2009 Acura TSX: Road Test
2009 Acura TSX ▼
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- MSRP: $29,160 - $32,260
- Invoice: $26,822 - $29,664
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Our road test for the 2009 Acura TSX includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Acura TSX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Acura TSX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Acura TSX help you decide if a 2009 Acura TSX is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base w/Technology Pkg, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.6 |
Only manual-transmission 2009 TSX models were made available for 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 2009 TSX weighs about 150 lb more than its predecessor but doesn't feel any slower than 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 | 5.4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a 4-cylinder 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 | 5.3 |
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 | 7.4 |
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 | 5.9 |
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 | 6.2 |
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 | 7.2 |
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 | 6.8 |
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 | 4 |
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 |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.7 |
TSX is let down by a somewhat noisy engine, a cramped rear seat and, when equipped with the available navigation system, a daunting control scheme. Its 2009 redesign, however, brings meaningful improvements in this premium compact car's ride quality without sacrificing its excellent handling characteristics. The manual transmission is particularly delightful. These virtues, combined with reasonable pricing, make TSX a Recommended choice in this class.
Total Score
| Base w/Technology Pkg, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 61 | 63.9 |
Total Score: 61
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