Honda has finally addressed a big issue with the Acura TSX, a lack of power with a new more powerful engine. It's not the small turbocharged engine from the RDX that would have been fun, but instead the 2010 TSX will now have an optional 3.5L V6.
The 2010 Acura TSX will now be available with a 280 horsepower 3.5L V6, which is most likely the same 3.5L offered in the Accord. When you check off the V6 option box you also get new 18" wheels, a slightly revised front fascia and a retuned suspension.
Unfortunately the TSX is still not available with the SH-AWD system that's offered on the TL and RL.
Acura claims that the 2010 TSX is the first of many changes for the 2010 model year, Acura plans on revising all of its models for the new year.
PRESS RELEASE:
2010 Acura TSX V-6 Debuts at Chicago Auto Show
More Powerful TSX Blows into the Windy City
CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 - Acura debuted an all-new V-6 model for its TSX sports sedan line-up at the Chicago Auto Show today. Scheduled to go on sale this summer, the 2010 TSX V-6 will be equipped with a powerful 3.5-liter engine, exclusive suspension tuning, larger diameter wheels and additional enhancements.
"The automotive market may be slowing down, but not Acura," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With improved acceleration and handling, the new 280 horsepower V-6 adds even more sport to the already sporty nature of the popular TSX sports sedan."
Since its redesign last year, the TSX has shattered sales records to become one of Acura's best-selling sedans. As the entry point to the Acura brand, the four-cylinder TSX has won over customers with its nimble handling, agile driving feel and balanced performance. The V-6 model adds a new level of power on top of these winning traits for a more sporty and spirited driving experience. The V-6 will surely satisfy driving enthusiast's appetite for a fun-to-drive, yet refined sports sedan.
With the introduction of a V-6 powered TSX, Acura will fill a niche in its lineup between the four-cylinder TSX and the all-new TL performance luxury sedan. With the TL moving more upscale following its redesign in the 2009 model year, the TSX V-6 will be aimed squarely at youthful buyers who want a performance-oriented sports sedan in a more personal size.
Powertrain
A new TSX powertrain choice means performance luxury buyers can enjoy a 280 horsepower 3.5L V-6, with sophisticated VTEC® valvetrain control and a dual-stage induction system. For maximum performance and efficiency, the engine will be coupled to Acura's Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, with intelligent features such as Grade Logic Control and Shift Hold Control. If the driver desires, the Sequential SportShift transmission can also be operated manually, via steering-wheel mounted F1®-style paddle shifters.
Body/Chassis
The new TSX model will feature a state-of-the-art, double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension system to provide excellent ride, handling and control. To generate sportier handling, the V-6 model will also use exclusive suspension tuning along with 18-inch split five-spoke aluminum wheels, fit with Michelin Pilot all-season tires. The larger wheels and tires will help distinguish this performance- minded TSX, as does the slightly revised front fascia and a V-6 badge on the trunk.
The TSX V-6 model will be generously equipped with the latest advancements in safety technology and is anticipated to achieve the highest ratings in both government (NHTSA)* and independent (IIHS) crash testing - including garnering IIHS's TOP SAFETY PICK.
Interior
Like all Acura models, the new TSX will feature an exceptional level of standard equipment, including leather-appointed interior, power moonroof, automatic climate control, a premium seven-speaker sound system with CD, AM/FM tuner, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® , USB port and AUX jack music interface and more.
Similar to the four-cylinder TSX, the V-6 model will be available with the optional Technology Package that includes the Acuralink™ satellite navigation system with rear-view camera and the Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system for a top-in-class audio experience.
The introduction of the TSX V-6 at the Chicago Auto Show is the first step in a series of major advancements to the 2010 Acura lineup. Almost every Acura sedan and SUV will receive significant enhancements for the 2010 model year.
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Comments (14)
I wonder if that 6 will have any torque steer...
Posted by Jung | February 11, 2009 5:05 PM
Posted on February 11, 2009 17:05
This is like a replay of 15 years ago. Honda was too stubborn to put a V6 in its Accord in the 90s insisting that its 4cyl was just as good. 15 years later. They're at it again... with the competition way of ahead of them and the drive wheels at the wrong end of the car.
Posted by poo | February 11, 2009 8:09 PM
Posted on February 11, 2009 20:09
Front Wheel Drive is great fun... in a supermini hatchback! In a full-size sedan or coupe, the power must go to the rear wheels, especially when you are pumping nearly 300hp, STOCK. I cannot imagine this car with modifications... the torque steer would be horrendous.
Seriously, Acura. You must offer at least All-Wheel Drive. You cannot compete with BMW, Lexus, or Infinity if your drivetrain is not even the same layout. Big power must not go through the front wheels. Come on...
Posted by Joan of Arc | February 11, 2009 11:10 PM
Posted on February 11, 2009 23:10
I just test drove a 4 cylinder TSX. It was by no means fast, but certainly quick enough for what the average person needs. They could have just kept the TSX a small car, it's just a slightly smaller TL now. What's the point of the TSX anymore?
Neither car looks good anymore, the old ones were awesome.
Posted by bobby | February 12, 2009 4:17 AM
Posted on February 12, 2009 04:17
Well like they said, what's wrong with the 2.3L turbo and awd setup from the RDX?
Or would that hurt TL sales?...
Posted by Brian | February 12, 2009 5:26 AM
Posted on February 12, 2009 05:26
The 2.3L turbo is a bad engine. It makes 240 hp and gets 17/22 in a vechicle that weighs 3900 lbs. The AWD TL does 17/25 with 305 hp and the same 3900 lbs curb weight. Makes no sense to use the 2.3L turbo, less power, less gas mileage.
Posted by Avatar | February 12, 2009 6:49 AM
Posted on February 12, 2009 06:49
Can someone please teach Acura how to make a RWD car! SH-AWD is better than FWD for torque steer, but it's a heavy, complicated system.
That being said, the TSX needed more power, and I'm glad it's available in a bigger engine, for the same reasons as Avatar.
Posted by Paul | February 12, 2009 8:47 AM
Posted on February 12, 2009 08:47
@Avatar:
Correct you are. The K23T has been a joke of an engine since it came out due to it's horrid MPG and lack of top end power. Individual tuners have gotten better results from slapping a turbo kit on a standard K20 than Honda could muster with all their engineering know how.
Posted by Gary | February 12, 2009 9:41 AM
Posted on February 12, 2009 09:41
Honda/Acura does not need to try anymore. They believe they are in good for the long haul.
I had a '09 TSX as a loaner and I can honestly say it is a piece of crap.
Horrid ride, very rough and loose...
Too much outside noise, cheap materials inside.
The list can go on and on...
The v6 version might help with the noise, but they need more insulation to quiet the road noise.
Posted by Andrew | February 12, 2009 10:25 AM
Posted on February 12, 2009 10:25
@Andrew:
I believe that the TSX is based on the Euro Accord, which is a very popular car. I didn't find the TSX loose or rough when I drove one last month (I manage a large fleet, so I get to test drive a LOT of new cars). I would say it was firm, particularly for the roads around here. It handled well, but was more peppy than sporty. The build quality was typical Acura in my books, well put together, small gaps between panels etc. I thought that the outside noise was decent, and the amount of noise from the engine when I floored it was appropriate for a sports sedan.
I'm curious if you think you got a lemon loaner, or I got a ringer (which manufacturers have done to me before).
Posted by Paul | February 12, 2009 12:42 PM
Posted on February 12, 2009 12:42
The previous TSX was based on the European Honda Accord. Frankly, I think many of you guys have this completely wrong. The new TSX is a great car. The styling is appealing and the standard four banger is great for most people. The addition of the V-6 gives buyers even more options on this nice auto. Have you guys wondered why this is the best selling TSX to date? I guess people are buying it like hot-cakes because they don't like it - right? Duh. The price of the car is attractive and the content is right. Great job, Acura!
Posted by John C | February 13, 2009 7:12 AM
Posted on February 13, 2009 07:12
What the fuck is this?? A Jetta!!!!!
Posted by Jim B | February 14, 2009 6:35 AM
Posted on February 14, 2009 06:35
@Paul,
I like the look of the TSX, I really hope the V6 will resolve some of the noise issues.
The use of hard plastic in the car is also a problem for me as it looks too much like my Hybrid Civic..
Posted by Andrew | February 15, 2009 6:06 PM
Posted on February 15, 2009 18:06
@Paul,
I like the look of the TSX, I really hope the V6 will resolve some of the noise issues.
The use of hard plastic in the car is also a problem for me as it looks too much like my Hybrid Civic..
As far as John's comment on price, Acura needed to adapt the V6 into it as the new TL is way over priced now!
Posted by Andrew | February 15, 2009 6:07 PM
Posted on February 15, 2009 18:07