This year Acura has introduced radical new body styling changes to the TSX and other models to counter their conservative image, including an incredibly loud new metallic grille (dubbed the guillotine grille), flared fenders and a more aggressive look overall. This has attracted Acura perhaps more than its fair share of criticism, given the simultaneous upgrades in performance, space and technology of their ever-popular TSX mid-sized sedan which is varied only slightly to be a Honda Accord in European markets.
Power is much the same in this year’s TSX, with its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine adequate but not over-the-top, and churning out a few less hp than last year at 201hp. However the engine is now direct fuel injected and with a higher compression ratio, producing 172 pounds-feet of torque, up on last year. It comes with six-speed manual transmission or five-speed automatic transmission which also carries paddle shifters on the steering wheel for a more hands-on driving experience.
The new Electric Power Steering has been criticised for being too loose and unresponsive, and in performance driving there is no doubt that the steering, brakes, acceleration and body roll leave much to be desired. But the Acura TSX is not designed as a performance vehicle – it is happiest in urban driving situations, and here it shines with all the power and performance needed. Acura claims the EPS has also improved the fuel economy which is pretty good at 21/30mpg city/highway in the manual and 20/28mpg city/highway for the manual. This is helped by the new inside frame rails that improve aerodynamics and fuel economy. Additionally, emissions have been reduced thanks to the new VTEC variable-valve timing on the exhaust valve as well as the intake valve.
2009 Acura TSX Interior/ Exterior
The new TSX has grown by 2.4 inches in length, 3 inches in width and 1.3 inches in wheelbase which has not only made a difference to the handling, but also the cabin and storage space which is now an efficient 12.5 cubic meters.
Acura specializes in technology and this year’s TSX is no exception with lots of new features to give the gadget-freaks hours of enjoyment. For the first time there is the ability to charge and play your iPod through the seven-speaker sound system as a standard feature plus Bluetooth phone connectivity. However upgrading to the Technology Package is well worth it for the hard-drive navigation system and AcuraLink live weather and traffic forecasts from XM NavWeather, displayed on a high-resolution VGA screen. You also get an awesome 440-watt surround sound system with 10 speakers, DVD-Audio and Satellite Radio with its own 13GB hard drive to store your CDs. All that for less than $35,000? It is clear to see why Acura carries the reputation for quality as well as value for money.
2009 Acura TSX Safety
Safety is always a strong point for Acura, and this 2009 TSX has a new roof system with cross-bracing that improves the rigidity plus the Advanced Compatability Engineering (ACE) which disperses the impact from a head-on crash through the load-bearing frame. There is also a new Active Headrest Restraint System standard in all models and the full contingent of six airbags throughout the vehicle for maximum protection.
- Electronic Stability Control
- Traction Control
- Daytime running lights
- Energy Management Features
- 4-Wheel ABS
- Auto-Dimming rearview mirrors
- Side and Head airbags
- Child seat lower anchorage
- Tire pressure monitor
- Rear camera
The new 2009 TSX is Acura’s introductory sedan and is probably not what you would call a true luxury car, but thanks to significant improvements in performance, safety, looks and technology this year, it is giving the other cars in the class like the Audi A4 and Saab 9-3 a run for their money.