2004-2008 Acura TSX: Road Test

A test manual-shift model accelerated to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds. Expect modest power below 3000 rpm, so brisk highway passing or merging requires careful attention to gear selection. The manual-gearbox TSX delights with light, precise shift/clutch action. With automatic, it's slow from a stop, but alert shifting delivers good highway punch. Manual-transmission TSXs have averaged 22.6 to 30.2 mpg, depending on driving conditions. An automatic-transmission model averaged 26.4 mpg. Premium fuel is required. The ride is firm but never jarring, even on badly cratered pavement. Body motions are well controlled. Impressively agile on challenging mountain roads, the TSX operates with assuring grip and minimal body lean. Quick, responsive steering adds to the pleasure, while the standard antiskid system enhances dynamic security. Powerful brakes have excellent pedal feel. Quietly refined for a small sports sedan, the TSX isn't really luxury-class hushed. The revvy, ultra-smooth four-cylinder engine is audible but not unpleasant at high rpm. Tire noise intrudes somewhat on coarse pavement, but isn't irksome either. Wind rush is minimal. Instruments and controls are simple and smart, though the available navigation system takes some study. It absorbs some climate and audio functions, which can frustrate simple adjustments. Even worse, voice-recognition frequently misunderstands commands and comprehends only clearly spoken, precisely worded phrases. One test example had misaligned steering-wheel trim, but overall, TSX sedans offer ingot-solid on-road feel, good detail finish, and classy cabin materials--including handsome aluminum dashboard and door trim. Though cozy feeling up front, the TSX is spacious enough. Firm, supportive seats are bolstered to keep occupants secure in exuberant cornering. The standard tilt/telescopic steering wheel and power driver's seat help tailor a sound basic driving stance. Visibility is good all-around. Rear head room is tight for 6-footers, but passengers get surprisingly good leg and toe space, even with front seats fully aft. Short seat cushions are shy on leg support, though. Entry/exit is slightly constricted by narrowish floor passages. Cargo space is short of bountiful, but good for a compact-size sedan, and most of the space is usable. Trunk lid hinges don't intrude much and are designed so as not to threaten luggage. Standard split-fold rear seatbacks have an interior keylock and in-trunk releases. Cabin storage is just adequate.

Value for the Money
TSX offers the same solid quality and high features-per-dollar quotient as Acura's bigger TL, but ups the fun-to-drive factor in a trimmer, lighter package. An automatic transmission may cost some scoot, but in any form the TSX is a very capable and appealing small sports sedan.