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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  2009 Acura TSX - 2009 Acura TSX
  By M. Alari - April 22 - 10:23 am

  Down sized from a luxury SUV. First benefit is the average MPG for my first week of 29.4! Great styling, performance and comfort.

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  Best Overall Value - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Scott - April 22 - 9:46 am

  I have had this car for almost a year now (silver w/6spd). Pros: many standard features, superior quality build, perfect control layout, low maint. requirements, fun to drive. Cons: average stereo, weak engine below 3k RPMs, occasional dash rattle, and seemingly weak paint. The paint seems thin as even the slightest rock chips/scratches the paint. I have had cars with more durable finishes. Overall: You will not find a car in this class that beats the TSX when it comes to value. I looked at the Audi, for example, and when you look at cost vs. features, build quality, reliability, etc., nothing can complete with the TSXs value.

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  Great car, highly recommended - 2004 Acura TSX
  By jjlatch - April 12 - 12:28 pm

  Our 2004 TSX is fun to drive. 5sp auto makes a huge diffence on power delivery over our older accord. Would highly recommend. We have black (looks great...hard to keep clean), will probably trade in for a 06 white TSX. I read some complaints of poor traction in rain, we never had any problems. The HIDs are super! Car handles like a roller coaster.

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  You Cant Go Wrong With A TSX - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Donald Jones - April 10 - 10:00 am

  I COULD NOT BE MORE PLEASED. WHAT A GREAT CAR! I TRADED IN MY 2003 ACCORD EX FOR THE TSX. IT HANDELS MUCH BETTER THAN THE ACCORD. GREAT BUILD QUALITY, FUN TO DRIVE, GOOD GAS MPG. I WOULD NOT CHANGE A THING. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS CAR.

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  Reality Check - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Orangeville Steve - April 10 - 10:00 am

  I am a true owner of the TSX, not one who just test drove the car. I dont sell cars so no bias involved. I own several vehicles, all 2004 models including an MDX, and an ES300. The TSX is my commuter car, therefore no NAVI reqd. If you could just drive the car not knowing its cost. Just compare its driveability, comfort and features. This is a stunning car to drive that mixes an excellent dose of comfort, power, and manuverability in a very affordable package. For shear driving enjoyment the TSX is my favorite.

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  NIce luxury Sedan - 2005 Acura TSX
  By S.f - April 5 - 12:54 am

  This car is awesome the style of it is really nice it has alot to offer plus.It has all the bells and whistles I can even imagine if haveing.I specially like the headlights they are nice and bright,the rearview mirrior has a dimmer that will block any annoying rear lights in your eyes.It has heated seats that is a plus 4 comfort.It has climate control So if ur hot turn the ac up,ur passenger is cold put the heater on.u can have a set temperture 73.it runs really smooth nice horsepower consider that any more i might get a ticket.Its stylish since i am a mom I can still have style plus 4 doors a plus if u have kids.Very dependable ,nice warranty

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  tsx - 2005 Acura TSX
  By S. DiGrego - April 5 - 12:40 am

  I love my TSX. Smooth Ride, great great features and its just amazing, there are no words you have to drive it to understand!

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  I like it but... - 2004 Acura TSX
  By leejin1 - April 3 - 8:43 pm

  I like driving this car. Handling is very good. The 4 cylinder engine is fairly powerful. The interior is what I really love. But, I have a kid now. And I found it very hard to carry my baby in this car. I never worried about back seat space and its access. But I notice more and more. It is really a 2 door car than a 4 door. If you are single and looking for a fun car, this is it. But if you are looking for a 4 door sedan, this is not the car you want to consider. My friends have Audi A4 and BMW 3 series. I think they are better as family car, even though they are similar size cars.

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  A great car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By richard - April 1 - 11:11 pm

  I love this car. fast and is only 4 cylinder.

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  Mixed Expirience - 2005 Acura TSX
  By G Gagnon - March 31 - 12:44 am

  I initially loved my TSX, but regretably the ownership expirience has turned out to be quite frustrating. My copy has an idle vibration unbecoming of a $30K car. It also quickly developed brake issues in first 15K miles. Vehicle also makes high pitched whining sound at speed. Told brake grinding sound and vibration were normal. Dealer blame for whine goes to tires. Dealer no help with regards to any of these issues -- "talk to Michellin". Climate control display shows incorrect temperature (by about 5 degrees). Will trade in on something else within the coming weeks.