Acura TSX

drewba

I drive a 2005 auto TSX. While there are certainly faster cars on the road, it is without question plenty fast for on-ramps and high speed passing.

In fact, I think it really shines in high speed passing. When you floor it, the transmission downshifts from 5th to 3rd and you are right in the sweet spot of the powerband.

If you want something that pushes you back in your seat and feels really fast, an auto TSX isn't it, but it is definitely fast enough for real world driving situations.

For me, it's the right balance between performance and fuel economy.

151ranch

Shifter is farther back in the console in the TL, my elbow kept hitting the seat bolster every time I shifted (or some other difference in the seating placement). Anyway, I have had lots of small MT vehicles and never had that happen before.

By "pulling" (bad description, I guess) I meant the TL seemed to want to stay in a pretty limited rev band despite what I was asking for - like an automatic. I may be female, but I do know whether a car is FWD or not :P

151ranch

Yeah, we can use the environmental excuse for thin paint, but Honda has always had mediocre (or worse) paint. Doesn't stop me from buying Hondas, but I'll still whine about it. :shades:

mf15

Thanks for the input. I really should know how accords drive, my wife leased 3 of them all with 4 cylinders since 1995, not that I drove them much they are ok. I really think it is the honda automatic that has to learn, I am assuming that it is a learning transmission, might be wrong it has been sometime since she had one. Anyhow I had the engine screaming on a slight incline and it did not seem like I was really going anywhere. Will need more test drive time by myself. It is possible that I will just have to drive a v6, I just enjoy the Altima power in my sons 05 5 speed but do not want a stick for myself. So if I want the power and a real nice car then a TL would fit the bill or a g35. But then again do I really need all that power, or should I just get one of each. Heck that might be easier, than trying to figure this out. Thanks Old Mike

Karen_S

A reporter aims to talk with a current Honda or Acura owner who is looking to change ownership to another brand. Please respond to ctalati@edmunds.com no later than February 28, 2007 with your daytime contact information.

dynatsx1

This is an interesting article which affects anyone who has bought an 04-06 TSX:

http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2007-02-19-odometer-usat_x.htm?POE=NEWISVA

3.75% error on your odometer readings seems awfully high to me......

Has anyone gotten a notice for this (I haven't)? This also got me to thinking - I wonder if this is why my calculated mileage is always about 3-4% lower than what is stated on the MID. I don't know how the MID calculates your mileage, but it seems like it might be a running summation of the instantaneous mileage. Maybe the MID is correct, and my odometer is wrong?

kyfdx

Article states that it covers Acuras and Hondas purchased between 4/13/02 and 11/07/06...

I bought my Honda on 4/05/02..

Figures.. :surprise:

nj2pa2nc

do not feel bad I bought my acura ll/17/06. I was supposed to get it ll/01/06 but could not make it. I live in NC and bought the car in Pa so they had it on their lot. Oh well.

pat

You might be interested in what other community members are saying about it: Honda/Acura Odometer Class Action Suit.

biker4

Unlike that article states I could have sworn I've seen somewhere that while there's no speedo accuracy requirement by the DOT, there is one for the odo of 1%.

johnny420

If you own one of the affected vehicles, you should receive a letter in the mail explaining the suit. Basically involves extending the warranty period miles limit by 5%, or reimbursement for monies spent on repairs that otherwise would've been covered under warranty. :shades:

autoboy16

I'm sorry... I ment pulling as in The Front wheels pull the car. Its a weird feeling that I get when I floor my accord. Same with my sisters Millenia.

RWD make a pushing feeling. My moms miata and dad's expedition (5.4l) makes that feelings. They "Push" you back into your seat.

-Cj

mazcarfan87

I currently drive a 2000 ford taurus where i use a cassette adapter to play my mp3 player through the car speakers, In the next 5 months or so im looking to replace it with a 05 Acura TSX but my question is since a mp3 input wasnt available until 06 models, Does any of the 04-05 models come with a optional cassette player if not then what would be my cheapest best alternative....?

thanks in advance! :shades:

naadinesh

Hi..all, I'm using Honda civic now.And planning to buy 2007 Acura TSX. I stay in Austin TX.Can anybody suggest/help me to get a best deal? One of the dealer offered me a price of 27,347 + TT&L, which comes out to 29,311.18 out the door(auto w/o navigator).Thanks!!!

biker4

FM xmitter.

biker4

You might want to post this in the pricing thread - in some places invoice is a good deal (~26.3K). You should try getting at least another $500 off - tomorrow (end of month) might be the time to make a better deal.

gdoctsx1

I drive a manual TSX. However, I've driven the Auto 2006 TSX a dozen times. I think the power is noticeably better in the 06 from the 05. It feels sharper and more responsive that the 05'. I have a feeling with the rating changes it's up about 10ponies, which makes some difference. I loved the auto. You have to use the tiptronic and make sure you know where the sweet spot is in each gear, but it's very fun to drive. I used 3rd and 4th exclusively on the highway and had a blast with the tiptronic. In fact, I don't notice that much difference with my manual. I got a great deal on my car but would have opted for the auto. You need to push the TSX to get the juice out of it, but when you do, it's very fun. If you want 0-3000 rpm to rip your face off, wrong car. Even the TL is not rip your face off in from 0-3000rpm. Like I've said in other posts, if you want to "win" at the stop lights, grab an 07 g35. If you want some great power in the upper register and fun factor grab a TSX. Get the navigation:) If nothing else, it sure looks cool! :P Kidding..I actually use the thing!!!

frenchv

I have my eyes set on this dark blue TSX at a HOnda dealership, it's fully loaded including Nav. The car seems like it's in good condition, the only thing is that it has 80,000 miles on it.

There is a 5 years pwr train warranty from Honda. They're asking 20k for the car but are willing to sell it for 18k.

Is it risky to buy an 04 with such mileage? :confuse:

johnny420

That is quite a few miles, but only you can decide your comfort level in that regard. I'm not sure why you thought you'd get different answers to this question here than you did over at Acurazine.

Nobody can tell you whether or not to buy a high-mileage car. Only you can decide.

frenchv

I wanted to get as much input as possible and some expertise from TSX drivers.

Thanks for the reply!

mf15

While reading CR's testing of the TSX they give the headlights a poor rating, sharp cutoff and they do not extent out far enough. I have searched this and other forums and there are a few complaints. Can anyone describe their night driving experience in general and in heavy rain.
They tested an 04 automatic. I also wonder if there have been any changes to better lighting between 04-07.
I have taken a test drive during daylight but not at night yet.
Thanks Old Mike

drewba

I drive a TSX in Washington, so many opportunities for dark and rain!

Anyway, I agree that the headlights have a very sharp cutoff. However, I have no complaints on how far they extend, nor do I see the cutoff as a negative thing. If the coverage isn't as good as other cars I've driven, it isn't a significant enough difference for me to notice it.

flats

The lights indeed have a sharp cutoff and a bounce effect. But once I get over the initial shock, I can't imagine driving without them. They have great peripheral vision, and I give them credit for me missing several deer. The cutoff is most noticeable when there are no other sources of light and while going up or down steep hills. I think the lights excel during the snow and rain, it just pierces the elements like a lighthouse.

See if your dealership will allow a nighttime test drive and be sure to take it somewhere 'dark' to get a real feel for them. The interior at night is just so beautiful. Good luck.

mf15

Thanks for the enlightenment. Yes I can take a night test drive. Just need to wait for some rain. Glare is now a problem for me at night. I really love the blue lights on the speedo, but it would be crazy to buy a car based on the nice interior lighting. Or is it in the case of the TSX. Old Mike

151ranch

"I really love the blue lights on the speedo, but it would be crazy to buy a car based on the nice interior lighting."

I don't think you're crazy, DH and I won't buy a car with red lighting in the dash. :P

I have had problems with halos since I had LASIK but the TSX headlights suit me. Then again, this is my first car with HID.

autoboy16

I read about sh-awd. IT IS HEAVY LOOKING!!!

For honda/acura to achieve a better weight distribution, honda should use a center diff.

I think honda should come up with an entirely new AWD system. A normal Haldex system. IT wouldn't be as complicated as sending power in every direction like sh-awd but it would reduce the weight of the vehicles and increase MPG.

This system could be used in the TL, accord, odyssey, tsx, and probably the Pilot. Not standard on these models but an option that saves acura money, us money, and still keeps us happy.

-Cj

autoboy16

The A4 would be considered a great competetor for the TSX right? The A4 has a 200hp turbo, and a 255hp v6.

The Tsx only has the 205hp i-4. IF the Tsx got the turbo and 250hp and 250lb ft of torque, weighed only 3,500lbs, it be lighter than the A4 with more power and that same great handling.

Turbos cant be all bad as shown by BMWs 335i/535i models.

Also if the TSX got the above AWD system as an option, the turbo as an option, and the old alloys back, would it be attractive to anyone plus or minus options?

Last thing!! The RS4 was more fun to drive than the m5!!

-Cj

fedlawman

"IF the Tsx got the turbo and 250hp and 250lb ft of torque, weighed only 3,500lbs, it be lighter than the A4 with more power and that same great handling."

Let's see, an Acura with about 250 HP and weighing about 3500 lbs. I can't put my finger on it, but something feels strangely familiar about this idea...

biker4

Honda spent a bunch of dough developing SH-AWD - I'm sure lots of options were evaluated - they are not going to change direction now. Just like Audi did with Quatro, Honda will market SH-AWD everywhere and put into every Acura and later even some Honda models. AWD typically adds about 100-150 lbs to a car - SH-AWD is no different. Going with some pedestrian system to potentially save 10 lbs was probably an idea that Honda rightly rejected.

autoboy16

2 things...

1. The weight of sh-awd is unknown. I just did the weight of a cr-v and awd drive CR-V. 116lbs for VTM-4. 138lbs for the element but i guess the difference also includes its rear sunroof.

An AWD CR-V weighs 3549 lbs and the RDX is almost 4k lbs even. Then i forgot the RDX's bigger tank, small size difference, and more luxury features.

2. Not all audis use the same AWD. While all are named quattro, they're different. The Q7 and RS4 use the newest quattro that allows them to feel like RWD vehicles. The A4s and A6s use a haldex system with the torsen center differential. The A3 uses the old one thats just the Haldex that detects slippage.

One main difference that places with rough winters may enjoy is that VTM-4 can be locked for the rough stuff. Sh-awd only sends power to the slipping wheel and the whole front to back, side to side, outer wheel thing.

Both do stay FWD until slippage occurs. VTM-4 won't change much from the TSXs great handling but sh-awd would change everything.

Would you rather ATTS, Sh-awd, or VTM-4 for the tsx? Not standard, but as an option.

-Cj

autoboy16

ATTS is ok but it will just add more weight to the front. TSX doesn't need this now.

VTM-4 is more for traction purposes. IMO, the main reason for AWD. Sh-awd is more for sporting. How often do AWD car owners drive on curvy roads?

VTM-4 I am leaning more toward as the better option until the Tl gets more power to need Sh-awd.

Basically VTM-4 as a temporary fix for people who just need AWD and want the current TSX. Who knows right?

Check some posts here for some more in depth explanations of the next TSX,turbo TSX vs v6 vs same engine, and AWD explanations.
-Cj

nyccarguy

not only adds weight, but complexiety down the road. Ask me what it cost to have the clutch replaced on my '01 Prelude Type SH (equipped with ATTS) as opposed to a Base Prelude.

autoboy16

... $2,400? Is the driving experience worth the 2.4k? Atts is just an early version of sh-awd but only to the front wheels.

-Cj

biker4

I wouldn't want any of them - AWDs (of any form) adds very little to most cars in the US. The main reason it's getting more use is that makers like Honda are running into the limitations of FWD in terms of power - it's difficult to put 300+HP to the ground w/ FWD.

AWD in a sedan is mainly a marketing gimick - unless you live in the snow belt or plan to drive off road you don't need AWD. For those situations you need something other than a sedan with better than stock tires.

fedlawman

Agreed. On the track, those AWD Subies and Mitsus are certainly quick, and carry a lot of speed through the corners, but I'm also told they aren't any fun to drive - too easy.

Sure, AWD mitigates many of the FWD vices, but it still lacks the RWD traits that make a Porsche or BMW so entertaining to drive.

And don't forget, unless you're willing to upgrade your suspension and tires with aftermarket components, all new cars, regardless of drivetrain layout, will understeer at the limit.

No, adding AWD to the TSX would do nothing more than weigh down the fun. A little more power, a little more tire, and a styling refresh is pretty much all the TSX needs.

johnny420

Amen to the tires! :shades:

nyccarguy

And don't forget, RWD!

fedlawman

Don't hold your breath.

The day Honda brings a RWD sedan to market, I'll eat a bug.

autoboy16

Porsche(s?) are AWD...

I won't be surprised if we se the "Sports-4" concept at the NY AutoShow. Even a TSX (type-s) should hopefully make an appearance.

Quick thought, if our TSX is their accord, would thie're TSX be our accord... I hope these 2/4 come out around the time to get rid of that potential confusion.

-Cj

fedlawman

"Porsche(s?) are AWD..."

Not the real ones.

autoboy16

what do you mean by "sharp cutoff and bounce effect"

johnny420

The TSX's HID's have a distinct line at the top of the beam, this in order to minimize headlight glare from distracting oncoming traffic. In conditions where ambient light is low, country roads, etc, this can have the effect of making the headlights seem to "bounce" up and down as the car travels over undulations in the road.

It takes a bit of getting used to, but it's not a big deal. The effect is not nearly as noticeable in urban areas. The lights are so good otherwise, that you learn to adapt to it. :shades:

autoboy16

Thanks for the explanation!

Quick question, I haven't driven a TSX let alone at night but I was wondering if the Signal Mirrors are distracting at night. Our Expedition has them but they are at the bottom of the mirror not at eye level.

-Cj

autoboy16

well the TL weighs 3600lbs and has 258/286hp v6s.

A Turbo TSX should get 260hp and 265lb ft of torque to be up there with the Saab 9-3 v6 turbo, A4 v6, MB c350, and Volvo S60 T5. Also it would be right behind the mazdaspeed 6 and ahead of the MKZ.

Those HP amounts will make it more powerful than the 328, C300, is250, and much more than the s40. Give it VTM-4 and you have a great ELLPS.

Its smaller than the TL, with different features, and better MPG. It puts acura where It needs to be... At least for now... Ford has the 3.5lv6 for the x-type and s60, Saab gets a new 9-3 soon, and The C Class could always go up in performance.

-Cj

fedlawman

The ELLPS segment has grown in size and power, and left the TSX behind. The TL is the ONLY Acura ELLPS. I see no reason for Acura to give the TSX the power and curb weight of the TL - the TL is doing just fine, thank you.

No, I think Acura will market the TSX to "up-and-comers" who are shopping for an affordable, entry-level upscale car like the Audi A3 and (soon to be sold here) BMW 1-Series."

Honda will make it perform (FWD, 230HP), build it well (it's a Honda!), make it stylish (it's a Honda?), and sell it cheaper (<$30K well equipped) than the Europeans.

autoboy16

If you read all the TLs complaints and how most want RWD/SH-AWD, and 300+ horsepower to be there with the GS, M45, and 535i/550i ect... Its so chaotic!

The TSX on the other hand is an entry level car. The entry level sedans from the other companies offer 2 engine choices(205-230hp for the base and 250-306 for the second) with most having at least 1 turbo, and optional AWD The TSX could be more competitive.

Also I see space for the TSX wagon as BMW, Audi, Saab, Volvo, Mercedes, and soon Cadillac(BLS) will offer a wagon in the base models.

When I said model the TSX like the A4 (new c300 or 9-3), I meant in terms of power and features. A great 200hp base and optional 255hp v6. The TSX already get 205hp so thats not a problem. Acura has the 2.3l Turbo and It gets 240hp and I'm sure honda can get another 20horses out of it. That puts it with the stronger engines from those other models.

Heck, why can't acura just drop a turbo(or 2) into the current 2.4?

-Cj

autoboy16

On a sidenote, since the TSX in its 4th year and honda/acura try to keep 4-5 year cycles, Maybe we'll see a TSX concept soon...

-Cj

fedlawman

"If you read all the TLs complaints and how most want RWD/SH-AWD, and 300+ horsepower to be there with the GS, M45, and 535i/550i ect... Its so chaotic!"

You make it sound like everyone is complaining about the TL. Well, I have heard of no such complaints.

So if I understand you correctly, Acura should make the next TSX into a TL clone, and the TL should move up to 300HP and SH-AWD?

I have a better idea - why don't they get rid of the current TSX altogether. Honda can just rename the current TL the "gen 2 TSX" so it can be the ELLPS you want it to be. Then Honda can rename the current RL as the "gen 4 TL," and they're done!

biker4

The only "new" news according to Vtec about the next TSX is the launch date:

FMC (Spring '08 launch): A-VTEC, SH-AWD, 2.3 Turbo for TSX(?)

http://www.vtec.net/modelmatrix/

autoboy16

NO NO NO NO you got me all wrong!!

I Think the TL should stay the same(FF) and offer VTM-4 as an option! Everyone was complaining about it being a failure as a FWD sedan and things of that nature in the "TL" room and the "Where is Honda taking Acura?" rooms. The TSX is fine also but should offer the 2.3l turbo as the type-s model with VTM-4 as an option all together.

RL OTOH, needs to be RWD like its competition.

-Cj