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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  Toms Acura - 2005 Acura TSX
  By tom Verduin - January 4 - 9:11 pm

  Great balance of comfort, performance and economy. Looks great, sounds great, great value!

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  TSX AUTO/NAVI - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Gwitz - January 3 - 1:07 pm

  While this car may not have the V6 that many desire, I find that the i-vtec 4 provides a perfect balance between performance and economy. I have been very pleased with my ownership experience and will highlight a couple of the top reasons why (not an exhaustive list). 1. Service - I have dealt with multiple dealerships to add accessories and get oil changes. They were all eager to serve and make their cutomers comfortable. Very good post-purchase relations. 2. Price - Multiple thousands of dollars cheaper than a comparably equipped BMW 3 or MB c230. 3. Interior Room - The ONLY car in the entry/ luxury category that can comfortably fit a 65" driver. 4. Features!

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  Awesome Car,way better than 3Series etc - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Rocker - January 2 - 9:33 pm

  The TSX happens to be the ultimate combination of pleasure, fun, sporty, reliable and low cost driving machine. This car drives great, feels great, runs great and does everything splendid it is designed to do. Dont have any complaints about my TSX and definitely recommend this one!!!

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  Diamond in the Rough - 2005 Acura TSX
  By GDK - December 29 - 11:07 am

  The TSX is the best value for the money and is better looking than most cars in the same class, including the BMW 3. The interior is much more up to date than the 3, and the dash is much sharper. Fuel economy is great, particullary with high gas prices today. It is equally as fun to drive as the 3 series and without the BMW sticker price. You get much more for your money with this overall package and reliabilty will be much better than a German made car.

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  Great Value - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Artie - December 24 - 7:53 am

  Great car for the money, great gas mileage and power, great stereo.

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  Love it!!! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Deanna - December 23 - 9:02 pm

  I was waffling between a top of the line Camry and this car. Although I paid $2K more for this car - it was worth it. I love my TSX! The best feature is that they only come two ways...with or without navigation - everything else is standard. There was no negotiating all of the options, just the car as a whole. Made the purchase go much smoother also...no pushy salesman trying to sell you extra options to boost the profit margin. Bottom line is that a car is worth exactly what youre willing to pay for it. I didnt pay MSRP, but I can see how others would...the car sells itself. This is an easy way to step into luxury cars without being married to your payment.

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  Very Nice Care - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Yol - December 23 - 8:23 pm

  Since I picked it up I love the car. Its fun to drive and a lot of people talk about how nice the car is. I love the bluetooth and how easy it is to talk and for people to hear you. I think Acura really did a good job.

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  Love It - 2004 Acura TSX
  By My TSX - December 22 - 10:20 pm

  I drooled over this car for 2 years before I bought it, and it was worth the wait. I absolutely love it. Its a light feeling car, very nimble and comfortable, even good so far in snow even though I havent driven it a whole lot in snow yet. The exterior is very sexy, interior is too. Everything is laid out well in the cabin. My first foreign car is turning out to be a truly wonderful experience. Plus its the first car Ive ever owned myself (always used my parents cars). Had it for 8 months now and its been great. Very classy!

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  Great value - 2005 Acura TSX
  By hephtzibah - December 20 - 8:13 am

  Owned 325i and never thought Japan could win me back. BMW clearly has edge in handling and 6 is silk but TSX is infinitesimally behind. Throw in standard equipment and reliability and it is offer I could not refuse. Need to learn how to drive the 2.4. Remarkably tractable around town but when you really get into it the engine responds in a way only Acura iVTEC can. From high 3000s to redline just keeps pulling. Comfort and ambiance at top of class. Considered TL but its value measures against 5 series or E class. If you are in market for entry level sports sedan DRIVE THE TSX NOW

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  Buy a TSX Again? - 2004 Acura TSX
  By pete9797 - December 18 - 11:18 am

  Ive had my TSX for a little over a year now with absolutely no problems. I love this car. Fun to Drive, 30mpg, Navi is great, excellent sound system, very comfortable on long drives. Will definitely stay with Acura the only difference is whether I step up to the TL or RL when Im ready to buy again........