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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  Buy the Accord - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Scott S. - April 1 - 11:23 pm

  I was preparing to replace my Honda Accord and wanted to move up. The TSX doesnt feel any smaller, but the backseat is a full 2-inches smaller for legroom. While 2 inches may not seem like much, it matters when you have children. Then theres the matter of power. This car does not zip. The Accord V6 has 40 more HP, and gets the same gas mileage. If youre going to compare - the Accord V6 with Nav is more comparable to the TL, not the TSX. The TSX feels more like a spiffy Civic.

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  2004 TSX - 2004 Acura TSX
  By moman - March 28 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased a new TSX and have already 400 miles on it.it is so much fun to drive specially with the new semi manual shift. the gas milage is great specially after gettin rid of a gas guzzler that did 12 milesper gallon. interior is neat wish it was a little roomier but still great.pick up speed is really good for a 200HP engine. in short,you will love the gas milage and the pick up speed and neat design.

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  Just torn... - 2005 Acura TSX
  By MB2005 - March 13 - 4:00 am

  It has been almost a year since I got my TSX, and I love it. Navi is great, but fuel economy is not what it is hyped to be. Exterior design is pretty blah and for the price i expect more HP! overall it has been amazingly reliable and a great car. The delay before being able to use navi, radio, or AC is pretty annoying especially when Im in a hurry.. however the Navi has never failed me. As fun as it is to frive and as reliable and affordable (concidering all the ammenities) it could use some improvement...

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  TSX- what a find - 2005 Acura TSX
  By cheryl - March 10 - 12:13 pm

  I first saw the TSX at an auto show in Fort Worth. I knew right away its what I was looking for. The interior is like a luxury car, the Nav system is wonderful. This is a car that will knock your socks off!!

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  Volvo patron - 2009 Acura TSX
  By rcsdvm - February 26 - 4:00 pm

  I have had nothing but Volvos since 1982. TSX compared favorably with S80, 328, IS 250, CTS and was cheaper. MPG has been great - 36+ hwy and 30+overall. I still havent mastered the tech pack. That lady doesnt understand KYeze. I have one negative: Steering is very sensitive and feels "notchy" in turns and there is sometimes a distinct steering torque with acceleration in turns. I have not investigated with dealer. One more thing: dont break a mirror - $525. So far dealer experience has been very positive.

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  Performance/Durability - 2009 Acura TSX
  By bwmusicboy - February 24 - 4:33 am

  I am now on my 2nd TSX. I leased my first one in 05 and just recently proceeded to my second. At first I was a little unhappy due to it being somewhat bigger. After having it one week I was already in favor of the size. It is amazing how much smoother the ride is due it being a little wider and longer. I already knew it was built off the previous TL frame. When I drove it off the lot it had 280 miles on it. It now has 1200 on it and Ive only filled the tank twice. I purchased the manual this time and the gas mileage is amazing! They say the auto. is to get better mileage, I dont think so! I got 450 on my first tank, 450 on my second! Go buy it! Seriously!

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  EXCELLENT - 2004 Acura TSX
  By ERIN - February 14 - 10:00 am

  THE ACURA TSX IS THE FIRST NEW CAR IVE OWNED. PRIOR TO THE TSX I HAD A 1996 HONDA CIVIC. INITIALLY I WAS SAD TO LEAVE MY CIVIC SINCE IT HAD BEEN SUCH A RELIABLE CAR, BUT AS SOON AS I DROVE THE TSX I KNEW IT WAS THE PERFECT CAR. IN THE PAST FEW MONTHS IVE PUT THE TSX THROUGH SOME ROUGH TIMES AND IT HAS PROVED ITS STURDINESS AND QUALITY. IT IS A RELIABLE CAR WITH A LUXURY FEEL.

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  Best bang for the buck - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Justin - February 4 - 2:03 am

  Looked at A4, A3, Jetta 2.0T and IS250. This is the best one overall and best value. Oh, and yeah, do get the navigation.

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  Awesome - 2005 Acura TSX
  By mar - February 1 - 8:53 pm

  did a lot of research-best car for the money i spent-i was a little hesitant to spend 28 grand on something that depreciates so quickly, but its well worth it.

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  Great Car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By billy - January 21 - 3:40 am

  Just bought one for my wife. At 64" 200 lbs I fit in it fine. Was considering the TL for the extra room but the wife fell in love with the TSX. I wish I would have bought an Acura a long time ago. So far stop and go city 27 mpg and 33 on highway with the dummy meter. Would def buy again.