2004 Acura TSX: Road Test
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2004 Acura TSX ▼
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- MSRP: $26,490 -$28,490
- Invoice: $24,147 -$25,967
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Our road test for the 2004 Acura TSX includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Acura TSX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Acura TSX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Acura TSX help you decide if a 2004 Acura TSX is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.1 |
Only manual-transmission TSX made available for test so far. Test example did 7.9 sec 0-60 mph. Modest power below 3000 rpm, so brisk highway passing or merging requires attention to gear selection. Delights with light, precise shift/clutch action.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.2 |
Test manual-transmission TSXs averaged 22.6-27.3 mpg, depending on driving conditions. Premium fuel required.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.4 |
Firm but never jarring even on badly cratered pavement. Body motions well-controlled.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.1 |
Impressively agile on challenging mountain roads, with assuring grip, minimal body lean. Quick, responsive steering adds to the fun. Standard antiskid system enhances dynamic security. Powerful brakes have excellent pedal feel.
QUIETNESS
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.2 |
Refined for a small sports sedan, though not luxury-class hushed. Revvy, ultrasmooth 4-cyl engine audible but not unpleasant at high rpm. Tire noise intrudes some on coarse pavement, but isn't irksome either. Wind rush minimal.
CONTROLS
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.6 |
Simple and smart, though available navigation system takes some learning. It absorbs some climate and audio functions, which can frustrate simple adjustments, and voice recognition frequently misunderstands commands. One test example had misaligned steering-wheel trim, but overall, TSX has ingot-solid on-road feel, good detail finish, and classy cabin materials including handsome aluminum dashboard and door trim.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.3 |
Cozy feeling, but spacious enough. Firm, supportive seats bolstered to keep occupants secure in exuberant cornering. Standard tilt/telescopic steering wheel and power driver seat help tailor a sound basic driving stance. Good all-around visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 3.9 |
Head room tight for 6-footers, but surprisingly good leg and toe space even with front seats fully aft. Short seat cushion shy on leg support. Entry/exit slightly constricted by narrowish floor passages.
CARGO ROOM
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 3.9 |
Not bountiful, but good for a compact-size sedan, and most all the space is usable. Trunklid hinges don't intrude much and are designed so as not to threaten luggage. Standard split fold rear seatback has interior keylock, in-trunk releases. Cabin storage just adequate.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.1 |
TSX offers the same solid quality and high features-per-dollar quotient as big-sister TL, but ups the fun-to-drive factor in a trimmer, lighter package. Automatic transmission may cost some scoot, but the TSX is a very capable and appealing small sports sedan.
Total Score
| Base w/nav. sys., man. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 62 | 56.8 |
Total Score: 62
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