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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Needs Some Improvement - 2004 Acura TSX
By Drew - January 13 - 6:16 pmDont get me wrong, the Acura TSX is a great car. Both the exterior and interior styling are fantastic, and the quality of the materials is wonderful. It is a very refined vehicle, with nimble handling and beautiful detailing.
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TSX... Awsome Car!! - 2005 Acura TSX
By Josh - January 10 - 3:00 amI just purchased the TSX and I love it. Its stylish, fun, and awsome to drive. Even though its a V4, it has great power. I love this car and i would suggest getting it. I looked at the Volvo S40 also, and for the money the TSX is a better value!
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Excellent quality car for the money - 2004 Acura TSX
By LKS - January 6 - 10:35 pmLove this solid built car. Its fun to drive, handling is excellent and very comfortable. The sound system is awesome. Heated seats are great for New England weather.
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Great Sporty Sedan - 2004 Acura TSX
By Stephen - December 29 - 5:13 pmI have had the car for almost a year and I have had no problems. The handling is smooth and youll love the precision of the 6 spd manual shifter. The engine pulls nicely off the line given it is a four cylinder but it is happiest freely reving from 3000 to 7100 rpms. Standard features include everything you can think of except the navigation system. Fit and finish are exceptional. Adequate room to haul people or things. As a point of reference, I owned a 4dr 94 Acura Integra GSR followed by a 4dr 99 323i BMW. I believe that this is a great buy for a sport sedan even when compare to the venerable 3 series BMWs.
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Love the TSX - 2004 Acura TSX
By Bryan - December 29 - 9:40 amI was in the market for a new car. I looked at all the Hondas because before I owned my TSX, I had a Honda Accord. I loved the Accord, but I found that the TSX is a much more smoother, funner, and stylish ride. In one hour I went from almost purchasing a new two door Accord to buying the TSX. The cost of the TSX versus the cost of the TL was the decision for me. I could have all the fun, style, and luxury of an Acura, but still feel young and sporty with the TSX. I would definitely reccomend the TSX for anyone who loves to have fun and look good while doing it.
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HondaMans Review - 2004 Acura TSX
By HondaManTSX - December 28 - 11:51 pmIm lovin this car! It is a great Honda/Acura and you cant go wrong there in my book.
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I Love This Car! - 2009 Acura TSX
By Face - December 23 - 6:56 pmIf you look outside of Edmunds there are so many negative reviews on this car, but honestly I have no idea what these people are talking about. You get so much technology and bells in whistles for the price compared to VW, Audi, BMW or even Lexus. I looked at them all and even though all those cars were good in their own right I felt the Acura was the one to get. I am 62, 250 and find the seats very comfortable and the car a pleasure to drive. This car has the perfect blend of great gas mileage without having the usual sacrifice of an under powered engine.
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I love my TSX - 2004 Acura TSX
By Kona_resident - December 22 - 5:29 amFirst one out of the Santa Monica Acura dealership!!! I opted for the TSX after owning 3 Integras and after my 92 GSR was stolen... I was looking for more comfort, less noise, automatic tranny because I wanted to cnange my driving style from agressive to relaxed... well the 5A TSX did it but without loosing that sporty feel... I love the hi-revving big 4, the sportshift, the handling, the nice style... Even after almost 2 years, I frequently witness other driver stalk me trying to figure out what this nice car is!!!
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Interesting piece of work - 2004 Acura TSX
By Black Jedi Knight - December 21 - 10:00 amOwned an 03 Accord V-6 prior to the TSX. The TSX looks better and out handles the Accord. I have taken corners in the TSX that I would normally back off of in the Accord. When compared to the BMW 3 series (which always happens) the TSX is a better value. It comes with more standard features and if you pay attention the BMW has a six cylinder engine that puts out 186hp. Definately not worth the extra $5-$7k. For a four cylinder the engine has provided excellent power when going uphill than expected. The manual is the way to go. The power spectrum is very broad from 3000 RPMs to redline. Step on it once in awhile, youll enjoy it.
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DONT BUY THIS RATTLE BOX - 2004 Acura TSX
By Wayne Schlegel - December 19 - 1:33 amI cannot tell you how many times this vehicle has been back to the dealership for service! Noises, rattles, loose parts, defective sedt bracket 2x. The door trim noises, creeks and vibrations/rattles indicate a design defect in this TSX deign. Seven times and they still cannot correct the problems! Seats wearing prematurely as well. Japanese quality is truly SLIPPING. Not sure its worth the money. Shame on Honda/Acura for such poor quality.
