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:

• 

  Great Value in the sport sedan group - 2004 Acura TSX
  By JoeD - December 17 - 5:01 pm

  The features on this car are amazing for the price. Stability control, heated seats, 17 inch alloy wheels, high safety ratings, and smart rearview mirror for starters. The only disappointment has been a creaking sound on the passenger side dashboard/ windshield area when I go over even small bumps on the road. The car is very fun to drive in the city or on the highway. The understated exterior design belies the specd out interior and performance.

• 

  Unassuming excellence - 2004 Acura TSX
  By jbl - December 15 - 10:00 am

  After a few agonizing months and countless test drives on various used and new BMW 3 series, Audi A4, Jaguar X Type, Lexus IS 300, Volvo, took the plunge and got myself a TSX. In the final weeks I agonized between the TSX and the A4 and finally settled for the TSX. It is by far the best overall value as well as top on reliability. A4 has a more recognizable exterior styling and perhaps the quatro is an advantage, even though not so much if you consider the decent VSA in the TSX. At anything else the TSX is just the better choice. Not to mention the price for similar equipment. Just go to an Acura dealer and see how many used A4s youll find vs. how many Acuras at an Audi dealer.

• 

  Cynic to believer in 300 miles - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Nate - December 13 - 8:50 pm

  Bought myself a TSX for my birthday, upgrading from a 98 VW that had lost its lust for life (as well as my love of driving), and I am astounded at how much I love to drive this car, and how others react to it. Its powerful, responsive, comfortable, efficient and for the price to what you get, its second to none. I am still getting used to parking it in a small parking lot, but the majority of that is new car jitters. Everything thats important is top-notch, some of the small things, I would have changed. Others have mentioned the screen glare, bluetooth mic is ho-hum and far away, elbow rests take some effort, lower grille is weak plastic and deforms in weeks, and radio "forgets" settings.

• 

  Best Choice I Could Have Made - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Kevin English - December 13 - 8:44 pm

  I was searching for a new vehicle, but had several on my list. For instance the 2004 Nissan Maxima and the Infinit G35. I was very impressed with the Maxima, however, the sale person was not aggressive enough to try and work something out with me seeing how I was planning to make a down payment of half of the cost of the car. However, I went to the Acura dealer and was there 6 hours before I was able to drive off with my new 2004 TSX. The sales person and finance manager made sure that I got what I wanted at the price I wanted. I love the stylishness of the TSX even though it was a lot smaller than the Maxima. I get a lot of compliments and stares while driving this car.

• 

  6 Speeds of Bliss - 2004 Acura TSX
  By cmsj5h - December 9 - 11:12 pm

  Traded in an auto 4 cly Honda Accord for something more fun to drive. This car is unbelivable, while driving through the 6 speeds I have a constant smile on my face. If you are looking for a reliable car that gets pretty good fuel economy and is fun to drive, look no more. Also looked at VW Jetta GLI 1.8T, Subaru WRX, and Honda Accord V6 6 speed, this was my favorite. I was able to have everything in one great looking car.....4 doors, decent fuel economy, 6 speed, great interior and exterior....and fun to drive. If you are looking to buy a TSX, do yourself a favor and test drive the 6 speed, you wont be dissapointed.

• 

  Little TL - 2004 Acura TSX
  By dj1billion - December 7 - 5:57 pm

  Great car, if you desire something good on gas,strong performer,great looking and you can get it fully loaded inc. Nav. all for under $30,000. WOW!!!!Now thats BANG for your Buck!!!

• 

  TSX ABOVE AND BEYOND THE COMP FOR LESS $ - 2004 Acura TSX
  By TroutiousMaximous - December 7 - 1:05 pm

  I bought my TSX back in August and by far it is the most fun I have had driving a car. I have owned BMWs and test drove the rest, and the TSX performance/standard options/and fuel economy blow the comp away. Waiting to see if there are any upgrades (chip wise) for the engine, however it is still got the awesome pep for a 4 cyl. The TSX turns heads without a doubt, most compliments I have ever received about a car, and people do not believe me when I tell them how much it costs.

• 

  Great Car- - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Margie - December 1 - 9:00 am

  I just returned my 05 Jeep Liberty and leased the 09 TSX about 2 days ago. So far I love it. Nice change from the SUV. Luxury without putting you in the poor house.

• 

  Amazing car, great value - 2004 Acura TSX
  By divenow - November 29 - 6:03 pm

  I just love this car - 1000+ miles on it already and no real problems. The styling is crisp and clean, and fit/finish is for the most part outstanding (there is a dashboard rattle/creak which the dealer needs to look at). Seats are well padded, the sound system is beautiful. Steering is nice and taut. Low-end torque isnt that strong, but past 4k rpm starts to make itself felt. There is a bit more road noise than Id like. Love the 50- series low profile tires, but wish they had better stock tires than the Michelins. But the bottom line is that for the same options, a BMW 325i or an Audi A4 1.8T would cost ~$3k more. THATs what sold me.

• 

  I love this car - exceeds expectations!! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Jonathan Mozenter - November 26 - 7:58 pm

  I love my TSX. It handles like a dream and is very fast. It looks cool inside and out. I love all the gadgets (sunroof, heated seats, unreal stereo). So much fun to drive. Highly recommend. Cheap considering what you get.