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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  On My Radar - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Autocrat - June 27 - 5:13 pm

  It was always really fun to drive, but I hadnt really considered the TSX until the 06 model came out. Now slightly more powerful, but much more techno-equipped, with complete hands- free Bluetooth capabilities, iPod interface, trip computer, much nicer steering wheel and gauges, improved exterior look, fog lights,seating memory, and other personalization features (my favorite: you can set the remote unlocking to unlock all the doors on one touch, not just drivers door). Autotrans is soft but ideal for everyday commuting, while sportshift is very crisp and great for mountain roads and other fun driving without heavy traffic. About 25 mpg from 205 hp 4 cylinder engine that feels like a V6.

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  86000 miles and still lovin it - 2004 Acura TSX
  By FOUND939 - June 21 - 3:25 pm

  Just an update on vehicle #719. Original review from 2003. Got my TSX in April 2003. I now have about 86K on it and it is holding up suberbly! I use Yokohamas for tread now cuz the Michelins are way to expensive and are not rated as well.

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  Almost settled 4 an Accord - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Bella - June 21 - 9:22 am

  This car replaced my Civic, a big step up without the huge price tag. I LOVE this car. I wanted luxury features and I got them. This car has everything (except nav.) standard and all for $27K. Im SO glad I didnt settle for the Accord. This is quick, sporty and a very smooth ride. Best of all, my 61" husband also fits confortably and loves to drive it.

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  TSX review - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Rich541 - June 17 - 5:15 pm

  I am really happy with the overall performance and handeling of my 05 TSX. The only thing that I think that could be changed on the car as the main thing, is the engine power. There is a very fair amount of power that you get from the car and it is very fun to drive just there is a little missing in that part. I have had this car longer then I have owned any other vehicles in the past. Usually I keep for around 9 months, and I have owned my TSX for almost 1.5 years. So I really think it is "fun to drive" or I wouldnt have it now. There has only been a few times that it has gone into the shop for minor adjustments and due mainly to annoyance only.

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  Excellent Car! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Amanda Beardsley - June 15 - 8:44 am

  My Acura TSX is the best car I have ever owned! It is sleek and stylish. The performance is great and that of a luxury car! I will always buy Acuras in my future!

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  Nan - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Nan - June 13 - 11:31 am

  I love this car! Quick acceleration. Nice features. Easy to handle. I shopped around and this was the best value for the money. A small luxury car that is easy and fun to drive. No maintenance problems (yet). Not a lot of leg room in the back (but thats typical but Ive had adults sit back there comfortably. The only problem Ive had is the outdoor temperature sensor gauge runs about 4 degrees hot. Not a biggie!

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  first purchased car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Shannon - June 11 - 10:20 pm

  I am so excitied. Normally I purchase used cars. This is my first new car. Its fast,I cant stop driving it. In 1 day I put 100 miles on my car. Its the color I was looking for, plus the interior color. It rides smooth, and takes fast turns smooth. The 5sp manual is fun to...I rate this the perfect car for anyone.

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  ON TO # 2 - 2006 Acura TSX
  By BizzyB - June 7 - 1:40 pm

  I am now onto my 2nd TSX and I would have to say that my 06 is far better than my 04 and I absolutely loved my 04. I went with the pearl white/parchement and I cannot stop the compliments! The blue tooth is amazing and handy, sound system is more than adequate. Overall a real winner when I considered a BMW and a Mercedes and I keep coming back to the TSX!!

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  Excellent blend of luxury and sporty - 2006 Acura TSX
  By TSXer_MD - June 7 - 7:42 am

  Have had 2006 TSX (Nighthawks) w/o NAV for over a month and love it! It has plenty of power for me to ride on busy DC Beltway with lots of fun. It is so nice to have everything (nice and yet useful) loaded in a package. Hands- free/Bluetooth works fantastic with my Motorola V600. Memorized seat positions allow my wife to drive on weekends without manually adjusting seat anymore. I am afraid she is abandoning her Odyssey for my TSX (kidding - Odyssey works great for the family). Sound system is excellent (still enjoy free XM for now - $15/mo seems worthwhile if you have long commute). Surprisingly the purchase experience was very pleasant (paid INVOICE PRICE exactly).

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  Review - 2005 Acura TSX
  By John - June 4 - 11:46 am

  Car has plenty of power, smooth transmission and very responsive. I cannot imagine a better car for the money.