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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  What more could you want!!! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Paul Anthony - April 2 - 2:56 pm

  This car does everything right. My previous car was a Prelude SH and although it is also a good car, it lacks 2 things, doors. The TSX added more power and a few more standard features that would cost alot more with its competitors. My other choice was a 6MT Accord V6 Sedan, and its a great car, but the TSX is a bit more appealing. I am very satisfied with this purchase and will continue to buy Honda/Acura products.

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  Excellent Value & Car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By kim, philly - March 21 - 5:33 am

  I previously had a 3.2 TL, 6 cylinder w/NAVI. Well, I didnt think I would be able to go from a 6 cylinder to a 4 cylinder. There is really not much difference at all...a few seconds to reach 60 mph. But, dont know about you, but I really dont need to get to 60 mph or above in record time. So, for a great car with lots of goodies, digital displays, luxurious interior and extremely fun to drive, its definitely worth a test run! Good luck and happy (safe) driving!

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  Ok, but look elsewhere - 2009 Acura TSX
  By eyeguy - March 20 - 2:26 pm

  I bought this car 2 weeks ago and am unhappy with the vehicle overall. The fit and finish is poor for a car of this caliber. Im noticing many inconsistencies in the paint and window molding. The felt trunk lining is already coming loose. The car lacks power. If I had to do it over again I would have sprung for an Infiniti or Lexus. I will be selling this car the first chance I get. Stay away from Acura, spend more money and get a higher quality car.

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  Best in class - 2006 Acura TSX
  By CW - March 11 - 7:53 am

  Not only the best car but also the best value in its class. Our TSX handles like a dream and loaded with options like navigation, i-pod connection, blue tooth, XM sat., all standard. Fast, smooth and refined.

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  Love the TSX - 2004 Acura TSX
  By UZ - March 3 - 10:00 am

  First new car. Previous was a maxima, which was a great car also. Like the TSX alot and is very fun to drive. Handles great, likes the corners. Highly recommended but also need to see how it handles once I get snows/rims on for the winter.

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  Fantastic car so far - 2009 Acura TSX
  By doc067 - March 2 - 9:46 am

  I just bought this car last weekend, and so far I just love it and am having a blast driving it. The exterior design is sharp and unique. The interior is luxurious and relaxing. I live in Chicago, which is not known for having the best roads in the world, but the ride is as smooth as you can expect over some very rough surfaces. Despite what some reviewers are saying, I am very pleased with the handling of the car. I also love all of the tech features, even in my base model. The drivers seat memory has been especially useful. It seems that Acura thought of absolutely everything in this car. And you know its gonna be reliable. In this price range, I dont see how you could do better.

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  The Best Overall Value In Its Class!!! - 2006 Acura TSX
  By 2006CarbonGrayTSX - February 1 - 4:53 am

  I researched for months & test drove several entry-level luxury sport sedans before deciding on the TSX. The Acura was the total package. Although it wasnt the fastest, and didnt have the best fuel economy, it was the BEST OVERALL VALUE in terms of features, reliability, performance, handling and price - at under $30K

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  Acura TSX 06 Review - 2006 Acura TSX
  By darkriftx - January 28 - 11:23 pm

  I just bought my TSX about a week ago. I have been very impressed with the internal and external build quality of the car. It has good acceleration, good handling, and is very fun to drive. The four cylinder is more than powerful enough for the size and has plenty of torque.

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  acura tsx rules in its class! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By meet joe black - January 20 - 10:00 am

  i liked that everything was standard. (i had looked into a mazda 6 s, but with options, it quickly became a $29k mazda). the tsx has a nice tight, solid feel when driving it, even over some of bostons roughest roads.

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  Another great car!! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By charlesKC0319 - January 15 - 7:06 pm

  Our ownership of Honda products started back in 1988. After three Accords later, I must say this is one of the best from Honda. Interior, fit and finish, handling, the exterior design is all there plus some more. Cant wait to drive it in the morning everyday to work.