Review: 2009 Acura TSX

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Under the Hood

Acura has long been known for deriving the most power possible from relatively small engines. Consider that, to date, Acura is the only brand in the premium/luxury segment without a V-8 anywhere in its lineup. Therefore, it's not surprising to discover that the TSX, Acura's entry-level vehicle, comes to market with a high-revving four-cylinder engine which delivers performance comparable to some of its competitors' small V-6s.

At the heart of the front-wheel-drive 2009 Acura TSX is a 2.4-liter four-banger that reaches redline at 7,100 rpm and features i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Timing and lift Control) and direct injection. Output registers 201 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm when mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and a sport mode; go with a six-speed manual for the same price and you'll be working with slightly more torque – 172 lb.-ft. The EPA suggests that you'll see 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway if you're shifting your own gears or 20/28 if your TSX is equipped with the five-speed auto. Premium is the fuel of choice.

The powertrain propels a four-door sedan that rides on a double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, while an updated rack-and-pinion unit has been designed to limit torque steer and electronic brake assistance works with four-wheel antilock disc brakes – ventilated up front – to slow things down.