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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  Whats not to like??? - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Walt - July 21 - 7:36 am

  I just traded my 2001 Acura 3.2 CL in for a TSX. The TSX has a smaller engine, but is almost as peppy as the V-6 powered CL. I took a model with the unwanted Navigation system because it was on the lot and was the color I wanted. After two lengthy trips in the car Ive been converted - the nav system is indeed useful. To recycle an old quote, the car tracks like "a cannonball dropped down a chimney" - very responsive to steering and pedal input. It has a nice controlled ride without being harsh. The interior is quite comfortable and all of the cars controls and switches are easily reachable and ergonomically well thought out. Styling is a matter of personal opinion, but I like it.

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  TSX Praise - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Dean Lester - July 20 - 11:33 am

  After driving a 1989 Acura Integra for 187000 miles, I figured there wasnt any problem of choice for a new car. The TSX is the rebirth of why I bought my first Acura ... style, handling, which is a top priority of mine as I used to rally a 1965 Ford Cortina. The TSX is a lot more refined then my Integra was. Quieter, faster, smoother ride, good acceleration when needed and a lot more creature comforts starting with the comfortable heated seats, the lumbar support, more headroom, more legroom and a host of standard items that are optional on other makes.I am a professional photographer and being able to put the rear seats down gives me plenty of space for equipment.

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  Buyers remorse - whats that? - 2005 Acura TSX
  By JoeShmoe - July 18 - 9:26 am

  I wanted a nicely equipped, fun to drive car that wouldnt break 35 grand level. I had a closer look and test drove A4 1.8T, 325i and TSX. Audi and BMW are of course very nice cars but once you start throwing in options (leather seats, premium stereo, xenon lights, etc) it is very difficult to stay beyond the price level I wanted. The TSX is a whole different story - it drives as nice as the other cars, it comes fully loaded and what really sold me is reliability - being a very busy professional I have no time to waste at repair shops. I never double guessed my decision - the car looks great, drives like a dream and is a real head turner. Get one, you wont regret.

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  Even Better Than the Last TSX! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Rick - July 15 - 12:10 pm

  The new 2009 TSX is great. The car has paddle shifters, iPod USB download up to 2000 song directly to the car. It has weather forecasts. I love the way it drives and the way it looks. Its a winner!

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  great choice - 2004 Acura TSX
  By convert - June 27 - 10:00 am

  this car is better looking, better handling, better equipped, safer, more fuel efficient, more comfortable,faster,and the sticker was $7000 less than my 190 E2.6. Im hoping this car lasts as long---15 years.

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  Luxury with sport - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Mark - June 6 - 4:00 am

  I have had the car 1 month, 2K miles and averaged 33.5 mpg. I cant imagine not having the tech package. The stereo cannot be matched - crisp, clean, strong and the nav is very easy to use. The 6 speed manual is the soul of the car, the steering did take some getting used to, and became more predictive over time. It is not a point and shoot car like the Mazda3 S that I had, but it handles quite nicely with a much more refined feel. The engine is very sweet in the upper RPM, I have not found that I wished for more power, especially at $4/gallon. The seats are extremely comfortable.

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  After 2 Months & 2000 Miles - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Catman1953 - June 5 - 5:16 pm

  Test drove both the TL & TSX and the TSX is a lot more fun to drive so I bought it. Love the interior and overall exterior, unsure about the huge grill. Im just hoping that it isnt a rock magnet. Performance and mpg are fine for my taste. My complaints are minor ones: way too much glare from the navi window, no inside gas door release, I can see it freezing it up in the winter, and when using the bluetooth its annoying to say dial or call a number and then having to confirm what you want to dial. Great handling car in the city and definitely comfortable. Simply love the car.

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  TSX... One Year Later - 2004 Acura TSX
  By hip - May 15 - 10:00 am

  After one year with my TSX 6-speed, Navi any regrets of waiting for the TL have long evaporated. Typical of all our Hondas, experience has been positive overall, this leaves only nitpicking. The seats in the TSX are truly outstanding even after long 7-8 hour drives. As most reviews state, driving comfort, handling, quality, ergonomics are first rate. Biggest complaint concerns outward visability due to stringent side impact protection. Higher belt line than previous generation Hondas, make it difficult to judge proximity to curbs on passenger side)especially when parking. Otherwise no real issues.

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  All I wanted and More! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Chizzy - May 15 - 10:00 am

  After reading every review for the TSX i could find, and considering other vehicles...BMW 3 infiniti G25 subaru legacy GT and Honda accord ex V6... this car has the best of all i tested with few comprimises. Ive driven this car on the freeways of phoenix and the twisty roads of northern arizona. This car has two personalities. Quiet and smooth on the commutes, loud and confident on the weekends. The interior is absolutely beautiful. If youre considering a V6 accord, DO NOT BUY IT until you test drive a TSX. There is a substantial difference in style and performance with similar prices. Honda could get away with selling the TSX for more.

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  ya ya - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Wilson420420 - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Awesome car and awesome to drive.....wish my mom got the manual. Its just not the same with that triptronics stuff