NYIAS '08: 2009 Acura TSX

[siegen]

All-New 2009 TSX Makes World Debut at the New York International Auto Show
Press Release - Photo Gallery

03/19/2008 - NEW YORK -

Acura provided a one-two punch with the world debut of the all-new second-generation TSX sports sedan along with the appearance of the redesigned RL luxury performance sedan at the New York International Auto Show today. With new engines, refined drivetrain, and Acura's latest Keen Edge Dynamic styling, the all-new TSX and RL highlight a new direction for Acura sedans.

"With powerful looks and performance, the debut of the new TSX has taken an enthusiastic bite out of the Big Apple," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales. "Besides offering enhanced performance, the 2009 TSX has improved fuel economy, lower emissions, added safety features, and more technology than ever before."

Producing 201 hp from a 2.4-liter engine, the DOHC VTEC® in-line 4-cylinder now delivers its power across a much wider rpm range. Along with more torque, the new 2.4L is also cleaner as it meets EPA TIER 2-BIN 5 and CARB LEV II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle standards.

Merging crisp, dynamic design with a bold new signature Acura grille, the 2009 TSX is more distinctive and sporty. Due to its greater length and width, wider track, and longer wheelbase, the new TSX provides additional interior room while new fully independent front and rear suspension with dual-stage dampers provides more agile handling.

The TSX is equipped with an impressive list of standard equipment which includes a power glass moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, power windows/mirrors/locks, a premium 7-speaker sound system (with CD, AM/FM and XM® Radio), Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, and USB port and AUX jack music interface.

The available Technology Package features leading-edge electronics including the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink® Real-time traffic, Traffic Rerouting™ and AcuraLink® weather. Included in the Technology Package is an audiophiles dream in the form of a 415 watt, 10-speaker Acura/ELS™ Premium Surround Sound System with DVD-Audio designed by Grammy® Award winning producer/engineer Elliot Scheiner.

Designed with an emphasis on safety, the 2009 TSX now makes use of Acura's esteemed Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. The 2009 TSX, with ACE™ and a host of other safety features, is expected to achieve the highest ratings in both governmental (NHTSA)* and independent (IIHS) crash testing - including IIHS's TOP SAFETY PICK.

Also making its first appearance in New York is Acura's new 2009 RL luxury sedan which features bold new styling, an all-new 3.7-liter engine, chassis enhancements and numerous technological upgrades. Performance improves with the 2009 RL thanks to a new 300 horsepower V-6 that incorporates the first ever SOHC use of VTEC® valvetrain actuation for both the intake and exhaust valves. The top-of-the-line Acura furthers cutting edge technology with the addition of new high-tech items including AcuraLink® weather, AcuraLink® Traffic Rerouting™, a new Note function for XM® Radio, Active Sound Control, and Bluetooth® Audio to an already robust list of features found on the previous RL. To enhance handling, new chassis technology abounds in the form of enhanced Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™, a revised steering system, firmer coil springs, better performing shock absorbers, larger rear stabilizer bar, and larger wheels and tires.

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles through a network of 268 dealers within the United States. The Acura lineup features five distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the turbocharged RDX luxury crossover SUV and the award-winning MDX luxury sport utility vehicle. For additional information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries, please visit www.acuranews.com.

*Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Safety claims based on internal test results.

[PurdueGuy]

lol the little kickup at the nose end of the headlights immediately make me think of the Saturn Ion sedan headlights.

It's ok, but I'm not getting excited about the look.

[Z-06]

As a previous gen TSeX owner, I am disappointed in this vehicle. I want to like it, but I cannot.

Sure it may be a great handler, but please do not put performance in the same vein as looks and list of features, as it is not a performance machine.

[siegen]

Sure it may be a great handler, but please do not put performance in the same vein as looks and list of features, as it is not a performance machine.

I think the BMW and Audi drivers in the speed world challenge would disagree. :AH-HA_wink:

There is likely a high performance version coming soon. Honda spokespeople have hinted at it, but obviously cannot say yes for sure. From what I've heard at various places, I wouldn't be too surprised if the car receives something like a 3.0L V6. In fact I would almost be surprised if it didn't. It is several inches wider than the TSX it replaces, fitting the V6 shouldn't be a problem what-so-ever. The new TL will probably base with a 3.5L, so the 3.0L would by no means step on any toes. And depending on how far they want to take it, the 3.0L J-series V6 could pump out 250-260hp fairly easily.

Overall I like the styling changes, however I do not find them particularly exciting. It could definitely use a little more flare on the front end. But perhaps Acura is holding off until the high performance trim.

The rear of the car is quite nice. I love the integrated trunk lip as opposed to a spoiler, much classier.

Edited March 19, 2008 by siegen

[Z-06]

I think the BMW and Audi drivers in the speed world challenge would disagree. :AH-HA_wink:

If you are talking to the European drivers of Audi and BMW then for them even a 125hp engine is like Ashley Alexandra Dupre. Not here we need power and handling.

[Cory Wolfe]

I love this car. I'll tell you why... It gives me alot to bitch about. The front fascia is a complete failure, the rear fascia has far too many random lines, the wheels look overly small, the wheel flares are too big and flat, and the body is essentially the same. This car is a mess. It's not understated like the previous TSX, it's not beautiful like the TL... Even the RL (before the botched face lift) is a better looking car.

[Northstar]

I love this car. I'll tell you why... It gives me alot to bitch about. The front fascia is a complete failure, the rear fascia has far too many random lines, the wheels look overly small, the wheel flares are too big and flat, and the body is essentially the same. This car is a mess. It's not understated like the previous TSX, it's not beautiful like the TL... Even the RL (before the botched face lift) is a better looking car.

QFT. Interior looks pretty nice, but the rest is complete crap.

[loki]

ion meets accord? haha... eh... only thing that kinda interests me is a 200+ hp 4 cyl, but only in what makes it that powerful and seeing a power curve for it.

the "300 horsepower V-6 that incorporates the first ever SOHC use of VTEC® valvetrain actuation for both the intake and exhaust valves." ..i'd like to see a curve for that too.. and would this be kinda like the viper's VVT system, not in the capabilities, but how it's put together.

[SuperSport623]

EWWW!

[regfootball]

gives those who think the 4 cyl accords look too cheap, something to buy.

[Lamar]

I love this car. I'll tell you why... It gives me alot to bitch about. The front fascia is a complete failure, the rear fascia has far too many random lines, the wheels look overly small, the wheel flares are too big and flat, and the body is essentially the same. This car is a mess. It's not understated like the previous TSX, it's not beautiful like the TL... Even the RL (before the botched face lift) is a better looking car.

Now tell us how you REALLY feel...

[CSpec]

Yawwwwwwwn. Total lack of innovation and creativity in its design.

[2chevs]

It looks too much like the Civic.

[VenSeattle]

I have nowhere near the objections to the new TSX as I did to the original one. I wish Buick had a similar compact sedan but in a warmer/more inviting package.

[Z-06]

Here is the Car and Driver review for TSX. They seem to love it. And so does Edmunds with reservations.

I just wished the car had about 30-40 HP more than the outgoing one. The new one has added about 160 lb of girth.

[siegen]

Here is the Car and Driver review for TSX. They seem to love it. And so does Edmunds with reservations.

I just wished the car had about 30-40 HP more than the outgoing one. The new one has added about 160 lb of girth.

Motor Trend and Road and Track are also positive (although I can't seem to find the Road and Track test drive anymore).

They should have launched with an optional 3.0L V6. Car needs some weight trimming too.

Edited March 20, 2008 by siegen

[Intrepidation]

Here is the Car and Driver review for TSX. They seem to love it. And so does Edmunds with reservations.

I just wished the car had about 30-40 HP more than the outgoing one. The new one has added about 160 lb of girth.

I dunno about edmunds...

When playing it safe is applied to automotive product planning, as it has been with the 2009 Acura TSX, it means the vehicle's sales will continue to linger at steadily mediocre levels and reviews like this one will continue to remain graciously lukewarm. When the biggest news to report is a stiffer chassis, more hiproom and an optional ELS sound system, you can pretty much guess how this story is going to end.

Call it what you will, underdeveloped placeholder in the Acura lineup, badge engineering of car meant for a different market, or the right car at the wrong time, the 2009 Acura TSX plays it down the middle. It's the safe choice, but maybe not the right one.

[Z-06]

I dunno about edmunds...

I that is why I said with reservations. I agree with edmunds (a rarity) that TSX is few ponies short. It should have been at least about 230hp, that would have made a good case of buying it against the 328i, or C300. Old TSX was a different animal, when it came it had one of the most powerful engines in the category, but the competition has moved on.

This logic of having a fully loaded car at anemic horsepowers will work in Europe, but not here. Why should I chose a 69hp less four banger for a price of a V-6 which almost matches it in equipments? (Mid Size Camcords I mean).

[regfootball]

c'mon, edmunds RIPPED the new tsx.