2009 Acura TSX [ 2008 , 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 24 TSX reviews and test drives.
Acura TSX - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Acura TSX ranks 4 out of 7 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 24 published reviews and test drives of the Acura TSX, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The TSX is a redesigned version of the popular midsize sedan that delivers fun-to-drive dynamics and an agreeable price. But some say it lacks punch in design or performance.
The 2009 Acura TSX is marketed as a new and improved version of a good-driving, good looking automobile. But reviewers appear to hold Acura to a higher standard, and the redesign leaves many auto writers wishing for more. "The TSX is a solid, fun car to drive, loaded with technology. Acura bills it as an entry-level premium sports sedan, and that description seems apt," writes AutoWeek, before countering, "A bit more sport, with some more ponies underhood, would be nice."
The TSX is a front-wheel drive sedan available with either a manual or automatic transmission. For this year, the TSX's most notable changes include a new exterior look and a larger interior with new cabin features. If you're in the market for an upscale small car with a sportier look and feel, consider the Volkswagen GTI or the Audi A3.
- "Paying attention to details such as ride, handling, noise, vibration and harshness, not to mention sharper styling, a larger, more comfortable cabin and maybe the best sound system on four wheels, the '09 model is a step up from the outgoing model." -- AutoWeek
- "The sedan has the requisite sparkle and performance, but feels like a luxury car wrapped around an economy powertrain." -- Los Angeles Times
- "Over all, the 2009 TSX is a fine vehicle in most important respects. It is well made, well equipped and likely to be reliable. Its base price is reasonable. But its performance is just adequate. I have to believe the TSX was designed with a higher standard in mind." -- New York Times
- "In the battle between luxury and performance for Acura's soul, luxury is winning and, frankly, that's too bad." -- Popular Mechanics
- "The 2009 Acura TSX is kind of like the little engine that thought it could, but found out it couldn't. As decent a car as it is, and it is a very decent car, it's not the full-fledged sporty sedan it could be, and that Acura seems to want it to be." -- New Car Test Drive
TSX Performance - 6.3 (Mediocre)
Most say the 2009 Acura TSX is a component performer, but not an exciting one, and while some reviews praise the car's ride quality, others wish for more sportiness. Car and Driver likes that "a balance has been retained in spite of Honda's thorough reworking of pretty much everything around that honey of an engine." But New Car Test Drive states, "Driving the new TSX doesn't deliver as much fun as an honest-to-goodness sporty sedan could/should for one simple reason: front-wheel drive." Continue with our Performance Review for a clearer picture of the 2009 TSX's road capabilities, and to get specific fuel numbers from the EPA. continue
TSX Exterior - 7.3 (Good)
The Los Angeles Times writer best captures reviewer sentiment on the 2009 TSX's design. "Is it attractive? I think the word is clinical," he writes. "Rarely do you see a design that is so obviously driven by the marketers' metaphorical imperatives -- high-tech but not alienating, sleek but safe." Go to our full Exterior Review to see if others regard the TSX design as safe. continue
TSX Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)
Supreme comfort for the front row and suitable luxury are key descriptors of the Acura TSX cabin. Popular Mechanics reports, "Honda does know how to stitch together an interior. Every seam, switch, material and control in the new TSX is high quality. The front seats, for one thing, are superbly shaped for maximum comfort." But potential buyers should also be warned of the crowded instrument panel, the confined rear seats and the inflated price for the optional Technology Package. Our full Interior Review gives a better idea of writers' opinion on the sedan's features. continue
TSX Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
The new TSX does very well in both government and insurance industry safety tests. Check out our Safety Review to learn more about how the sedan protects occupants in a collision, or its available equipment to prevent one. continue
TSX Reliability - NA
The 2009 Acura TSX has a four-year or 50,000 mile basic warranty, and powertrain coverage for six years or 70,000 miles. The TSX also has rust coverage for the first five years, regardless of mileage. Check out our full Reliability Review fore more on Acura's reliability and warranties. continue
