As an entry-level luxury sports sedan, the Acura TSX combines Honda's technological prowess with Acura's accent on upscale appointments. For example, Acura's "standard" list on the TSX seems to include many of normal options on other brands - here are a few of them: Xenon high-intensity discharge headlights, automatic climate control with interior air filter, power glass tilt and slide moonroof, Acura premium sound system with 6-disc CD changer and XM Satellite Radio, and trip computer.
The high-winding 2.4-liter dohc, i-VTEC 16-valve four-cylinder engine delivers 205-hp at 7,100 rpm. A close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed automatic are available. Performance inclined reviewers raved over the manual transmission, enjoying "snicking" the gears on the free-revving four. As with most Honda based four cylinder engines, they have to be kept on the "boil" to be effective, as they don't produce much torque. Yet, the 0-60 mph standard snicks by in 6.6 seconds. EPA rated for 22/30 mpg city/highway - though some reviewers reported mixed averages of 19 mpg, owners claim higher averages.
The TSX travels on a race-bred four-wheel double-wishbone front and multi-link rear with all-wheel disc brakes. For more fun, you can check the A-Spec suspension option. Safety features include ABS with electronic brake force distribution, front and side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags for all outboard passengers, and traction and stability control.
Interior materials and design underscore typical Acura quality. The five-passenger cabin features leather seating surfaces, a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel with assorted tech buttons, and an amazing optional DVD-based navigation system. Some reviewers found the voice-activation down right "scary" in its ability to understand commands under all kinds of noise/music intrusion situations. And given the size of the TSX, road, engine, and wind noise do intrude.
Combining technology and luxury with traditional above-average Acura reliability, the TSX holds its own against the other Japanese and European competitors in this market.
