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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  Unbeatable at Anywhere Near its Price - 2006 Acura TSX
  By NormanS - November 16 - 2:51 pm

  The TSX displays a marvelous balance between smooth power delivery, sure-footed handling, braking, responsive steering, and comfort this balance is what makes the TSX fun to drive. Besides fun, it comes loaded with just about every feature standard, provides high reliability, and low TCO for a luxury car. The TSX automatic model is powerful enough for spirited driving on streets, twisting roads, and freeways. SportShift mode helps compensate for the TSXs low torque at low RPM. I find SportShift a viable option to a manual shift. TSX is more fun than the TL. Gas mileage: 19+/32+ MPG city/country. Experience: Manual Acura Legend, Lexus ES300 and LS400, Manual BMW 3.0S, BMW 540, BMW 740.

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  Poor radio reception for TSXs - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Beth - November 16 - 12:49 pm

  I have had my 2006 TSX 6 sp manual for two months. I immediately noticed a problem with quality of the radio reception for FM stations that are based in my city, as well as for XM stations. Basically, if you get into areas of high voltage you either lose the signal (XM) or it becomes staticky (FM). My dealership told me there was nothing wrong with the reception and that that was how all the TSXs were. They gave me a loaner car to use and I noticed the same problem with reception on that car. I have owned 6 or 7 cars including other Acura and Hondas, but I have never experienced the such poor radio reception, which I consider a basic amenity, especially for a car in this price range.

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  Great Car - Great Price ! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Vegas T - November 15 - 10:00 am

  Since this car first debuted just over a year ago, I knew I wanted to have it. Stepping up from an RSX to this vehicle has been nothing short of pure fun & enjoyment from a performance and driving perspective. This car has the perfect balance of power & handling, a superbly laid out interior, top-notch finish and materials, and the slickest 6-Speed in its category. Features like traction-control, in-dash 6-DC player, Power Drivers Seat, Sun/MoonRoof, leather heated seats, and drive-by-wire throttle all add to the incredible driving experience this vehicle provides. It not only quenches your thirst, it soaks you! Highly Recommended!

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  Its an Acura!!!! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By LAND ROVER - November 14 - 7:21 pm

  When I bought this car i was going back and forth between the Acura and the G35 from Infiniti. The main 2 reasons I choose the Acura was the MPG difference and the cheaper insurance. I recently sold the car with a lot of regret, but I needed an SUV. This car was amazing. It had everything. Nav, heated seats, dual climate control, stability, leather etc... The power from the 2.4L was good for the car. Not the power of the TL, but much better MPG and not the torque steer.

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  Best Value for Price - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Wigman8 - November 14 - 5:40 pm

  Ive had the car almost six months so I thought I would stop back and help others as I used comments from this site to help make my decision. Let me just say, Im very happy with the decision I made to buy this car. The styling is nice, great interior, comfort, built in technology including blue tooth. I just drove from Minneapolis to Nashville (long story) and got 31.7 mpg. That is very impressive in my opinion. I compared this car to the BMW 3 series but was concerned about reliability as per consumer reports. The BMW is a very nice car, in fact maybe a better "drivers" car but the value and reliability of the TSX couldnt be topped. One negative - stiff suspension makes it bumpy

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  Less than 2 months and I LOVE it!! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By CJTitans3 - November 13 - 9:49 pm

  I searched high & low before purchasing a vehicle. The Acura TSX was an excellent choice! I drove a Honda Accord before, so there was not much of a transition needed to adjust to the Acura except that it has more power & get-up beneath the hood. I just love driving it! Its great on gas. In town & on the highway, the performance is fabulous! This car is a nice way to get a taste of luxury for a fraction of the price.

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  2004 TSX A-Spec - 2004 Acura TSX
  By TSX A-SPEC - November 10 - 10:00 am

  The TSX is just plain fun to drive. Even the base TSX is enough for most people, but if you have the chance, check out the A-Spec options. A great looking body kit, and nice 1 drop, and a sport tuned suspension makes this car a great daily driver, but one that cannot wait for weekend road trips. Coming from a 00 Eclispse GT it dosent have the same power at the low end but the 7100 redline takes care of you on the high end. Though the 2004 A-Spec is no longer avaliable, the 2005s, ariving mid December should have the A-Spec option.

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Julie - November 9 - 11:20 pm

  I did a lot of research and decided on the Acura TSX. I drove a Mercury Cougar for 6 years and going from a two door 6 cylinder to a 4 door 4 cylinder made me apprehensive but that feeling was long gone after the first test drive. It rides much smoother, handles extremely well and I am very happy with the purchase.

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  I love my car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By tatiana fuentes - November 9 - 8:30 pm

  This vehicle beats out the competition. You have every luxury feature, great price, fully loaded w/o additional for everything, great handeling and beautiful exterior and safe! I love it!!!!!

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  Open Road - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Lauren - November 9 - 10:17 am

  Even though this car has only 4 cylinders, it definitely has pep. This car is great on gas and the mileage per gallon on the highway and streets is accurate with the sticker. TOTALLY LOVE IT!