, and I look forward to my commute every day. How many cars do that for you?

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  LOVE THE TSX - 2006 Acura TSX
  By AirBearEC7 - November 16 - 4:25 pm

  Have to say that I love the TSX both my sister and I have one. I got one first, and then when looking for my sisters car, we all realized there is no better deal than the TSX, it has everything that one needs, its classy, but fun, and the price isnt out there. This car is a keeper.