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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  Superb Vehicle - 2005 Acura TSX
  By John - August 23 - 2:13 am

  I have a vast knowledge of cars and chose the TSX because it is BY FAR the best value on the market. The TSX comes loaded with everything you would expect in a car in this class for an exceptionally reasonable price. The handling is superb, gas mileage is very impressive, and the standard features are TOP NOTCH! Fit and finish, it is very difficult to find a better car for the money. Make sure to test drive this car because it will not disappoint. It is truly a superb vehicle.

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  A fair review... this is a FUN car! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Delakhan - August 21 - 8:32 pm

  This car is seriously fun to drive! Its handling is excellent, and combined with a powerful inline 4 cylinder and interior creature comforts, makes this a great road trip car. If youre a racer, this car wont do it for you unless you start modding it. Fuel efficiency is good (I average around 25 mpg), but it still hurts that it costs about $40 to fill up nowadays because it needs premium gas. Ive had to get the brakes and rotors replaced (under warranty) after 7,000 miles, but that says more about how hard I drive this car than the build quality. The most important thing about this car is that I feel very safe in it, I cant stress this part enough.

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  05 Acura TSX w/navi - 2005 Acura TSX
  By kim - August 21 - 12:33 pm

  I went from a 99 TL to an 05 TSX. it goes without saying that the TL is a faster car, but the TSX eventually gets there. Its a little sluggish in either manual or automatic mode, but once you build up some momentum, the speed is definitely there. Also, the TSX is a 5 speed automatic, and the 99 TL is a 4 speed, which makes for better downshifting in my opinion. Acura/Honda needs to seriously work on the voice-activated feature on the navi. For the money, there shouldnt be any flaws, but unfortunately, there are plenty. All in all, if you can afford it, I’d suggest it.

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  AUDIO SYSTEM IS THE BEST!!! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Mitch Johannsen - August 20 - 12:28 pm

  I have had this vehicle for a total of four months and all I can say it that this is the most amazing vehicle I have ever owned. The sound system is by far the best out of all the vehicles that I have test driven. The Honda Accord and Civic cannot even compare to this system. I am not sure of the wattage but it sounds incredible. Bose, Harman Kardon... none of them can compare to this system that is in the TSX.

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  Best value on the market! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Kristen - August 19 - 7:01 pm

  I bought my Acura TSX AT w/ Navi a few months ago after conducting extensive research. It was between the Mini convertible, the new Volvo S40, and the TSX. I definitely made the right choice. The navigation system is GREAT. I can be anywhere and just tell the car to take me home, or I can pull up a list of nearby Chinese restaurants in less than 5 seconds. I disagree with reviews that it is overly complicated. The voice recognition does leave something to be desired, as it is only accurate about 60% of the time, but you wont need it. This is definitely the best "entry level luxury" car on the market for your money. Highly recommended!

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  Home run from Acura - 2005 Acura TSX
  By SC Boy - August 15 - 9:08 am

  This car is top notch. No problems. No bugs to work out. A sweet ride at an excellent price. Acura should be proud. Hopefully new models will improve the options like install electric seat adjusters. That is my only complaint. ...And Im picky.

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  Keep it simple - 2005 Acura TSX
  By skshrews - August 14 - 7:39 pm

  My wife just bought this car after 13 years and 250K in an Acura Integra, 92. Smooth, comfortable, and not "overly-teched", the car is simple to operate. Sunroof, leather seats, plenty of storage is standard. Acceleration is excellent, and 6 speed manual keeps you entertained while driving. Pricing is reasonable relative similar cars. Weve been getting over 30-35 MPG. Acura reliability is the best in the business, the first scheduled maintenance (other than oil changes) is 100K.

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  All the major things right but - 2005 Acura TSX
  By stillooking - August 12 - 11:46 pm

  could do much better with build quality on minor but irritating items. First month, discovered high pitch noise from ventilation fan. Third month, discovered creaking noise from the windshield. Currently, have buzzing noise from drivers door. Two of the three were eventually fixed after multiple visits to two dealerships. Other than these minor problems, it has been a great drive.

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  Am I the only one with problems! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By TW - August 12 - 8:35 pm

  I seem to be alone after reading these reviews. I have had many problems with my TSX. It has been back to the dealer more than I can count for multiple problems. The biggest problem of all being the wheels on the car constantly being out of aliment, balance, or bent. Seems the car can not handle normal driving on highways in the east. Other problems encountered: Peeling finish on wheels, rusting sill plates in doors, broken power seat, Light out on heated seated, speedometer whines when driving it all the time, mirror shakes while driving, Recall for wiring. Not sure what to do anymore! What happens when the warranty is over. Seriously thinking about trading it in.

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  New Acura Owner - 2005 Acura TSX
  By AS - August 9 - 6:12 pm

  I just bought my Acura TSX and I love it! It is the most attractive sports sedan on the road in my opinion and people actually turn to look at it.