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:

• 

  "dr tsx" - 2005 Acura TSX
  By notoriousdk - October 16 - 7:50 pm

  Excellent performance, and fuel mileage, smooth engine, very luxurious and fully loaded for its price. It is a great value, but it does have some minor defects and rattles which is a bit surprising. Overall great car.

• 

  Fun Drive - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Terry R - October 12 - 4:24 pm

  I love the 25-30 mpg, the 4 cyl is great but wish it was available in v6. It is an excellent car with no problems, going on 28,000 miles.

• 

  Decent Car, but overall, disappointed - 2005 Acura TSX
  By TSX26 - October 11 - 12:35 am

  After putting nearly 8000 miles on my TSX, I am less than pleased with the amount of problems I have had. The moonroof was rattling, after a second visit to the dealership, they put a tape around the sunroof, which helped, but it is rattling again. CD changer was replaced because it was skipping. Paint seems to chip easily. Fuel economy is decent, however, since it requires premium gas, it does add up. Power is just ok at initial get-go, you can really tell its a 4 cylinder. However, the engine is smooth and does handle well on the freeway. If I had to go back and remake my decision, I would have gone with the Accord EXV6 coupe (more power and reliability).

• 

  Awesome Car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By steve - October 8 - 9:30 pm

  Bought the car in December and have about 2200 miles on it. This car is the sports car my Eclipse never was. Great handling, smooth ride and great acceleration. Youd think you had a V6 under the hood. The quality is typical Honda/Acura--everything works perfectly. I really like the design of the interior--beautifully thought out, clean, functional, comfortable. I also bought the spoiler and aero kit for a more agressive look. The car looks fantastic in black.

• 

  Acura TSX 2005 - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Uddy Hanson - October 5 - 3:37 pm

  I love my 2005 Acura TSX. I looked at many cars before I test drove the TSX. Once I drove the car, I decided that this is the car for me. I have owned two Honda Civics and was looking to move up to a premium brand. Nothing else in the price range can match the TSXs features. HID headlights, heated leather seats, power moonroof, 6 disc in dash CD changer, XM satellite radio, dual zone climate control, and VSA all standard. Why would anyone buy anything else?

• 

  Low price Luxury - 2005 Acura TSX
  By veniceknite - October 4 - 1:35 am

  I love the 6 speed, but realize this is a 4 cylinder car and that limits so much. It is very tight, stubby vehicle with a great look inside and out. Has all the options standard except for navigation. 25 miles per gallon so far at the max.

• 

  Everything I Expected & Then Some - 2005 Acura TSX
  By D W - September 30 - 11:18 pm

  The TSX is an excellent, well-rounded, highly reliable, fun-to-drive sedan. Im seriously thinking about buying a second one for the wife. I thought about Audi (for AWD) & BMW (pure performance), but its hard to justify the $10-15K premium, given how good this car is. Very satisfied thus far.

• 

  Do not trust the review, test drive it - 2009 Acura TSX
  By haidongh - September 30 - 10:53 am

  We only considered Lexus IS or ES and TSX. We have owned 2009 TSX for 2 weeks. It is bigger than IS, which is a good thing and a bad thing. We bought TSX, mainly for the interior. My wife does not like the exterior, but I really like it. The car is the right size for us, but maybe too big for people who need to navigate through tight garage. It is the just the best value for entry level luxury sedan, you get a lot for the money. You have to test drive it to know if you like it or not. EPS saves power.

• 

  First New Car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Need for Speed - September 30 - 2:03 am

  This is my first brand new car and I have no regrets. The 6 speed manual is very responsive to my every move, easy to shift and loads of fun to drive. Even with passangers or cargo, it has enough power not to be weighed down.

• 

  Luxury car at reasonable price - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Rich - September 22 - 1:51 pm

  The TSX is a great value for the critical buyer. The sharp styling and extremely nice lines make this car stand out in any crowd. The features that are all standard put other luxury cars to shame. Heated seats, heated mirrors, dual temp controls, xm sat radio, six disc in dash... the list seems endless. The performance is an added surprise for those of us that like a little kick out of driving. Handles like many past sports cars Ive owned. 100% satisfied.