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2009 Acura TSX Full Review
Date Published: 5/03/08
Also in the 2009 Acura TSX Review:
5.
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Acura TSX Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2009 Acura TSX Review
The 2009 Acura TSX is redesigned with freshened styling and new features. This front-wheel drive sedan is Acura's entry-level car, and TSX shares some of its basic design with the European-market Honda Accord. The 2009 model is about 1 inch longer in wheelbase, 2.5 inches longer overall, and 3 inches wider than the 2004-2008 TSX. Interior dimensions are largely unchanged, however. The sole engine is a 201-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder. It teams with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. The automatic has steering wheel paddles to facilitate manual gear changes. The 2009 TSX comes in a single trim level that includes standard features such as a sunroof, wireless cell phone link, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and automatic climate control. Standard safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. An optional Technology Package, priced as a separate model, includes a navigation system with real-time traffic and weather information, rearview camera, and 10-speaker, 415-watt surround-sound audio system. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.
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2009 Acura TSX Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Steering/handling | Engine noise |
| Cabin refinement | Rear-seat room/comfort |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 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
No opportunity to measure. Acura recommends premium-grade gas.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 5 | 5.2 |
No opportunity to measure. Acura recommends premium-grade gas.
Ride Quality
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.
| 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
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.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 8 | 7.8 |
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
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.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 5 | 6.3 |
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
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. 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.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 |
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. 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
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 sophisticated overall ambiance.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 7 | 7.4 |
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 sophisticated overall ambiance.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
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.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 6 | 7.1 |
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)
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.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 3 | 3.2 |
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
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.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 3 | 3.7 |
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
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.
| Base w/Technology Pkg., manual | Class Average |
| 6 | 7.3 |
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 |
| 61 | 66.7 |
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
| Low Score | 61 | |
| Average Score | 66 | |
| High Score | 72 |
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2009 Acura TSX Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/30/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
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| Base 4-door sedan, manual | $28,960 | $26,621 | $715 |
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| Base 4-door sedan, automatic | $28,960 | $26,621 | $715 |
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| Base 4-door sedan w/Technology Pkg., manual | $32,060 | $29,464 | $715 |
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| Base 4-door sedan w/Technology Pkg., automatic | $32,060 | $29,464 | $715 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base
Powertrain
2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system, front-seat active head restraints, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights, emergency inside trunklid release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic controls, interior air filter, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, heated front bucket seats, 8-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), 4-way power passenger seat, center console, split folding rear seat, heated power mirrors w/turn signals and passenger-side tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power sunroof, AM/FM/CD/MP3, digital-media connection, satellite radio, wireless cell phone link, tachometer, compass, automatic day/night rearview mirror, universal garage door opener, illuminated visor mirrors, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, automatic-off headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, xenon headlights, fog lights, 225/50VR17 tires, alloy wheels.
Base w/Technology Pkg. adds to Base:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system w/voice recognition, traffic and weather information, rearview camera, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3/DVD Audio changer, upgraded sound system.
Optional Equipment
No factory options.
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2009 Acura TSX Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Acura TSX 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 106.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 186.1 |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3419 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 12.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.3 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.4 /144 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 201 @ 7000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 172 @ 4400 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| 6-speed manual | 20/28 |
| 5-speed automatic | 21/30 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Acura TSX 4-door sedan |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Built in:
Japan
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2009 Acura TSX Review:
5.
6.
Acura TSX Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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