Heaping on loads of technological gadgets doesn't necessarily make this luxury sports sedan any sportier, though Acura would like you to think it does. The 2009 Acura TSX certainly packs in plenty of upscale features, but its primary changes for 2009 are improvements to the handling, safety, and structure of this front-wheel-drive American version of the European Honda Accord.

Although it retains a 2.4-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, tweaks to the intake and exhaust systems, valve timing, and a higher compression ratio promise a more widely distributed power range. Horsepower drops to 201, but torque rises to 172 ft-lbs at 4,400 RPM. For 2009, this engine now meets the ULEV low emission standards of the EPA. A close-ratio six-speed manual is standard, with the option to add a five-speed Sportshift automatic, controlled by paddle shifters on the wheel. With 0-60 times of 6.6 seconds, the 2009 TSX won't win any races, and in fact comparable German sports sedans offer much more power without sacrificing too much fuel economy. The TSX averages 22/30 mpg.

Updates to the 2009 TSX include more pronounced wheel wells and a smaller RL-inspired front grille. On the performance side, the TSX boasts a stronger chassis, with new cross-brace reinforcements, a beefed up rear bulkhead, interior frame rails, and a longer wheelbase (by 1.3 inches) and wider track (by 3 inches). This not only improves stability, reduces body lean in turns, and offers smoother handling, it also adds a few more inches to passenger hiproom. Revisions to the A, B, and C pillars improve visibility and increase sound dampening. Also on hand is the new Advanced Compatibility Engineering system up front, which reduces frontal bumper impact in collisions. Hoping to increase its crash-test scores, the 2009 TSX offers standard traction and stability control, 17-inch wheels, six airbags, and four-wheel ABS brakes.

The 2009 Acura TSX maintains its high-end features. Already standard are powered and heated front seats, leather upholstery, a sunroof, a 7-speaker sound system, a CD/MP3 player with iPod input, xenon headlights, remote entry, and automatic climate control. New standard features include Bluetooth, more wheel-mounted controls, and a compass. The Technology Package offers up an optional rearview camera, new 10-speaker surround sound, a 6-CD changer, and a navigation system that is now voice-based rather than touchscreen-based. It comes with new real-time traffic and weather updates. The center console has been revised and more chrome-plated plastic added. Despite the additional length and width, however, rear legroom remains cramped, and the trunk loses some space, clocking in at 12.6 cubic feet. Other drawbacks include tire noise and bland styling. Many drivers complain that the light and numb steering reduces road feel, which is unfortunate for a sports car.