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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  Surprising Find - 2004 Acura TSX
  By scrfan - November 28 - 10:00 am

  Shopping for a Audi or BMW and went to look at the TSX at last minute.Got awesome car for at least $7000 less. Great car.

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  Awesome car for the $$ - 2005 Acura TSX
  By TSX Lady - November 22 - 6:26 pm

  This car is awesome. Only a 4 cylinder but it has plenty of get up and go for in town and highway driving. Everything comes standard on the car except the navigation. It is gorgeous inside and out. I get at least 1 compliment a week on my TSX.

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  Serious bang for the buck - 2005 Acura TSX
  By HarleyTX - November 17 - 8:26 pm

  After driving and pricing several Euro competitors, Im extremely happy with my TSX. Even though its not the fast car out there, it has plenty of grunt in the higher rpms. The interior, like most Honda products, is above reproach and the list of standard features is what sold this car. Take this car to your favorite country road and its a blast.

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  Awesome Car! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Billy - November 17 - 8:23 am

  This car is amazing. Not only are most all the feature voice command but everything is of easy reach. The stereo system is awesome. VSA works wonders, I use it all the time.

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  Very Good for price...!!! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By JimmyTSX - November 12 - 2:40 am

  This is the first ACURA I own. All the amenities come as standard. The driving experience is good, not boring at all. The small I4- 2.4L, really performs well. Very smooth and ready to rev quite effortlessly. The interior is well laid-out and good materials abound. It surely gives you the feeling of a entry-luxury model. All in all, this car wont win over the famed and famous euro brands but for a model under 26K, the TSX will gain a lot of enthusiasts.

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  Great Car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Frankie - November 11 - 8:42 pm

  This is a great car. My second Acura (1994 Integra), I went back to Acura for the dependability. I love this car. The six-speed makes it fun to drive and the pick up makes it rewarding to press the gas. The navigation system is a feature I do not plan to live without again, and the XM radio is nice when traveling.

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  I love this car! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Elisa - November 11 - 6:19 pm

  This car is not only safe but it is fun to drive. I love the little kick it has when you accelerate. It is the most fun 4 cyl car I have ever driven. The gas mileage isnt bad either, but it depends in all what you are looking for in mileage. All in all great car!

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  great car. - 2005 Acura TSX
  By asada - November 10 - 3:57 pm

  Great car to drive in open road and canyon roads. Just wish it had more torque power range off the line.

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  A car to keep - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Bob Campbell - November 10 - 12:25 pm

  Usually buy new car every two years. This is one car we will keep for a long time! Solid, comfortable, & fun to drive long miles at a stretch. Interstate trips of 500 miles+/day are enjoyable. Have owned 5 Camrys in the past and our TSX is a step up. We are 70+ years old. My wife (all 52" of her) loves to drive this car. Auto trans is smooth and tractable summer & winter in Vermont. Ride is a bit firm but gives great control. Second car is 2005 Civic LX - similar and good low cost alternative for local drives.

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  Great Car! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Stephanie - November 10 - 12:16 am

  This car is great. I have had it for 5 months and I have had no problems with it. It is a fun car to drive and it does have some pickup to it. I do not regret my purchase at all!