2010 Acura TSX: Road Test
2010 Acura TSX ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $29,310 - $37,950
- Invoice: $26,959 - $34,882
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Acura TSX
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2010 Acura TSX includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Acura TSX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Acura TSX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Acura TSX help you decide if a 2010 Acura TSX is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 6.7 |
Manual transmission 4-cylinder TSX models have surprisingly good low- and mid-range punch given an engine that produces its maximum horsepower at a rather lofty 7000 rpm. Light shifter and clutch action make this premium compact very easy to drive. V6 models make easy work of passing and merging and are helped by a responsive automatic transmission.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a 4-cylinder TSX with manual transmission averaged 28.6 mpg in mostly highway driving. A V6 version averaged 22.8 mpg, also in a test that included mostly highway driving. All models require premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.4 |
TSX rides firmly but absorbs bumps well, with little impact harshness. Credit Acura's prudent tuning of the suspension and use of 17-inch all-season tires. The V6 model's 18s don't absorb road imperfections as well, but the ride is still generally composed.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.3 |
This premium compact carves corners with grippy assurance and little body lean. V6 models are subject to some torque-steer wander, but it's pretty well controlled. 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.
QUIETNESS
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 6 |
Wind rush is well muted, though coarse-surface tire thrum can be intrusive. The 4-cylinder sounds loud and unrefined, particularly as its speed rises. The V6 has a great performance sound and is nearly silent at cruise.
CONTROLS
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.2 |
The gauges are large and quick to decipher at a glance. All 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. However, the screen is prone to washing out in bright sunlight. It takes study to master all of the navigation system's functions. Standard voice recognition helps, but any commands must be spoken slowly, loudly, and clearly.
DETAILS
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.2 |
TSX exhibits solid assembly quality with nicely textured trim and plastics. A few interior panels look low buck, but they don't detract from the clean overall ambiance.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Legroom is good, and even tall occupants have sufficient headroom. The seats are nicely bolstered. Visibility is good all around, though the outside mirrors are on the small side.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.7 |
Somewhat disappointing. 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
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 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. TSX's trunk lid has traditional hinges rather than compact strut-type units, though they steal little cargo space and are covered to prevent cargo damage. Storage pockets in all four doors help compensate for the somewhat small glovebox and center console bins.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 5.7 |
TSX is let down by a somewhat noisy 4-cylinder engine, a cramped rear seat and, when equipped with the available navigation system, a daunting control scheme. However, Acura's entry-level car boasts excellent handling characteristics with little sacrifice in ride quality. The V6 is a welcome addition to this lineup, delivering a refined engine note, great power, and reasonable fuel economy. These virtues, combined with competitive pricing, make TSX a good choice in this class.
Total Score
| 4-cylinder w/Technology Pkg, manual | V6 w/Technology Pkg | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 64 | 65 | 64.8 |
Total Score: 65
Scores for all Premium Compact Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
