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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  Best Entry Level Value by Far - 2011 Acura TSX
  By stlouiscarguy - September 24 - 2:55 pm

  An overall great contender in the Entry Level Luxury category that happens to be an incredible value in the segment to boot! I only recently got my new TSX but already rank it as my favorite car yet. With the six-speed manual it brings a level of engagement sorely missing from my past few vehicles that raises the driving fun factor exponentially. The 2.4L Four with this transmission is more than adequate for real world acceleration needs. The feature list is extensive when equipped with the Tech package. That combined with the interior materials quality plus fit and finish make this a Wow Car for those that see it for the first time. Most expect it to be priced much higher than it is.

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  The Worst Car ever - 2011 Acura TSX
  By tomsjay - September 15 - 8:32 pm

  Bought this car by its look and size. Its a rolling metal slab. Automobile companies get rid of the creature comfort for the so called sport . coarse engine. suspension with zero travell. i should have listened to some warnings about this. cant stand the road noise. You can see the whole car shakes around you when it hits a bump like a slab. I get car sickness. abrupt and floaty acceleration. 2010 model was little better. Heavy car with poor suspension makes it worse, Any way why write more. a piece of non human inhabitable metal junk. cant even hold a coffee. Buy a basic car to drive happy and live comfortably. Leave all the these sport sedan hype...my money is lost.

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  Happy - 2011 Acura TSX
  By jembry - September 6 - 10:16 pm

  Ive only had my TSX for a few days but really like it. I was going to buy an Accord but liked the sportier driving attitude of the Acura. My last two cars were both German and although there is no substitute for the German car feel, I quickly tired of the reliability, and maintenance. The tech package really packs a lot of extras and has a great sound system. This car really has all of the features of cars costing thousands more while getting great gas mileage.

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  4 yr. ownership review - 2007 Acura TSX
  By hborgaonkar - August 31 - 2:19 pm

  4 yrs almost up for our Artic Blue TSX. Its been a fun car to drive. gives decent mileage. All the tech goodies are still up to date in 2011. We had to replace brake pads recently due to mild brake shudder but otherwise its been reliable. This car is definitely a keeper.

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  like new (: - 2004 Acura TSX
  By afflictionx3 - August 1 - 10:37 pm

  im 17 & ive been looking for a used 2004 - 2006 acura tsx for months. finally, i came across one and when i test drove it i knew right away i found the one. it had 73k miles & in great conditon (a doctor owned it before me) got it for $12,999 . mine is silver with grey interior. cant wait to show it off, since this is my senior year & i can seem myself keeping it for a long time. if you are looking for a reliable car thats super fun and easy to drive, an acura is for you definitely. i went for the tsx instead of a TL (my mom has one) basically for the size. its smaller and funner to drive.

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  Stiff legged - 2011 Acura TSX
  By mugman1 - June 28 - 9:00 pm

  I have 1700 miles on my 2011 TSX. Overall this is a very nice car. Im coming out of a 2002 VW Passat GLX and miss the V6s low end torque, but the 4 cyl engine helps the car get out of its own way if you rev it. The suspension is a bit stiff but not in an overly uncomfortable way. Unfortunately, I cannot get comfortable in the seats. Before buying, I took it overnight and drove it over 100 miles, but after buying, I learned while driving it on a 2 hour continuous trip that the long seat cushion compresses a part of my thigh making my right leg fall asleep. Now I only look forward to ending my drive which is incredibly disappointing. Looks like my wife has a new car instead!

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  Excellent Value and Perfect Size - 2011 Acura TSX
  By kimard8 - June 28 - 8:54 pm

  The TSX is an excellent overall value in the entry level luxury sedan category. For background, previous cars were 03 328ci, 07 328, 11 M3, 08 4 Runner. The smoothest shifting manual transmission that makes it so easy to drive, even in So Cal traffic. Shifts are short and the clutch is light and soft - could use a little more feel. 2.4L engine is silky smooth with adequate power (not as torquey as the Germans) but fuel economy is awesome (450 miles to tank in mixed driving). I love the fact that the only option was Navigation. Xenon, bluetooth, sunroof, leather are all standard vs. options on Germans. Negatives: understeer (FWD), steering lacks go-kart feel of CRV.

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  Second TSX - 2011 Acura TSX
  By larryken - June 25 - 7:42 am

  Former owner of a 2008 TSX, which I had for almost 50K miles. The new model is an improvement in interior size, quieter cabin and handling. Exterior design is pleasing also. Fuel economy is the same to the former model, average mixed driving is 30 mpg and highway 33 to 36 mpg. When hard accelerating the exhaust note growls. Steering has plenty of feedback and the suspension is stiff but not teeth rattling. Im pleased with the evolutionary improvements.

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  A value leader in its class - 2011 Acura TSX
  By marcus216 - May 17 - 2:25 pm

  Just purchased 2011 TSX 4 cyl automatic. I Wanted more of a personal sedan than a family sedan and the TSX fits the bill. I love the way the car handles both curves and pot holes. It is a nice compromise in handling and smooth ride. The engine pulls nicely and it reasonably quiet. It is not going to throw your head back when bearing down on the accelerator, but it is peppy enough for almost any situation. And the gas mileage is quite good. Close to mid 30s highway. The interior is a winner, better than my neighbors IS 250. Super comfortable seats and a great stereo. And decent room in the back seat.

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  Rides a Show Stopper - 2011 Acura TSX
  By securiti - April 22 - 8:05 pm

  Ive got almost 900 miles on my TSX and Im trying to find a way to unload it. The dealer test drive was performed on smooth asphalt which didnt reveal the bone-jarring ride this car offers on anything but glass-smooth surfaces. I love everything about the car except the ride and steering, which completely lacks feedback and makes moving in a straight line a chore. Handling is exceptional (one of the best Ive driven), interior is high quality throughout and mileage is very good for a car this size. If you can get past the lack of suspension, Id highly recommend this car. However, on certain types of road, it will literally make you sick.