The Acura TSX, a compact executive car, made its debut in the North American market in 2003 as a 2004 model year vehicle. Known for its sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and value proposition in the luxury segment, the TSX quickly became a popular choice among entry-level luxury car buyers. The model went through two generations before being discontinued in 2014, when it was effectively replaced by the Acura TLX.
First Generation (2004-2008)
The first-generation Acura TSX was based on the European and Japanese market Honda Accord (known as the CL series). It featured a 2.4-liter inline-four engine producing 200 horsepower, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. This generation was praised for its handling, high-revving engine, and well-appointed interior. Key features included:
In 2006, the TSX received a minor facelift, which included a revised front fascia, updated taillights, and a bump in horsepower to 205.
Second Generation (2009-2014)
The second-generation TSX debuted for the 2009 model year, growing slightly in size and offering more interior space. It continued with the 2.4-liter inline-four as the base engine, now producing 201 horsepower. Notable changes and additions included:
Interesting facts about the Acura TSX:
Throughout its production, the Acura TSX built a reputation for combining sports sedan handling with luxury car features at a competitive price point. Its discontinuation in 2014 marked the end of an era for Acura's compact luxury offerings, but its legacy lives on in the driving dynamics and value proposition of subsequent Acura models.
The cost of an Acura TSX varies significantly depending on factors such as model year, condition, mileage, and specific trim level. Since the TSX was discontinued after the 2014 model year, all examples are now available only on the used car market. Here's a general overview of Acura TSX pricing:
These price ranges can fluctuate based on several factors:
It's worth noting that the Acura TSX has maintained a reputation for reliability, which can contribute to slightly higher resale values compared to some competitors. Additionally, well-preserved, low-mileage examples of the final model years (2013-2014) or desirable configurations (such as V6 models with manual transmissions) may command prices at or above the top of these ranges.
When considering the purchase of a used Acura TSX, it's always recommended to have a professional inspection performed to ensure the vehicle's condition matches its asking price.
As the Acura TSX was discontinued after the 2014 model year, it is no longer possible to purchase a brand new TSX from an Acura dealership. The TSX has been replaced in Acura's lineup by the TLX model. However, for historical context and to understand the model's positioning in the market, we can look at the pricing of the TSX when it was last available new.
In its final year of production (2014), the Acura TSX had a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of approximately:
The actual price of a new TSX could vary based on several factors:
It's important to note that these prices are historical and do not reflect current market values. Today, buyers interested in a new Acura sedan similar to the TSX would look at the current TLX model, which combines elements of both the TSX and the larger TL in a more modern package.
For those specifically interested in the TSX's combination of compact size, sporty handling, and luxury features, exploring well-maintained used examples or considering the current Acura ILX or TLX models might be good alternatives in the new car market.
The cost of a used Acura TSX can vary widely based on factors such as model year, mileage, condition, and specific trim level. Here's a more detailed breakdown of used Acura TSX prices by generation:
Second Generation (2009-2014):
First Generation (2004-2008):
Factors influencing the price of a used Acura TSX include:
It's important to note that these prices are general guidelines and can fluctuate based on market conditions. As these cars age, finding a well-maintained example becomes increasingly important and can significantly affect the price. Buyers should consider the following when looking at used TSX models:
As with any used car purchase, it's recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to ensure the vehicle's condition matches its asking price and to identify any potential issues that may affect its value or reliability.