Acura TSX Review

The Acura TSX is a relatively new vehicle in the entry-level luxury sport sedan segment. Consumers seeking a sedan that's sportier and a bit more upscale than the typical family four-door will find a lot to like. The TSX, which is Acura's least expensive model, is 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.

One downside to the Acura TSX is that we suspect many people don't perceive it as being as prestigious to own as more established cars from European automakers. This is probably a function of the car's recent arrival in the marketplace, the fact that until recently it only offered four-cylinder power and its plebeian Honda roots. (The TSX is essentially a rebadged and prettified version of the European Honda Accord.)

Though the first-generation Acura TSX impressed us with its sporty and nimble feel, the small backseat and firm ride weren't for everyone. The second (current) generation offers a roomier cabin and a smoother, more isolated ride; however, the sporty feel was evidently sacrificed for these gains. The recently introduced V6 model with its sportier suspension atones for that sin somewhat. However, most folks will likely be considering the less-expensive four-cylinder TSX, which doesn't offer as sporty a drive. In that case, we still deem it worthy of consideration, but only if potential buyers care more about "luxury" than "sport" character in a luxury sport sedan.

Current Acura TSX

The Acura TSX offers seating for five passengers and an impressive array of standard high-end features, including 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, a sunroof, heated power front seats with driver memory, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth and a seven-speaker CD audio system with satellite radio and iPod integration. Models equipped with the Technology Package add such niceties as a navigation system, a rearview camera and a premium 10-speaker sound system with in-dash six-CD changer. All TSXs have antilock brakes, stability control, front side impact airbags and side curtain airbags for all outboard passengers.

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) Transmissions consist of an excellent six-speed manual (four-cylinder version only) or a five-speed automatic. While commendably smooth in the Honda tradition, the 2.4-liter four 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 road tests, we've been impressed with the TSX's technological features list but rather disappointed with how it drives. The current TSX (particularly the four-cylinder version) often seems like more of a lavishly appointed family car than a luxury sedan. The steering feel is surprisingly numb for a Honda product -- the new electric steering assist is the likely culprit -- and braking performance verges on unacceptable. The refined but lackluster inline-4 is unlikely to impress shoppers in the TSX's upscale segment. The sport-tuned V6 version, however, brings improvements in both acceleration and handling.

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.