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 car I ever owned - 2004 Acura TSX
  By ssweet - July 22 - 10:00 am

  It has been a pleasure to drive this car, all around

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  Hard to improve on - 2004 Acura TSX
  By TSXaholic - July 22 - 10:00 am

  i went from a 2003 Accord EX 4cyl. The performance is similar but the TSX just handles like a dream. They need to graft some of this on the Accord. My only suggestion would be to consider a taller 5th gear for high speed cruise control modulated highway commutes; I have averaged 30 MPG vs 34 in the Accord.

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  Good Value and Ride - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Joey - July 3 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car for about a week and so far its great. Handling and power are great for a 4 cylinder car. My last car was a V6 Honda accord and it performs as well if not better.

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  Say no to BMW 3, say yes to TSX - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Hgood - June 30 - 12:23 pm

  To get all that you get with a TSX with navigation, youd have to pay at least 10-12 grand more for the same on the BMW 3 series, which is a less reliable car, with costlier repairs. The TSX has buttery smooth handling, an interior that feels more luxurious than the 3 series, and it has ACURA bulletproof reliability. So if youre willing to overpay, have more repairs just so you can show of your little BMW badge, go waste more than ten grand more and get the 3 series. The navi on the BMW is inferior to that on the TSX to boot. THE TSX IS REALLY FUN TO RIDE, IS REAL ZIPPY, and is a class car with an engine just about the same size as the 3 series. Smart people buy the TSX not the BMW.

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  The Perfect Sports Sedan - 2004 Acura TSX
  By pete_427 - June 25 - 5:48 am

  Ive had my TSX for 9 months and its exactly what I expected from Acura. I drove the A4 and 325i and this is by far a more fun-to-drive car and far less ubiquitous on the road. The power band is broad and smooth, the tranny is slick, it handles predictably and precisely, the stereo sounds great and it looks terrific inside and out. While some cars have more horsepower using turbos or V6s (both longevity nightmares), I have plenty of that in my 427 Chevy. What I wanted was silky smooth refinement and athletic fun-to-drive (with a little snob appeal, I admit) and that, my friend, is the Acura TSX.

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  LOVE THIS CAR - 2004 Acura TSX
  By marc - June 14 - 9:11 pm

  This is probably the best car I ever owned. I previously owned a 1997 Saab 900 and a 2001 Saab 9-5. Despite the fact that I was very satisfied with Saabs, I was extremely disappointed with the reliability. This car has been great so far. I already put 8000 miles on it in 2 months and I want to drive it everyday, which is the reason for the high mileage.

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  Two years, happy still - 2004 Acura TSX
  By crustygates - June 11 - 2:13 am

  This is a solid, understated car which is a little lighter than the competition. It shows. iVtec motor and 6 spd produces excellent fuel economy, smoothness and reliability. The suspension seems too soft but with its stability system, does a great job when pushing the car. The 2004 stereo is a disappointment, a few door rattles which come and go, well thats about it. I normally replace my car every 4- 5 years but may keep this one for 10.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2004 Acura TSX
  By dirk3111 - June 10 - 10:00 am

  Great Handling, and plenty of get up and go. Some of the best Fit & Finish Ive ever seen.

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  Best FWD Car on the Market! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Acura Fan - June 6 - 10:10 am

  This car is a blast to drive. It handles like a go-cart, has ample power, and looks good doing all of it. Throw in the standard XM Satellite Radio, heated leather seats, 360 watt stereo and all power, and you got a heck of a little sports sedan! You owe yourself a drive if you are looking at a C Class or 3 Series. Save yourself some money!

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  AWESOME CAR!! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Teeko - June 4 - 11:23 am

  Not much to say other than this is an awesome car. From the perforated leather heated seats to the power moonroof, you cant find much more luxury for what youre paying. The cars handling is amazing. You definitely will not be disappointed with this car.