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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  my car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Don - August 4 - 5:03 pm

  not as smooth on the road as my es330 but much more fun to drive. styling is great except for the "accord tail lites. they need their own distinctive tail lites.

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  06 TSX Rocks! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By madtown acura - August 2 - 5:30 pm

  I love my new TSX... just picked my new Carbon Grey Pearl w/ ebony leather. I opted for the 6sp transmission with the GPS. I was a little leary spending the extra $2k for the GPS but its well worth it! It works so well and is very helpful. After driving the 05, I can say that the 06 is a better car. Fit and finish seems better and the little bump in horsepower is well received. In short - I love my new car and highly recommend aquiring one should you have the means.

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  Lots of car for the money! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Jeff - July 27 - 3:43 am

  Ive had the car for just over 2 months and love it. ( Pearl White , Ebony) Great color and people stop me in parking lots to ask about the car! Got rid of a 2005.5 A4. Love the fit and finish, got 35 mpg on the highway - WOW ! Great style, interior, xenons , loaded -- a lot of car for the $$. Do not miss Audi or the higher payments!!

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  Where is the display - 2009 Acura TSX
  By J.R. - July 20 - 3:40 pm

  I gave my 2000 VW New Beetle to my granddaughter It was a great car, fun to drive and with a turbo, more than enough power. My new TSX w/o nav, is not as much fun. But, my main gripe is that when it is sunny, I cannot see the center display. Acura need to brighten the display or produce it in a color.

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  Excellent car! Could not be happier! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Chris - July 20 - 5:43 am

  This car comes loaded with features already, moonroof, heated seats, dual climate control, xenon lights, 6-disc in dash, great audio, no need to upgrade unless you want navigation. The price is great. The power is surprising for a 4 cylinder. It has plenty of kick when you hit the pedal. The car is solid, handles just fine, is great in the snow, and has great safety features. The optional navigation system is easy to use, has a lot of features, including voice activation. The fuel economy is great. Premium Fuel. Navigation system has a trip computer to give you information on fuel usage, mileage left, and averages. Overall great car, very fun to drive, well built, and good resale value.

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  miguelito - 2005 Acura TSX
  By miguelito - July 17 - 9:43 am

  Driving the tsx is very nice, real quiet, great sound system and it handles corners like a sports car or better.

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  Hondas best sedan! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By fedlawman - July 15 - 10:00 am

  People who say that the TSX is "just a re-badged Accord" or complain that it only has a 4 cylinder engine just dont "get" this car. The TSX is the reincarnation of the much loved (and missed) Prelude, only today its got 4 doors, gorgeous interior appointments, and refinement never dreamed of in the former coupes glory days. The TSX engine zings to redline smotth precision, and the 6-speed manual just snicks from gear to gear like its coated with teflon. The nimble chasis is predictable and fun to play with, yet understeer at the limit is typical FWD Honda. If want want an Audi cockpit, Lexus refinement, and Prelude reflexes, this is it.

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  Hands down beats comparable sedans - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Jeff-Ohio - July 10 - 1:23 pm

  When compared against Volvo S40/S60, Passat, A4, BMW, Saab S3, and Pontiac G6, all with comparable $25-$30k price tag, HP and Mileage, the TSX is superior in nearly every category. Excellent interior and exterior fit/finish. Clean/crisp dash layout and display options. Am getting 34-37 mpg highway, and 22-26 in town. Love the way the car handles and I am sure it will last forever, given my track record with hondas over the last 15 years. Typical honda low RPM performance - need to get it up over 3-3.5k rpm before it starts pushing you in your seat. I am very pleased with the car, and would recommend to all my friends! One of the best kept secrets in its class.

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  Love my PWP TSX - 2005 Acura TSX
  By TSX Owner - June 20 - 4:40 pm

  Only bad thing I can say about the car is that it rides a bit rough. On the highway it floats but in town you feel every bump...that is the sports sedan in the car. Overall everything in this car is top quality and looks so nice. I get about 25MPG with premium fuel. Wish it did a little better there.

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  A pleasant surprise - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Dee - June 20 - 4:13 pm

  I have had this wonderful ride for 8 days now and always look forward in driving the TSX. The leather seats are comfy, dash board and radio controls easy to use (especially for a non- computer lover like myself), fit & finish tasteful, and a decent trunk size. We are a family of 4 and this is a nice size for us. Not too small, not too large of a car. Weve had an Olds, Ford, Plymouth, Mitsubishi, Pontiac, and currently have a newer Chevy. This car beats them all no doubt - stylish, luxurious and sporty. Ive had people say they love my Arctic Blue color, which is a color thats different. Manual hard to find but am happy with the automatic. Not many TSXs around, makes me stand out!!