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 BRSJ - November 9 - 12:53 pm

  I bought my car the 1st week the 09 TSX babies went on sale. I dont regret a thing. I looked at the IS, A4, MB C-class, Volvos of various models, and the TSX won hands down with $, features & reliability. Magnificent car. Love the navi knob - a touch screen would require the eyes to be off the road. My TSX has a telescoping steering wheel and a 6 disc in-dash CD player. All my friends love my car. At night the interior looks awesome! UFO style! Fun car & will last a long time!

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  2 years + in TSX - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Seattle TSX - November 5 - 2:34 am

  Fun to drive if you like light 4-cylinder cars that you have to rev. I usually drive far too fast in this car. Great value for the money, plus reliable. If I were comparing a 3-series, a Passat, and an A4 to this car again, I would buy it again. Extremely comfortable seats, both front and back. The 6-speed stick is essential to this car if you are planning to buy an automatic you should just buy an Accord. I love this car and bought it because of the quality and value proposition. However, as a Euro-car type, it appeals to me mentally but ultimately fails to satisfy in spite of its excellence and in spite of the fact that Id buy it again. Lifes a contradiction.

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  Fun to Drive = 10 - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Carlos - October 29 - 5:10 pm

  I now have 20,000 miles on my TSX. I love my job, but I love my commute even more, thanks to this car. I get 25mpg in a mixed driving. On a road trip, over 30mpg. The only problem I have had is that the jockey box lid hinges were too tight, so the wrong compartment would open. Fixed it myself in 5 minutes. I like the fact that this car isnt as common as 3-series, and G35s. Actually, its not in the same class as those cars, but its just as fun, interior features are first class, and you get Honda reliability. I even appreciate the fact that there is no timing belt (its a chain), since I plan to keep this car for a long, long time.

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  Go drive it !! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Mike Green - October 28 - 10:48 am

  If you are considering a sedan in the upscale market, go drive this car. Originally I wasnt prepared to kiss goodbye that kind of money for a FWD 4 cyl car (came from a BMW) but after driving it, the cars responses were so agile, yet forgiving...sharp yet smooth. I find the car has good power at low rpm and GREAT acceleration above about 4,000 rpm. Havent driven it in the winter yet but am getting a set of Michelins w/rims. Overall I am very happy with this car.

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  Great car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By sportingbill - October 27 - 10:46 pm

  The Acura TSX is supposed to be the entry-level sedan. If it is, this is a fine entry level. Everything, meaning everything, has performed as advertised on this car since purchase 10 months ago. It is quick, it is nimble, it is a blast to drive. If you are overweight, you might not be as comfortable in this smallish interior as some. It has a 4-cylinder engine, but it is tuned to performance levels. Pickup has never been an issue.

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  Not too bad - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Weno2 - October 26 - 11:03 pm

  This is my third Acura, and the TSX isnt bad. TSX was best for the buck. I havent taken it on a road trip, and I cant wait. Car handles well, and I love the interior. The exterior looks better and better every day. I love the gas mileage Im getting, and I get looks b/c of the pin-striping. The ride isnt too bad. Firm, but not rough. Plenty of room in the trunk. The car emits more outside (wind) noise than I thought. There is a blind spot when Im in reverse, and its a bother. Know more about the car when the snow flies.

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  Great car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By pkp144 - October 26 - 11:32 am

  This is as smooth of a car as you will find. not too big, not small, just right. The 4cyl is buttery smooth, and the tranny is unreal! The car begs to be driven. The car looks like nothing on the road. Averaging 29- 31 mpg on the highway and total avg of 25 mpg. That is stout!

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  Very Very Nice - 2005 Acura TSX
  By TT - October 25 - 12:00 am

  Pro 1) The MT is just a dream to drive. 2) Seats that fit just right. 3) Honda/Acuras safety and quality reliability. Cons 1) The engine needs more torque, but if I wanted that, I should of got a TL. 2) When the car was purchased, the rear seat fold down did not work for right side, when using the key. Though the pull string works from the trunk.

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  Great Car! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By David W - October 18 - 4:38 pm

  I bought this car for my wife and quickly realized I wanted to steal it from her. It is a great car to drive and has enough room for a family. The car is very affordable and out performs any other car in this price range.

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  Best Overall Sedan - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Dallas Realtor - October 18 - 1:50 am

  Very comfortable in the front. Theres not an abundance of space, but its very well used. My passengers are comfortable in the back all day. It also accelerates quietly and smoothly with plenty of power. You hardly notice the shift points. Good gas mileage, I average 29 MPG in Dallas driving conservatively & 24.5 MPG driving aggressively. Theres not any squeaks or rattles. The turning radius, as mentioned in other reviews, is pretty sorry for a vehicle of this size. However, the car handles exceptionally well: very nimble and sure footed. Very well appointed vehicle even in base form. Good luck finding a finer vehicle for under 26k! Practical & Fun, whats not to love?