2005 Acura TSX: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Satellite radio is one of several new 2005 standard features for the entry-level sedan at Honda's upscale division. The TSX is a premium compact slotted between Acura's RSX coupe and TL sedan. A 200-hp 2.4-liter 4-cyl engine teams with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, and 17-inch alloy wheels are standard. So are head-protecting curtain side airbags and front torso side airbags. The TSX also includes leather upholstery, sunroof, automatic climate control, tilt/telescope steering wheel, in-dash CD changer, power driver seat, and xenon headlamps. Besides satellite radio, the '05 models add a power passenger seat and heated power door mirrors. The only option is a navigation system, which is priced as a separate model and includes voice recognition for some navigation, audio, and climate functions. Also for '05, night lighting is added to the standard steering-wheel audio/cruise-control buttons.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.

Our single Best Buy in the Premium Compact Car class is the Acura TSX. Our Recommended picks include the BMW 3-Series and the Saab 9-3.