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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  Bought the TSX very used - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Sheila Thomas - June 16 - 9:54 pm

  During a recent snowstorm which rendered the roads sheet ice, my 6 speed manual with VSA was the only car making it up the icy hills. For a 10 year old car, it performed like a champ. Ive driven mostly Honda and Acura products and will continue to buy them but am very sad to see that manual transmissions are becoming harder to find in new Acuras. Sadly I may have to get an x drive 3 series BMW for my next car.

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  Runs Like a Champ - 2006 Acura TSX
  By John Stone - June 5 - 1:56 am

  I have had this car for a while now and I love it. I have had no problems with it. It is luxurious, gets great gas mileage, and is quick.

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  I think I got a Lemon - 2004 Acura TSX
  By bennero - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Bought this car in Feb/04 and have driven a loaner for 3 weeks and 2 rentals as this car cannot stay out of the shop. Going back in for new seatbelts that the dealer got oil all over. New rim as the coating was coming off. Rear welds came apart above the struts, Im on my third console from all the squeaks and rattles. Does not compare to the excitement of the BMW 325i which I sold to get this automatic. Ratings were good, I think I just got one that was made Friday afternoon.

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  Good Upscale Accord - 2006 Acura TSX
  By gary41 - May 21 - 7:26 pm

  Car is a good package for a sub-$30K sport sedan with tons of accessories. Nice not having to buy all the options you do with BMW, et al.

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  Great Buy, Great Decision - 2009 Acura TSX
  By stones3131 - May 10 - 11:30 pm

  Just picked my new 09 TSX (Polished Metal/Black) on Monday. So far its been nothing but fun fun fun to drive. The Bluetooth is an amazing feature. The base model comes pretty loaded up with the exception of a CD changer and the navigation system, but really, why spend the extra $3,000 or so on the navigation system when you can just go to Wal-Mart or Target and buy one for around $200? Anyway, Im glad I got the car. It was between this or the 08 Accord and even though the dashboards are very similar, the exterior design was the deciding factor for me. It looks great!

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  One of the Best - 2009 Acura TSX
  By acuralover4life - April 22 - 10:06 pm

  We absolutely love our TSX. So far we have had no problems out of it. We decided to just get the Base w/auto model. Mainly because we didnt want to spend an extra $3,000 on a navigation system where as you can get a portable one for $200 at many stores. We have had it for a little over 3 months and it already has over 3,000 miles on it. One thing I do wish is that we would have waited and looked at the new TLs. Another thing is that I wish it would have is an inside fuel door release instead of having to have to push it on the outside.

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  comutter dream - 2004 Acura TSX
  By konna - April 20 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy my tsx,my friends say it looks like a Japanise BMW I say its a great car for the price. first car i have ever had that has it all

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  Relibility and Workmanship - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Japan - April 20 - 10:00 am

  This car is a pure 100% born in Japan production vehicle. No Mix with another country on parts and labor. I can tell the difference from the workmanship and quality of the parts Acura had used in this vehicle. Remember, you get what you pay for!.

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  Acura TSX - So Far A Great Car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By J Stone - April 15 - 7:06 am

  I purchased the Acura TSX after owning similar, higher end American cars and test driving a host of similar cars (e.g., Volvo $40 was the closest runner up). I first considered the TSX based on the reviews, but also because it was both fun to drive and had most of the features that I wanted. In particular, it handles much more like an European car than a Honda, which is not surprising since it is marketed extensively in Europe. Moreover, as at least one professional review says, it straddles the luxury, sporty and family car categories well. After a few weeks of ownership, I must say I am very pleased. The car handles well, even in bad weather. I even get compliments on the looks.

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  love my TSX - 2005 Acura TSX
  By t. locher - April 7 - 2:10 pm

  I love my TSX it rides great has a lot of power, looks sharp, nice and roomy and a big trunk , love the dash board lighting up white very classy, the radio sounds crisp and clear, handles nice and tight changing lanes, perfect size car, seats are soft and roomy best car I ever had , what a quiet ride