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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no more Fords - 2005 Acura TSX
By Don Fuller - August 9 - 1:53 amGreat handling and power, faster than my "SHO", 23 mpg in town driving and 33 on the road. Global navigation is great for my real estate business. The suspension is stiffer than my Lexus but that is expected.
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Domestics? Who needs domestics? - 2005 Acura TSX
By Mark - August 5 - 5:48 pmInitially, I was looking to stay under $25k with my new vehicle purchase. I commute 95 miles roundtrip daily and wanted something reliable and fun to drive. One look at the TSX and my price concerns suddenly didnt matter. Then, I got behind the wheel. The moment I sat in the TSX, I was sold. It just fit! The seats are well bolstered and very comfortable, the instrument panel is laid out well, and the six speed is just sweet! After a test drive, I knew that I wanted one. After some research, I decided to go ahead. I love this car! Im at 5,500 miles and love it more than the day I brought it home!
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Nice car, but a four cylinder - 2005 Acura TSX
By CFS - August 3 - 10:36 pmI was talked into buying this car by my brother - he wanted me to have something "reliable". I have no real complaints about it other than the headlights - they have to be turned on and off and the halogen headlights have other drivers constantly flashing their lights at me - thinking I have my brights on when I dont. Also, you cant open the windows when its raining because the water comes in. Its quick for a four cylinder but too slow for my taste (I drove Pontiac Bonnevilles for years and am now wishing I had purchased another one.) Ill be trading it in after two years for a faster car. I got better gas mileage on the highway with my Bonnevilles than I do with this vehicle.
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Great car for the money - 2004 Acura TSX
By Kerri - August 1 - 10:46 pmI just bought a 2004 TSX. When I was looking at the car I noticed it had high miles but figured since it is a Acura it would be fine. I had an Integra before my TSX and it had 215,000 miles on it and I was very satisfied with my Integra. I love the look of the TSX and of course the 6 speed trans. The handling is great! My sister has a 2004 Accord and I like my TSX better as it seems more sporty and more room in the inside. The Bose stereo with 6 disc changer sounds great also.
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works for me - 2005 Acura TSX
By Greg - July 31 - 6:12 pmI just bought this car in may and I look forward to driving it all the time. It handles great and you comfortable while doing it. The navi is awesome and never has any problems. It is not a very common car I see on the road and thats why I got it unlike the audi a4 and the bmw 3 series which is every other car I see. I suggest this car to anyone who is interested.
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Tons of features - 2006 Acura TSX
By TSXnOPKS - July 31 - 6:10 pmI like the fact that this car comes with everything the TL has now. The DVD audio is the only exception but thats trivial. So far, if I cant live without the Homelink system to open my security gate and garage door. I truly appreciate the heated seats for my sore back. The navigation is fantastic. I dont know how I ever survived without HID headlights! I had a chance to borrow a Samsung A940 Bluetooth phone to try out the pairing. It worked great even though the phone is not supported. My only concerns right now are the squeaking creaking front seats which I heard is some sort of seat rail issue.
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Hondas best - 2005 Acura TSX
By tsx - July 31 - 12:30 amFun to drive and plenty of second looks when youre out for a spin. Excellent fuel mileage and gets every bit of the mileage on the sticker. 200 horsepower in a four, wow does it ever handle like a very good sports car. Worth every bit of the sticker price. WHAT A CAR!
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Love my new TSX - 2005 Acura TSX
By Lesley - July 30 - 3:34 pmBetween the stick shift, the Nav system, and the XM Satellite radio, this car satisfies everything I wanted in a new car. Did my research and it paid off!
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HODTSX - 2005 Acura TSX
By HarryD - July 30 - 2:23 pmIncredible features for the price. Aggressive styling. Roomy in front. Negative feature is location of Drivers power door lock button - should be by door handle.
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After 20,000 Miles... - 2004 Acura TSX
By Nick T. - July 25 - 11:27 pmMy experience with this vehicle has been nothing by positive. I have put a lot more miles per year than I had anticipated around the city, but the car still lives up to its reliability, and after 20,000 miles, there are no rattles, no odd sounds, and no reason to take it into the shop other than general oil changes/maintenances.
