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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  High Quality, Economical, Great Value! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Ronabi - October 2 - 9:00 pm

  The TSX is an extraordinary value with great quality and style. It is very well equipped, including VSA and a full array of air bags. The parchment interior is well designed and very attractive. The auto transmission is smooth and responsive. Fit and finish are excellent. Two concerns: (1) the ride is good on highways and smooth streets, but rougher than desired on bumpy streets, and (2) the passenger seat which has no vertical adjustment and is too low for my wifes comfort and ease of access. (I bought a matching pillow for that seat for added height and comfort.) After 4000 miles, gas mileage is excellent, averaging 27 in mixed driving, 33 on the highway, and still improving.

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  Excellent choice in the Northeast - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Helene Morris - September 28 - 10:13 pm

  I recently traded my 5 year old VW Passat 4 Motion Wagon for a 2006 TSX with Navigation. Considering the impetuous Connecticut winters, I was apprehensive about swapping all wheel drive for front wheel drive; no worries here. On New Years Eve we were off to a night of entertainment at Mohegan Sun with four inches of snow between us and the casino. The car managed the slippery conditions and just as we thought we were free and clear another sedan in front of us spun out and landed against the guard rail. The TSX VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) performed as designed as we manuvered our way around the accident. We did not slide or lose traction once. I no longer worry.

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  Fun to drive - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Kevin - September 22 - 11:16 am

  Ive only had the car for a week, but Im running out of excuses to run to the store. This car is a thrill to drive.It has nimble handling and quick responsiveness of a sports car with the comfort of a luxury car.

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  A true sports sedan - 2005 Acura TSX
  By tom - September 22 - 2:06 am

  This car puts you in harmony with the road. Unlike to focus of many cars that seek to place the driver and the road as far apart as possible the TSX lets you decide. You feel the road; the twists and turns, the need to be alert to conditions, and the fun driving can be. I am an older driver who remembers the sports cars of his youth and can still enjoy the road.

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  Jays TSX - 2004 Acura TSX
  By Jason Tressler - September 13 - 10:00 am

  I almost want to keep this jewel of a deal a secret because I look like Im driving 50K car!!!! I have so many heads turn at this car, but most dont know they may be able to afford one. I did not even plan on buying a new car, but when isaw this and drove it I had to have it... Best car I have ever owned. If you get into one of these cars you wont want to get back out.

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  Great value - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Harry - September 9 - 11:53 am

  The TSX is a very good buy for the money and fun to drive. Everything you could want is standard.

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  Happy Buyer! - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Allen - August 23 - 7:53 pm

  Luckily, my 12mpg Infiniti QX56 has been traded and this 2009 Acura TSX is the replacement! I just wish I bought one of these before. Great handling! Smooth and quiet! Exceptional automobile! A good size trunk will work for weekend getaways with my wife and 2 girls! The design is "slick and sassy"! Ive owned a 95 Lexus ES300 and a 2002 Volvo S80. The Acura TSX beats both, in every way, by a mile!

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  Impressed on TSX - 2005 Acura TSX
  By mrjohn - August 14 - 7:46 pm

  The wife and I stopped by our Acura dealer, mainly because I wanted to test drive a TL. But after driving the TSX, I was convinced the TSX was a much better value, as I didnt feel the TL delivered enough for the extra $6,000. Bottom line: the TSXs 4 cyl really surprised me. It can ride somewhat rough on bumpy surfaces, but thats to be expected with sporty cars. About 30 mpg on highway, which is decent.

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  Switched from Muscle Car - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Gmdavis5 - August 14 - 4:00 am

  Switched from a 2005 Cadillac CTS-V with 400hp to the new 2009 Acura TSX due to increasing gas prices. The Acura is half the price and exceeds the Cadi performance.

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  BANG FOR A BUCK!!! - 2004 Acura TSX
  By TSX LOVER - August 2 - 10:00 am

  This car has some of the most amazing features at a price that is absolutly astounding! The navigation system is very easy to use and reliable. The sound system in this car is phenominal, and I just couldnt be happier with this car!