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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  Lovely Car In Every Way! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Happyacura - September 8 - 5:03 pm

  Now that my TSX is 2 months old, I can write this. Its just superb in every way. Beautifully built and finished, not a hint of a squeak, rattle, moan or groan anywhere. The features/tech stuff are all awesome and work perfectly. The perforations in the leather keep my back cool, and the a/c is way cold. The stereo is excellent, the comfort is excellent, the engine and 5 speed auto tranny are flawless together. I cant think of anything not fully pleasing. I am fully confident that I made the right choice. I looked very carefully at the competitioni. The TSX smokes them all on value! Lastly, you cant tell is FWD, and you cant tell its a 4, thats praise!

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  Incredible value - great all-around - 2004 Acura TSX
  By JanTSX - September 3 - 4:00 pm

  Ive had my TSX for over three years now and am really impressed. Build quality is exceptional - Ive had one minor issue w/ my air conditioner in 3 years, but other than that, have just had to change the oil and rotate the tires. Lots of fun to drive. The navigation system is extremely easy to use and intuitive. Took me all of 5 mins. to learn it. I always get comments on the interior lighting at night - very cool looking. Controls and gauges laid out very well. And the stability control program pretty much saved my life one day on I-459 in Birmingham, Alabama.

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  116,000 Mile Acura TSX 6M - 2004 Acura TSX
  By lucky_doggg7 - September 2 - 1:09 pm

  Ownership - Replacement/repairs to date consist of: two sets of rotors (centric premium) and pads (Porterfield R4S) driver and passenger side half shafts (rebuilts at $169 ea. undercuts the Dealer cost of $500+ ea.). Replacing the halfshafts cured the front end shake occuring between 50 and 60 mph. Stock Michelin Pilots lasted >60K miles. The third set of tires are now Michelin PS2s in the size of 235/40/18. This car has presented no other problems, really! The stories of Honda owners claiming they only put oil and gas in their cars are true! This is a very refreshing ownership change coming from Audi cars in terms of operating expense.

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  TSX Kidney Rattler - 2006 Acura TSX
  By I want my Audi back! - September 1 - 6:53 pm

  I did a ton of research, read many reviews, still think Im driving a different car than the rest of you out there. Best looking car in its class, inside and out. Best value for options included in base price. Looks like a luxury car however the body shell is just a tin Honda. Noticed rattles and squeaks after driving it for just one day. Very disappointed in the "extremely" abrupt reaction of the car when it hits the bumps on the road, and the rattles it is creating due to the harsh ride. Id really like to return this car. All they need to do is add some sound proofing underneath and improve the way it handles normal road bumps, and this car would be a winner.

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  2005 Acura TSX - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Driver - September 1 - 5:21 am

  The best drive I ever had in the TSX was the test drive. It makes a very good first impression. This quickly wears off though after you drive it for a month or two. It quickly develops rattles and squeaks and the precise handling quickly loses alignment. Its never starts without cranking too long. The fuel economy is much worse than advertised, even under optimal conditions. Seats are narrow and uncomfortable for an average-sized person. No side-body protective molding. Also, some of the fancy features are poorly implemented. It has power seats but no position memory which is worse (slower and less reliable) than plain old manual seats. Theres no "mute" button for the stereo.

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  2006 Acura TSX - 2006 Acura TSX
  By ken g. - August 30 - 8:43 pm

  This is a great car to drive. Handles very well. Fit and finish are very good.

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  Luxury + Value =TSX - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Austin TSX - August 30 - 3:31 pm

  We bought the car for my wife, but I am finding myself driving it more and more. We bought the Carbon Gray Pearl, and it looked amazing in the sunlight (metalic flakes). We love the easy to use Navi., and the gas milage is awsome (30+ on hwy). The stereo is great and the XM option is very clear even in the TEXAS hill country. I test drove and priced the competition and could not have found a better value. I am adding the Hondata ECU Reflash for a little more power (will void warranty). Drove a friends with it and loved it (230 est. hp, faster that a 330, 250,or 2.0T). Voice everything is a nice feature to have when cruising the highway. Love evey minute behind the wheel.

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  Incredible Car, Incredible Value - 2006 Acura TSX
  By STLCarGuy - August 30 - 1:44 am

  The car is truly the best value in the segment IMO. Features per dollar and residual value are top notch! Two major contributors to my buying the car. The sporting character of this sedan continues to impress me. Theres a real balance of Economy and Performance with the Engine. I know those two words dont normally go together, but I think they do in the TSX. Four cylinder fuel economy is a huge plus right now, but I feel good that theres enough power to go when I need to. Interstate power availability is more than adequate. For me, the size is just ideal. Compact enough to feel sporty, but roomy enough for four people to be comfortable, plus a fair amount of trunk space.

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  Value+Luxury=TSX - 2006 Acura TSX
  By LUVMYTSX - August 28 - 12:14 pm

  I bought the car for my wife, but I am finding myself driving it more than she does. I love the Voice controled Navigation, Phone, A/C and the Gas Milage is amazing. You really cant go wrong for the price and the features. Same features from Audi=38,560 (2.0T), BMW=36,850 (325i), and G35=35,400 (Gas Guzzler in the city). I test drove them each one for a weekend, and for the money you pay Acura is the best VALUE. My dealership gave me a great deal (no hassle on price), and tires for life. I live in Austin and this car was make for the roads of the hill country.

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  Im Extremely Pleased - 2006 Acura TSX
  By dmaccioc - August 20 - 11:54 pm

  For the money, I couldnt find a more well-rounded, well-equipped vehicle. As someone who lives and works in an urban area, this vehicle makes great strides in active safety. Im able to carry on a phone conversation (hands-free) while being guided by the navigation to a new address, and have a better view of the road thanks to those fantastic Xenon headlights! Everything about the car feels solid and well-thought out - needless to say, Im extremely satisfied.