tsx overview

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Acura felt it should have a car to compete with the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, so it came up with the TSX, an intriguing car that does much with little. It starts with a European Honda Accord, slightly smaller than ours, including the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, and adds impeccable execution all the way to your driveway. That execution is what the TSX pits against the benchmark BMW 325.

Honda's 200-horsepower engine boasts a broad torque curve that responds immediately to the drive-by-wire throttle and quick work with its sweet gearbox. The suspension dances to the tune of a European sports sedan. The brakes scrub off triple-digit speeds without drama and the pedals are set up well for effortless heel-and-toe braking and downshifting. For an enthusiast, the 2004 Acura TSX eliminates the lust for European-market cars.

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Acura is a division of Honda Motor. The TSX is Acura's smallest sedan and is based on the European Honda Accord platform, which is smaller than the U.S. Accord.

Like all Acuras and Hondas, the front-wheel-drive TSX is light on its feet and a pleasure to throw through turns. Its high-revving and gutsy four-cylinder engine (the only available power plant), slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission (an automatic is available) and sophisticated suspension are engaging.

The only changes for 2005 are the addition of heated side-view mirrors, a four-way power-adjustable passenger seat and standard XM satellite radio with 90 days of complimentary service.


Acura TSX Owner Demographics
57% male
48% married
Median age of 35
84% college educated
Median household income of $82,000


Acura introduced the TSX in 2004 with the goal of capturing affluent young adults who want sporty performance and handling, but need the practicality of a sedan. At a base price that undercuts comparably equipped competitors, like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, by thousands of dollars, it's a superb value — especially considering that it comes loaded with premium amenities like heated front seats, a high-output eight-speaker stereo with in-dash CD changer, three kinds of airbags and advanced stability and traction control.

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Specifications for the Acura TSX
Basic Specs
Body style: Sedan
Seating capacity: 5
Engine: 2.4L I-4 16 valve DOHC SMPI
Engine horsepower: 205hp @ 7,000RPM
Engine torque: 164 lb.-ft. @ 4,500RPM
Transmission: 5 speed automatic
Drivetrains: front-wheel
Curb weight: 3,268lbs (1,482kg)
Miles per gallon (city/hwy): 22/30
Performance Specs
0-60 mph: 7.2 seconds
Lateral acceleration (g): .9
Power-to-weight ratio: 15.9 lb/hp