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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  TSX 09 - 2009 Acura TSX
  By Tom - May 12 - 7:46 am

  Have had it almost 2 months with 2000+ miles and extremely pleased. Drove both 08 and 09 TSXs and 09 is vast improvement. Interior feels much larger, probably due to dash design. Im 64" and fit perfectly. Avg city driving 24.2 mpg and highway 36.1 (cruise set at 71 mph). Very comfortable on long trip of 300+ miles. Really appreciate that these cars come fully loaded.

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  Perfection Product at Value Price - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Craddie - May 10 - 6:13 am

  This is my 3rd consecutive new Honda product, the last being an 03 Acura RSX Type S. We outgrew the RSX and were seriously considering the A4 and IS250 because we wanted RWD or AWD. We only went to the Acura dealership to find out the balance oweing on the RSX. We were sweet-talked into a test drive and our decision was made, we just had to pick a colour. I really cant understand how one could rationalize purchasing one of the TSXs competitors, unless it was CRITICAL that they had AWD or that it be German. This car is beautiful, performs well, extremely well equipped and is as comfortable as the Waldorf. A++++ to Acura for the 06 TSX. I cant imagine ever growing tired of it.

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  I love this car - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Jess F - May 7 - 12:50 am

  The interior sells the car. A very pleasant experience to drive. Very responsive. Bad weather! No problem.

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  First Impressions 2009 TSX - 2009 Acura TSX
  By John Duval - May 3 - 2:16 pm

  My wife and I drove the 2009 model, then the 2008 for comparison. We thought we might get a deal on the 2008 model, but the new model was well worth the higher price! The ride is much more refined and less floaty, the steering lighter and more connected. It feels very nimble, just the way I want an urban commuter. The steering may be too light for sport sedan enthusiasts. The ride is still a little busy and noisy, which is typical of this makers products, but very acceptable, and lightyears ahead of my RDX. The finish and feature set are by far the best we saw any where near this price.

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  hopeful, but disappointed - 2004 Acura TSX
  By jimc&hisTSX - May 2 - 10:00 am

  Only had mine 2 weeks, but have had a horrendous creaking in the right passenger A pillar area since day one; loud, annoying and constant! Svce mgr says its a prevalent problem with the TSXs. Great, just my luck. Anyone else had anything similar. Was it resolved? They tell me they havent had much luck resolving them. Have to wait 3 weeks to get it looked at. Otherwise, pretty fun car...especially the nav system. Its lots of fun. Wish it had heated ext. mirrors; why only in Canada? It gets plenty cold in the US also? Stupid! Traded in an A4. The TSX is nice and a good value, but its not an Audi. Thats what I get for boycotting German products.

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  Love this car! - 2005 Acura TSX
  By Deborah - April 25 - 10:50 am

  Bought my TSX in January and Ive been in love ever since. Absolutely beautiful inside and out. Quick, fun to drive. Get lots of positive comments from friends. Very comfortable seating and controls. Im very short so the electric seat adjustments are great. Thumbs up!

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  The best overall near luxury car you buy - 2006 Acura TSX
  By tyluv - April 25 - 10:20 am

  I really wanted a 01-03 BMW 530i, but could not see me paying 30k-35k for a used car! I checked out the vw passat, gti, jetta, audi A3, bmw 3series, ford mustang gt, lexus is250, infiniti g35, nissan maxima, saab 9-3, and the volvo s40. nothing and I mean nothing in this price range will give you the value and features of the TSX!!! Bluetooth, navi w/ voice recognition, memory seats, xm radio (youll never listen to regular radio again), mood lighting, dual exhaust, hid headlights, power heated leather seats, heated mirrors, dual zone climate control, and above all else, Honda/Acura reliabilty. Try all the others, but if you want reliability, value, and standard premium features. Buy TSX!

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  An Excellent Car For your Money - 2005 Acura TSX
  By goddsmack - April 22 - 1:03 pm

  My choices: Mazda 3, Honda 2-D Accord EX V6 6-spd, Nissan Altima, Lexus IS300, and G35 coupe 6MT. The Acura standed out above all in terms of best gas mileage, cheaper insurance, bang for your buck, seat comfort and reliability. Although the accord was close and a better deal (below invoice) than the Acura , the thing that stirred me away from the accord is the really light feel of the accord clutch. The Lexus is a good vehicle reliable, but outdated and screams on the highway due to a 5-spd manual tranmission. The G35 is also fun to drive, but tire issues, gas mileage and brake issues deferred me away. The 3 is wonderful to drive, no issues, but the TSX has more prestige and room.

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  Great Car - 2006 Acura TSX
  By Candice - April 21 - 10:33 pm

  I really enjoy driving my TSX, it is fun to drive has enough power, great gas milege, comes with all options included if you get the navigation system which is also helpful since it is hard to find your way around town sometimes if you are new to an area. The interior design is very classy and the exterior is sleek. I love this car I have had it for 3 months now and I dont think I could have got a better car for the money! It drives smooth, handles curves and wet conditions awesomely. I would seriously consider buying this car if you are in the market for this type of vehicle.

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  Acura TSX review - 2005 Acura TSX
  By shananigan - April 18 - 6:00 pm

  I absolutely LOVE my Acura TSX! I am very happy with it and would reccommend it to anyone. There are only a few things missing from it that I would complain about. Great car!!!