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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  fun to drive - 2006 Acura TSX
  By rosen - August 18 - 10:17 am

  handling is exceptional, especially on cournering. variable seat position excellent. more interior room than expected. could improve on the night setting of rear view miror, to eliminate glare.

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  a great value - 2004 Acura TSX
  By mike k - August 17 - 10:00 am

  Im very happy with it.

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  Very Impressed - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Jeff - August 16 - 9:03 pm

  Love the car!!! Excellent handling and very quick. Also, I like that it doesnt have DRLs or automatic door locks and headlights, I like to be in control of the car, not the other way around. For the price, it cant be beat.

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  Acura TSX Good car! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By AB - August 10 - 2:03 pm

  We just bought our Acura TSX. I wanted black, my wife silver. Finally! we bought, you know...silver. We like the car, it is cute, stylish, good interiors, great navigation system. I am getting about 20 mpg, just bought 3 weeks back. Unfortunately, a nail went through our rear tire and we had to replace a tire, $235. Overall, seems like a good buy!

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  2nd TSX and Loving it - 2006 Acura TSX
  By wilson - August 8 - 11:23 am

  I buy a new vehicle about every year or two. This is my second TSX. I had an 05 model and just purchsed an 06. I love these cars. The ride in my 06 is somewhat smoother than the 05, and the bluetooth and ipod jack are a nice addition for 06 along with the 17" wheels and tires. If you want a semi- luxury car that is different from what most people drive with excellent fuel ecomony THIS IS YOUR CAR!!! On top of all that...it is a blast to drive. I never had to take my 05 to the dealership for anything but an oil change. Such a nice change from American made cars.

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  Fun, but still practical - 2006 Acura TSX
  By senseless1 - August 6 - 9:18 am

  I was concerned that the 4 cylinder engine would be a negative, but it outperforms any 6 cylinder Ive owned. The hidden bonus is Im actually getting very close to EPA gas mileage numbers a first. The manu-matic transmission feature is useful and good for keeping the revs in peak range, cornering and brake assist. I didnt think I would use this much, but actually prefer it over straight automatic. The handling is exceptional and I feel confident on the highway because it tracks so well. The TSX is 2 cars in one: quiet and refined or a drivers car when you want it to be.

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  I love this car! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Kya - August 5 - 1:01 am

  This is a fantastic car for the price.

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  Buy this car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Colorado Fun - July 31 - 4:30 pm

  After researching and test driving for months I decided to buy the TSX. I LOVE THIS CAR! I have owned a Lexus ES-300, Honda Accord, Lexus RX 300, and a Nissan Pathfinder. Without question, I like this car more than any of those - by far. Excellent power to weight ratio, luxury features galore, excellent ride and build quality. BMW 3-series & the Infinity G-35 cant match the overall value of this car. If you are looking for a car priced under 30k - test drive this one and you wont be sorry.

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  Loving the TSX! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Best car yet! - July 29 - 7:07 pm

  I bought a TC in 2005 and traded it in for a 2006 TSX, what an improvement. Better power, comfort, bigger car. I love the drive...excellent quality inside and out.

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  Love this car!!! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Rhonda - July 29 - 4:30 pm

  Love my TSX!!!! Had the wonderful opportunity to drive a friends 2006 Acura and loved it so much that I went and bought one. The luxuary is incredible for the price.