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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  Great Car and better value - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Tom - June 4 - 8:21 am

  Is a great car and an even better value. I came from a three-year lease on a loaded Saab 9-3, and although there are a few missing "luxury" features I used on the Saab, I really enjoy the TSX. Drives great, and the voice recognition and bluetooth features work flawlessly (see comment). Coming from the Saab, had to learn to rev engine higher before shifting for response, but never does the car feel underpowered.

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  For your money...its the best. - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Offset_98 - June 3 - 9:59 pm

  Coming off our modified Camaro Z28 my wife and I wanted something safe, reliable and roomy. We cross-shopped everything in this class and it came to the TSX, Accord and Passat. We went w/ the TSX because while not the fastest of the group it offered the most for our money. It comes standard with leather, heated seats, power seats, blue tooth wireless phone, auto. climate control, sunroof, xenon lights, 6-disc in dash CD and audio controls on the steering wheel. While you can get this stuff w/ the others, the Passat required an Auto. trans and another $6000 and the Accord just didnt have the features (xenon, bluetooth) the TSX had. Did I mention the 5-star crash tests?

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  Excellent value and pleasant car to driv - 2006 Acura TSX
  By KT - May 30 - 11:10 am

  Have had the TSX for three weeks. It is a most pleasant car to drive, better than the Volvo, MBZ, BMW and other cars we have had over the years. Good overall size, reasonable fuel economy, and the engine is excellent - can use a bit more low-end torque but is adequate - equals if not surpass many of the six cylinders. Steering is a little heavy and turning diameter is wide, with a somewhat firm ride. The interior is great exterior is clean without overdoing anything. Overall an excellent value.

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  The perfect car! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By jdriver72 - May 29 - 10:43 am

  I traded in my 07 Civic Ex/nav for my 09 TSX. Its beautiful! In this price range you just cant beat it. Went in for a TL but fell in love with the tsx. Under 800 miles and I am getting 25 mpg. The sound system is amazing and the iPod interface is astounding. It rides like a dream and turns a lot of heads

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  JDC - 2004 Acura TSX
  By JDC 52 - May 23 - 10:00 am

  WONDERFUL CAR . 20K MILES IN 14 MONTHS .DRIVEN 100 MILES A DAY AND NO PROBLEMS AT ALL. I ATTRIBUTE THIS TI JAPANESE MANUFACTURE.

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  Great all round performer - 2005 Acura TSX
  By jamesoil - May 22 - 1:15 am

  This car has been an excellent replacement for my BMW 3 series. I was sceptical at first but have come to realize that BMW is not the be all and end all in sport sedans. Great price good fuel economy and fully loaded base model made this an easy decision. Handles all weather conditions well. I live in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada and see summer conditions as well as extreme winter driving conditions every year. The traction control in this car puts me at par with any SUV on paved icy and snow covered roads. This is a fine entry level compact sports/luxury sedan. Many reviewers have said that a 4 cylinder 200hp engine is not enough power. I disagree. Remember this is an entry level sports sedan.

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  CPO Goodness - 2005 Acura TSX
  By ElJefe - May 2 - 12:44 pm

  I have wanted a TSX since I first drove one in 2003. My dream is now reality: I picked up my 05 CPO 6-speed with Nav last night. The TSX is all about the sum of its parts, the way it drives. It may not be the fastest or pull the most Gs, but man o man is it fun to drive. Combine this with jewel-like quality and an impressive standard feature set, and you have a winner in the TSX.

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  Lovin it! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By mjoe - April 28 - 7:11 pm

  I love my Acura TSX. It handles the corners great and comfort is the tops! This is my second Acura and I am sold and I will never go to another car make. Nothing but fun in this car.

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  A young professionals dream car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By GM - April 26 - 12:53 pm

  I love the interior and exterior design features of this car. It is the perfect car for a young professional with no family (as the back seat is very small). I have only one complaint thus far---This car requires premium gas!!!

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  Must be a lemon - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Ouzo - April 23 - 7:51 am

  I was very taken by the price/value of this car. However I have had many problems. Brakes, AC, Stereo and console lights to name a few. The car was not designed to be servived affordably. Total cost of ownership has been comparable to more expensive cars I passed up that include better warranties. Should have bought a BMW.