The compact Acura TSX is big enough for four adults yet small enough to be nimble.
The standard four-cylinder has 201 horsepower, but some folks want a little more kick. For 2010, Acura is offering the option of a 280-horsepower V-6 and a specially geared five-speed automatic transmission. Paddle shifters on the steering wheel are handy for changing gears, and they can be used for a quick downshift without moving the shift lever out of drive.
The V-6 is docile when you want it to be, but mash the throttle and it erupts with vigorous acceleration. The TSX can now face off with top competitors from Europe.
The V-6 gets a retuned suspension and 18-inch wheels. The ride is firm enough to deliver sharp handling, but it is also comfortable enough for daily commuting. The stiffer body structure also contributes to the tight handling.
The bigger engine bumps the base price from $29,310 to $34,850. The tech package, with voice-activated navigation, backup camera and a surround-sound stereo, pushes the sticker price to $38,760.
The TSX seems to be a just-right size. Its 106.5-inch wheelbase is 1.4 inches longer than the 2008’s, and overall width is up by 3 inches. The cabin is 2.6 inches wider, and that gives occupants a bit more shoulder room. Rear-seat legroom is improved as well.
A station wagon will be available in the fall.
The styling has sharp edges and pronounced wheel arches, but it retains cues that let you know it is related to the previous model. Acura’s signature grille, a broad swoosh of brushed silver, looks a bit heavy handed on a car that is otherwise lean and athletic.
The TSX cabin is not only larger than that of the previous model, but it is more refined. The instrument panel wraps into the center console in a way that makes the front seat feel like an airplane cockpit. The instruments have floating needles, and the navigation system uses an 8-inch LCD screen in the center of the dash.
The V-6 package includes an active sound control system that cancels out annoying sound frequencies.
The front bucket seats grip your body and are as comfortable as any seats I have sampled. The headrests are designed to move forward to help mitigate head and neck injuries in the event of a rear impact.
Acura’s navigation system now has real-time weather information that enables the driver to see current weather for the area, one- to three-day forecasts and severe-weather warnings. The weather function will be especially valuable for drivers on a long trip.
Acura’s navigation system also provides real-time traffic alerts via XM satellite radio. The screen shows traffic snarls and suggests alternate routes.
The premium audio system features ELS surround sound developed by Elliot Scheiner, a Grammy Award-winning producer and engineer. The ELS system is phenomenal, and I think it may be the best-sounding standard car audio system I have heard when used with an audio DVD. Ten speakers provide 500 times more resolution than a standard CD player.
An MP3 player can be plugged into the car and accessed through the car’s steering-wheel controls. The tech package also includes Bluetooth phone compatibility.
Price
The base price of the test vehicle was $34,850. The technology package and destination charges brought the sticker price to $38,760.
Warranty
Four years or 50,000 miles.
2010 Acura TSX V-6
Engine: 3.5-liter, 280-hp V-6
Transmission: Automatic
Front-wheel drive
Wheelbase: 106.5 inches
Curb weight: 3,485 lbs.
Base price: $34,850
As driven: $38,760
MPG rating: 18 city, 27 hwy
Tom Strongman’s e-mail address is tom@tomstrongman.com.
