The TSX is a mid-size sports sedan from Acura that debuted in 2003. Until recently, it was only available with a moderately powerful 4-cylinder engine. In 2010, however, Acura wedged a potent V6 into the engine bay of the cut and chiseled 4-door, and it’s this expressive mill that powers my tester. But as the saying goes, “beauty before brawn,” so let’s talk style and design.
Sorry Miranda, you’re wrong
Earlier this season, my Auto123.com colleague, Miranda Lightstone, reviewed the 2011 TSX propelled by the 4-cylinder powerplant. What really caught my attention in Miranda’s review wasn’t her praise for the vehicle’s spirited handling and sportiness, but rather it was her disdain for the styling of the TSX that raised my eyebrows.
I believe she referenced the need to close one’s eyes when getting into the TSX due to its alien-bred front grille and other distasteful design cues. I take the opposing view. Eyes wide open, I say, in order that the symmetry, harmonious lines and proper proportioning of the TSX can be appreciated.
I happen to admire the fact that the TSX projects a clean, uncluttered exterior design; something not often embraced by Japanese auto manufacturers. Contrary to Miranda’s rant, I see nothing old or unpleasant about the appearance of the 2011 TSX. Over the years, this “fun to drive” sports sedan has sharpened its edges and evolved with the times while maintaining its basic shape and size – and that’s all good in my view.
Perhaps the cabin design and layout is where Miranda and I can find some common ground.
Attractive, well executed cabin
A point both Miranda and I agree on is the attractiveness and quality of the TSX’s cabin, which is full of buttons but works well nonetheless. Fortunately, Acura has resisted the lure of packaging a multitude of functions into a mouse-like controller – and that’s a refreshing find in an upscale ride.
I’m particularly fond of Acura seats and ergonomics, both of which the TSX effectively exemplifies. The front perches are snug fitting yet firm and supportive. Visibility from the driver’s locale is expansive and for the most part unimpeded.
The cabin setup and its cluster of buttons requires some time to become truly familiar with but if you’re a button puncher, such as I am, the “getting to know you phase” won’t take long. Once accustomed to the bells and whistles, the true pleasure of the TSX V6 can be discovered.
V6 power and refinement redefine the TSX
Displacing 3.5 litres, the optional SOHC V6 engine produces 280 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm and 254 pound-feet of torque @ 5,000 rpm. These are healthy numbers for such a small, lightweight sedan; the sum of which transforms the normally brisk TSX into a blazing ride.
Perhaps more enjoyable than the wealth of power generated by the big-boy engine is its delightful degree of operational refinement. The powerplant is wonderfully smooth and creamy during normal driving inputs but takes on a genteel, deep growl when pushed.
There’s plenty of torque on tap at most any speed, which is a pleasing attribute of the V6 over the 2.4L engine that typically powers the TSX. Both engines utilize a 5-speed automatic, which can be controlled via shift paddles.
The autobox, which features a sport mode, worked flawlessly but it’s not a sophisticated double-clutch affair, and with only five cogs to spin it’s becoming a little dated when stacked against the more typical six and seven gears of other offerings in the premium market.
However, it wasn’t the limited cluster of cogs that I most quarreled with; it was the torque-steer that crept in when the engine was called upon to show its mettle. The TSX is strictly a front-wheel drive sedan, so there’s no escaping the devil by opting for AWD.
It should be noted, though, that the devil’s appearance is not a dealbreaker by any stretch. The symptoms can be easily managed once anticipated and accounted for; besides, the many other fine qualities of this V6-powered TSX more than makeup for the detraction.
Ride and handling please and inspire
Place the torque-steer issue on the shelf for now while I provide some quick thoughts on ride and handling. Finding the balance between these two dynamics is a difficult proposition, especially when the vehicle isn’t equipped with a programmable suspension that enables the driver to select from several settings intended to emphasize ride or handling characteristics.
Despite the lack of settings, Acura has honed the underpinnings of the TSX to capture the best of both worlds. This compact sedan delivers a notably controlled and composed ride in which the driver feels connected to the roadway but not punished by it.
The return for being “in-touch” with the road surface is the sort of handling capability one expects from a sports sedan; and in this case, it’s a car that’s lively and light on its rubber. As such, the TSX is a sure-footed ride that embraces driver enthusiasm while responding with confidence and athleticism.
It’s also worth mentioning that the TSX is by design, a quiet vehicle. Road and wind noises are capably managed, enhancing the overall driving experience
Wrapping the V6 TSX
Whether seeking-out curvy backroads or performing the daily grind to work and back, the TSX V6 Technology provides its occupants with much to admire while delivering rewarding driving characteristics. The car has always been one of my preferred mid-size sedans thanks to its refinement and spirited disposition.
The addition of the V6 engine really takes this vehicle to a new level; one that’s a little higher up the performance and refinement food chain. It’s not inexpensive though. The V6 Tech model – as tested – is pegged at $43,785.
