2013 Acura TSX Road Test and Review: Engine and Fuel Economy
What’s New:
- No changes for 2013
Acura offers two different engines for the TSX, a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V-6. The V-6 is available only for the TSX Sedan, and only in exchange for thousands of extra dollars.
The standard 4-cylinder engine is peppy enough, providing 201 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,300 rpm (172 lb.-ft. with the optional manual transmission). If these figures appear to be unimpressive, keep in mind that a TSX weighs less than 3,500 pounds. Also, Acura gears the standard 5-speed automatic transmission to take best advantage of the powertrain, and during my week with the car, it rarely felt underpowered.
Acura recommends, but does not require, that premium fuel is used with this engine. The TSX’s EPA fuel economy ratings are 22 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, and 26 mpg in combined driving. I achieved 26 mpg in a mix of city and highway travel.
The TSX Sedan’s optional 3.5L V-6 generates 280 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 254 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm. Considering that the TSX V-6 weighs just 201 pounds more than a base TSX, you’ll understand when I tell you that the 79 extra ponies and 84 extra lb.-ft. of torque utterly transform the TSX, turning it into a rocket. Unfortunately, there is a steep price premium to pay for the added velocity.
Acura says that premium fuel is required for the V-6 engine, which is rated to get 19 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg in combined driving.