Acceleration

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
6	6.7

Only manual-transmission 2009 TSX models were made available for initial testing. They have surprisingly good low- and mid-range punch given an engine that produces its maximum horsepower at a rather lofty 7000 rpm. The '09 TSX weighs about 150 lb more than its predecessor but doesn't feel any slower the 7.9-second 0-60 mph time we recorded with a 2008 version. Light shifter and clutch action make this premium compact very easy to drive.

Fuel Economy

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
5	5.5

In Consumer Guide testing a TSX with manual transmission averaged 28.6 mpg in mostly highway driving. Acura recommends premium-grade gas.

Ride Quality

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
6	5.7

An extra 2 inches of wheelbase adds more stability to TSX's ride. It remains firm, but bump absorption is very good with little impact harshness. Credit Acura's prudent tuning of the suspension and use of 17-inch all-season tires, rather than larger and/or summer-only treads.

Steering/Handling/Braking

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
8	7.5

Handling does not take a back seat to ride comfort in the 2009 TSX. This premium compact carves corners with grippy assurance and little body lean. The electronic steering system offers light effort at low speeds but firms up nicely on the highway or twisty mountain roads. Braking action is drama-free, but some test cars suffered from slightly dull pedal action.

Quietness

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
5	6.1

Acura claims better aerodynamics and additional sound insulation reduce noise, which is true when it comes to wind rush. The engine, however, sounds loud and unrefined, particularly as its speed rises. Coarse-surface tire thrum is also intrusive.

Controls

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
6	6.3

The gauges are large and quick to decipher at a glance. All 2009 TSX models have a center-mounted dashboard screen for audio, climate, and navigation functions. Those controls are all separate from each other and are clearly marked. The screen however is prone to washing out in bright sunlight. Thankfully, there are not as many buttons on the center dashboard stack as in Acura's MDX. The navigation system takes study to master all its functions. Standard voice recognition helps, but any commands must be spoken slowly, loudly, and clearly.

Details

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
6	7

Models tested were pre-production examples that still showed solid assembly quality with nicely textured trim and plastics. A few pieces were unappealing hard plastic but were not in sufficient supply to detract from the clean overall ambiance.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
6	7

Despite an increase in cabin width of about 2 inches, the interior feel is still cozy overall. Legroom is good, but headroom for taller occupants gets tight beneath the sunroof housing. The seats are nicely bolstered if a bit too firm for ideal comfort. Visibility is good all around, though the outside mirrors are on the small side.

Room/Comfort (rear)

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
3	3.4

Somewhat disappointing given this vehicle's longer wheelbase versus its predecessor. Legroom is cramped even if the front seats are not set far back. Fortunately, the angle of the rear seatback prevents the sunroof housing from stealing too much headroom. As in front, taller passengers will find head clearance lacking. Foot space is tight unless the front seats are raised high.

Cargo Room

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
3	3.8

A wide aperture and low deck are thoughtful, but the trunk narrows quite a bit between the rear tires, limiting its usefulness for hauling bulky items. Oddly, TSX's trunk has traditional lid hinges rather than compact strut-type ones. They steal little cargo space, though. Storage pockets in all four doors help compensate for the somewhat small glovebox and center console bins.

Value within Class

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
6	6.4

The redesigned 2009 TSX brings meaningful improvements in this premium compact car's ride quality without sacrificing its excellent handling characteristics. The manual transmission is particularly delightful. It's let down by a somewhat noisy engine, a cramped rear seat and, when equipped with the available navigation system, a daunting control scheme. On the whole, TSX remains a strong entry in the class.

Total Score

Base w/Technology Pkg., manual	Class Average
60	65.4

Scores for all Premium Compact Cars

Low Score		60
Average Score		65
High Score		72