2005 TSX: best value in its class

The 2005 Acura TSX is no RSX in handling, or TL when it comes to luxury; but it strikes hard where some automotive critics claim it lags far behind: BMW's top selling 3-series line-up. I was personally in the market for a 325i until I visited Acura's web site -- and was sold on the TSX instantaneously. The list of features is extensive and everything is standard except for the GPS Navigation System.

The 2005 TSX is very similar to the 2004 model. The main differences include power seats for both driver and passenger, XM satellite radio, and heated side-view mirrors. It still lacks an MP3 player, a popular feature in the newest models. An Acura MP3 player is a $500 option, but you might be able to negotiate the dealer to give it to you for free.

I own a 2004 model, and reliability has been excellent. The 2005 model should be even better, as the little bugs should have been resolved by now.

Visit Honda’s web site for the United Kingdom to compare features between the American and British model. Note that there’s more in the specifications than the gallery shows.

:-: Options :-:

Both 6-speed manual and automatic transmission models share the same price. The only option available on the TSX at this time is the $2,000 Navigation System. Of course, accessories such as gold-plated emblems, license plates, key rings, etc. also exist.

I highly recommend the Navigation System! There is no monthly fee, and the vehicle keeps track of its location through a 24-satellite Global Position System maintained by the United States government. Based on experience, it is accurate within + or - 25 feet.

:-: Navigation System Features :-:

- 8” LCD screen
- Touch screen
- DVD-based and upgradeable with a new DVD sold by Alpine
- Database includes entire U.S.A. (lower 48 states)
- Includes business addresses and phones, all major highways, streets, and points of interest (i.e. Disneyworld, Statue of Liberty, stadiums, etc.). Finding a gas station is easy! It even indicates what brand is which on the map.
- Voice activated controls, with male or female voice feedback

:-: Cool Features I like about the TSX :-:

- 17" 7-spoke wheels with Michelin Pilot tires (some models feature Dunlops)
- 360-watt sound system with 8 speakers, separate amp, and 6-CD in dash changer
- 4-wheel disk brakes with ABS
- Automatic preset of radio stations: 12 FM and 6 AM, or manual setting
- Big and medium size cup holders are in front of the center console; out of the way from stereo and air controls
- Blue lighting throughout the cabin, using bulbs and LEDs
- Center console has a coin holder and 12-volt power outlet for cell phone or other toys
- Dual climate control
- Fast reacting cruise control
- Headlights turn OFF automatically after you leave the vehicle, so the battery will not drain if you forget them on
- Heated seats (you can feel it after 1-3 minutes)
- Home Link Wireless Control of up to 3 garage doors
- Ignition switch light (no scratching around)
- Leather is standard feature, not optional
- Moonroof (up/down and slide)
- Navigation System updates clock as you travel across different regions of the country (and it keeps it "on time")
- Outside temperature gauge (on front bumper)
- Place to hold sunglasses & keep them from getting scratched
- Rear air vents for feet
- Sliding center console armrest reaches up to you
- SportShift mode in automatic transmission responds very fast (compared to recent Audi/VW Tiptronic models that lag a bit)
- Steering wheel buttons for cruise control, audio volume, CD/FM/AM mode, and navigation voice commands
- Vehicle Stability Assistance traction control (comes on to avoid spinning the tires)
- Very fast, quiet, and effective A/C
- Voice-activated navigation, AC, stereo, trip computer, and other features
- Trip computer resets automatically after each refuel (driver can turn off and reset at any time)
- Upper display provides resume of audio, air, and time when LCD screen is turned OFF and for faster & easier access to important information
- Xenon lights spread over 3 lanes on each side and illuminate the road like daylight (well, almost). I love them and highly recommend the extra cost (standard on the TSX).

In addition, mileage in this vehicle has been higher than expected for a 200 HP 2.4-liter engine: 32 mpg highway and 25 mpg 50% hwy / 50% city.

:-: Features Missing in Action :-:

- A more powerful subwoofer: 6" x 9" speakers in the rear don’t have much punch
- Auto-leveling xenon lights: big safety feature standard on most models with HID systems (standard on 2007 MDX)
- Automatic up and down on passenger window: VW and Audi models have this standard, makes closing vehicle easier and faster
- Daytime Running Lights (only standard on Canadian models)
- Keys and remote should be one unit, like VW, Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, and others
- Lighting on steering wheel buttons: Where is the cruise button? (in the dark)
- Lock tabs on doors should lock at 10 mph; and unlock automatically when driver and passengers pull on handle (standard on TL, VW models)
- Lock tabs on doors should be recessed so driver and passengers can place arm on door (standard on VW models)
- Low fuel buzzer: keeps me from walking home!
- More options on voice tone on navigation system (more sensual perhaps?)
- MP3 Player ($500 option)
- One-touch moonroof control: less time hand is away from steering wheel
- Sun visors have no extensions to hide sun at odd angles

If you noticed all the references to Audi and VW, it’s because I used to drive a 1999 New Jetta GLS. My mom also owned a 2000 A6, my brother a 2003 GTI, and my dad a 2000 Golf GLS. We also own a 1996 4Runner -- the most reliable of the bunch.

:-: Performance :-:

As I mentioned earlier, the TSX has an i-VTEC engine with 200 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque. The engine has enough power to spin both FWD tires on the very high first gear, even with the automatic transmission. I’ve been learning how to prevent this as it certainly wears down the tires. (My 2.0-liter Jetta never spun both tires off the line.)

In terms of driving, the horsepower is enough to reach 145 mph (electronically limited) with the Z-rated tires (150 mph); however I have not tried anything like it. I just read about other people’s experience in their TSX (see sources at the bottom). If you are caught going over 100 in California, you are arrested for reckless driving and given 2 points on your record.

While the car I drove has an automatic transmission, I have been able to redline the engine while in SS mode. This is rare, however, and usually only goes for about 200-300 RPM past the line before the transmission shifts gears.

Passing is easy and changing lanes very secure. The TSX takes freeway on ramps and off ramps of 270 degrees at 35-40 mph and remains flat on the ground, with very small roll. I’ve never heard the tires make a hint of noise or slip up.

Under steering is not substantial on the TSX.

:-: Comfort :-:

The TSX is very comfortable, especially in the driver’s seat. The adjustable lumbar support keeps my back where it wants to be, the side supports -- though not as good as in the GTI -- allow me to maintain control of the car in every turn, and the adjustable (telescope and tilting) steering wheel makes finding a good position easy. Other adjustments -- height, sliding, and rear seat tilt -- are electric powered.

Visibility is hindered a little by the large center mirror, yet I love how it dims automatically when headlights strike it at night. It really works!

All the lights on the instrument cluster remain ‘on’ whatever the time of day, ensuring all the important information is always easy to read and readily available. I specially like the white, red, and blue colors. They remind me of the setup used in Audi’s and VW’s.

In the rear, there are two pockets for storage, two cup holders, and a center armrest. It fits three, but lacks a center seat head rest.

Furthermore, the rear seatbacks fold down in 40/60 fashion. The extra space is gravely reduced by the two extensions from the side of the vehicle that prevent wide objects from being fully accommodated. My full-suspension bike by GT, for example, fits in but is suspended in the air by the extensions. I’m saving money to buy a roof rack.

In addition to the extensions, both seatbacks don’t fold down all the way. I’m not sure why that’s the case seeing as the European model has fully-reclining seatbacks.

:-: Safety :-:

Regarding safety, the features speak for themselves:

- 4-wheel ABS
- Front airbags
- Side airbags (on seats)
- Side curtain airbags, extends all the way to rear seats
- Vehicle Stability Assistance traction control

The NHTSA gave 5 stars to the TSX on its front collision test, and 5 and 4 stars for its side collision test for front and rear passengers, respectively. You can read about it here:
http://www.safercar.gov/NCAP/Cars/2642.html

:-: Conclusion :-:

I've driven my 2004 model for 47,000 miles and find it the most comfortable and fun car I’ve ever had. I'm certain the 2005 model is equally awesome!

:-: Sources :-:

Acura
http://www.acura.com

Acura UK
http://www.acura.tk

Automotive Engineering, November 1998
http://dwolsten.tripod.com/articles/nov98.html

Club TSX Forum (requires free membership to write)
http://www.acura-tsx.com