fter its 2004 debut, the compact TSX was left alone aside from a few styling tweaks. This is the one Acura whose horsepower rating actually changed for the better (200 > 205) by 2006's new measuring standards. The TSX still serves as Honda's far cheaper, 4-cylinder, front-wheel-drive challenger to the BMW 3-series.
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fter its 2004 debut, the compact TSX was left alone aside from a few styling tweaks. This is the one Acura whose horsepower rating actually changed for the better (200 > 205) by 2006's new measuring standards. The TSX still serves as Honda's far cheaper, 4-cylinder, front-wheel-drive challenger to the BMW 3-series.
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For some reason, car enthusiasts love throwing this out when it comes to a redesigned model. It's an unusual (and often faulty) way of showing off supposed automotive acumen; an offshoot of the "they don't build 'em like they used to" attitude. Having said that, the 2009 Acura TSX may not be worse than its predecessor, but we're not sure it's improved.
The TSX basics remain. Acura's entry-level model is a front-wheel-drive sedan with a high-revving four-cylinder engine, taut handling, a spacious cabin and class-leading feature content. Some thought Acura would use the turbocharged engine from its RDX, a small SUV, this time around, but instead it chose to just slightly revise the normally aspirated 2.4-liter inline-4 to produce a bit more low- and midrange power -- a decision that could prove to be a potential liability. With 201 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, output is certainly adequate and now more useful in everyday driving, but shoppers keen on spicy acceleration will find more to like from turbocharged or V6-powered competitors. Given that the fuel economy is also only a hair better than the related (and heavier) Honda Accord's 268-hp V6, it seems Acura missed the opportunity to get a jump on competitor vehicles that provide similar power and fuel economy to the TSX.
There are a few areas where the TSX has gone backwards. The new electric steering isn't as communicative as the old hydraulic system. Styling, while subjective, is not as streamlined as the original "flying wedge" design -- the new TSX has bulges and creases and a chrome grille mustache, all of which try too hard to mask an otherwise mundane sedan. Inside, the TSX's previous touchscreen electronics interface (good) has been replaced with a multipurpose knob with a multitude of buttons (bad). Thankfully, the intuitive voice commands remain.
Still, while some of these models may be faster, more luxurious, more fuel-efficient, better-handling or less costly than the TSX, few (if any) offer such a solid mix of it all. The problem is, the '08 edition did that too, and car buyers were still looking elsewhere. The 2009 Acura TSX just doesn't raise the bar high enough. In fact, it barely budges it. In other words, "the last one was better."
© Source: edmunds
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The first generation Acura TSX received glowing reviews from the media and owners alike. While not having the most exciting styling or the beefiest of powertrains, the TSX offered a sensible and reliable vehicle with plenty of standard options that didn't break the bank. Our man Damon road-tripped a 2007 TSX up to Lake Tahoe and was pleasantly surprised with the driving characteristics and smooth powertrain, although he put Acura's turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-4 on the wish list.
With Acura launching an all-new TSX in 2009, we've been itching to see what direction they would go with the second generation. Fortunately, we didn't have to wait long to find out because Acura invited us to test the new TSX just a few weeks before officially launching the car at the New York Auto Show.
© Source: autoblog
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Acura will launch the second generation of its TSX sports sedan at the New York auto show next month -- and in advance of the big public party they've released this teaser photo of the new sedan.
The new TSX, Acura says, gets advances to its performance, styling, technology and safety -- pretty standard stuff for a vehicle once named to Car and Driver's 10Best list.
The TSX bears a clear resemblance to the new RL sedan shown at the Chicago auto show last week. And since its roots are in the European Honda Accord, which remains a four-cylinder vehicle, we expect the new TSX to stick with a version of Honda's global four-cylinder engine, although some reports indicate the TSX will be the first Honda to receive a new low-emissions diesel engine sometime in 2009.
Stay tuned for more information on the New York show debuts at the link below, and check back for more details on the TSX as the show opens on March 19.
© Source: thecarconnection
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