Acura TSX
2004-2008
The TSX represented Acura's attempt to capture European sport sedan dynamics in a reliable Japanese package. Its high-revving naturally aspirated engine and well-tuned chassis delivered an engaging yet refined driving experience that appealed to enthusiasts seeking daily usability.
Quick Take
The first-generation Acura TSX was essentially a rebadged Honda Accord Euro sold in North America, offering European sport sedan dynamics in a compact package. It featured Honda's high-revving K24A2 i-VTEC engine and was praised for its excellent build quality, refined ride, and engaging driving experience.
Best For
Key Strength
K24A2 Engine Character
Watch For
Torque Delivery
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Based on the seventh-generation Honda Accord sold in Europe and Japan, the TSX was developed to compete with BMW 3-Series and Audi A4 in the compact luxury segment. It marked Acura's commitment to offering more sophisticated, European-inspired vehicles in their lineup.
Design Philosophy
The TSX emphasized balance over extremes, featuring clean exterior lines, a driver-focused interior, and chassis tuning that prioritized composure and feedback. Every element was designed to create a cohesive, premium experience that felt more expensive than its price point suggested.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The K24A2 i-VTEC engine delivers smooth, linear power with a distinct character change at the 4,000 RPM VTEC engagement point. While not torque-heavy at low RPM, it rewards enthusiastic driving with eager revs and a satisfying mechanical soundtrack that builds to its 7,000 RPM redline.
Chassis Dynamics
The TSX offers precise, communicative steering and well-controlled body motions that inspire confidence in spirited driving. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between ride comfort and handling precision, with minimal body roll and predictable limit behavior that makes it accessible to drivers of all skill levels.
Sound Signature
The i-VTEC engine produces a refined growl at low RPM that transforms into an aggressive, mechanical howl as VTEC engages and the engine climbs toward redline.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The 2.4L i-VTEC engine delivers smooth, linear power with a satisfying high-RPM rush. While torque is modest at 166 lb-ft, the engine loves to rev and provides excellent throttle response once VTEC engages at 5800 RPM.
Honda's engineering shines through in the TSX's well-balanced suspension tuning. The car offers predictable handling with minimal understeer, making it confidence-inspiring for spirited driving while maintaining ride comfort for daily use.
Honest Tradeoffs
The K24's power band requires keeping RPMs high for best performance, making it less satisfying in stop-and-go traffic. The engine can feel sluggish below 3000 RPM, especially with the automatic transmission.
Wind and road noise become noticeable at highway speeds, and the engine can sound coarse under heavy acceleration. The premium positioning doesn't fully deliver on refinement compared to German rivals.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for enthusiasts who want a reliable, refined daily driver that offers genuine driving engagement without sacrificing comfort or practicality. Appeals to those who appreciate naturally aspirated engine character and precise chassis dynamics.