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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  I love this car - 2004 Acura TSX
  By david - March 29 - 3:17 pm

  This is my fourth Acura - and the best of the lot. Quick, responsive, fun to drive and economical to boot. Every feature I wanted came as standard equipment and absolutely no buying hassle from the dealer. A really good ownership experience.

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  FUN FUN FUN...no regret! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By HC - March 21 - 8:05 pm

  This car is the perfect package, combining performance, luxury, fun, design, and quality in the standard package. Although, acceleration cannot compare to BMW, Lexus, or Audi, its perfect for everyday driving. Comparing to the entry level vehicles offered by the 3 listed above, TSX wins hands down. In the standard pkg at 36,100 cdn, leather, sunroof, automatic, 6 cd changer, heated seats, etc...basically all you could ask for except the nav option. I have it in black, looks great with the contrasting chrome.

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  Great Car for the price - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Tdubby23 - March 4 - 1:39 pm

  This car is really great. It is so quiet inside and very sporty. The car has a real up market feel and is a great choice for this price range. Dont buy any other car in the $25,000 range until you test drive a TSX. Great Reliability and tons of standard upgrades.

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  Would suggest to anyone. - 2005 Acura TSX
  By flathismyhero - March 1 - 6:33 pm

  Absolutely wonderful car. I use it as my fun car and drive a 92 cavalier to work. Great for long trips.

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  THE car to get!! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Sherb - March 1 - 7:43 am

  We looked at Accord/Altima and opted for the TSX. You simply cannot beat more standard options and a comfortable ride for the price. I put on 3K miles in a week just joy riding. Rides the same to this day. No maintenance problems. Residual value is good, too. We are everyday drivers and dont mind a 4-cyl but it cranks out 200 hp. It does great and were going to trade in our SUV for an 06 TSX. Definitely give this car a try!

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  You must test drive this car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By tsand72 - February 27 - 2:50 am

  Ive spent the last 3 weeks reviewing and testing driving cars in the $24,000 - $34,000 range, including Accords, Outback 2.5i wagons, BMW 325is, Nissan Maximas, the Toyota RAV4, the Acrua TL, and the TSX. Our need was to have a car that could sub as a family sedan (ie, put a car seat in it if necessary), but provide suitable transportation for business travel and work commuting. My hope was to find a car with a sporty pretence but with a sedan functionality - the TSX fit the bill. The plethora of reviews killing the TL for rattles, squeaks, and harmonic vibrations scared us away from that car. The Accord would have been our second option if the negotiation on the TSX had fallen through.

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  Very, very GOOD Acura... - 2005 Acura TSX
  By JGN - February 20 - 7:51 pm

  I used to drive a MAXIMA for 10 years. I really liked the car. However, the new model comes with a steep price tag so I decided for an up-scale model such as the TSX. Ive never looked back since. For only 25.855.00, Ive got a car that really loves to rev and the engine sounds so effortlessly in doing so...The TSX comes with all high-end features found in the entry luxury class...The performance in top notch and most important, ACURA is known for its reliability...If you want the prestige of german cars, it will cost you dearly. If you want performance, good quality and reliability for a reasonable price, go for the TSX. You wont regret it...!!!

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  I finally got one - 2009 Acura TSX
  By MB - February 5 - 12:36 pm

  I purchased my TSX this past weekend (Base Model Grigio/Ebony interior). I was going to get the Tech package but opted not too. The base model had everything that I wanted such as heated seats, iPod integration and XM radio. The ride is smooth and though it is not a V6, the 2.4 engine has lots of power. I have read many reviews that claim that the car is not exciting to drive and there is nothing that jumps out to them. The 2 days that I have had my TSX, people have been looking and asking me questions about the car.

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  STRICTLY FOREIGN - 2009 Acura TSX
  By C-LO - February 1 - 7:23 pm

  Bought this car for my wife. We love it! Traded an SUV. Can you say gas saver! The quality of the car is 1st class. It has so much leg room in it. My wife wanted the TL, until she fell in love with the TSX. For the price, its gonna be hard to beat!

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  A Fun ride - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Jim D - February 1 - 11:06 am

  Ive had BMW, Mercedes,Audi, Nissan and nothing tops the ride...........comfort and performance.........a fun car to drive.........had it 2 years and no rattles..............fit and finish..............will stay with Acura