2008 New York Auto Show: 2009 Acura TSX

Acura is talking up its second generation TSX sedan as a larger, more responsive and better looking vehicle. Coming in time for the 2009 model year, the TSX is indeed improved, but from the New York Auto Show floor, appears only marginally so.

The Acura TSX is a tale of two Hondas: Bad Honda sells a slightly changed version of the European Honda Accord as an up-market Acura because, well, they’re just not sure...then there’s the Good Honda, the one that develops Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) and builds fun-to-drive cars, with cutting-edge features.

So...which Honda brings us this TSX? A bit of both, actually. Bad Honda: It’s a derivative of the European Accord and lacks needed power upgrades. Good Honda: That doesn't mean it’s not a fun car to drive and a good car to own, with a proven suspension, interior upgrades and a new sheet metal design.

With the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, performance upgrades are modest and confined to eight more lb.-ft. of torque. The TSX does, however, lose four horsepower, giving it a power profile of 201 horsepower and 172 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or a sporty five-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Fuel economy is rated at 20 city, 28 highway. Suspension components are much the same as the Accord (double wishbone in front, multilink in back), save for different dampers.

According to the spec sheet, it’s bigger in almost every way. Up 1.3 in. in wheelbase, 2.4 in. in length and 3.0 in. in width. Then there's that snout: It’s loud and proud, to be sure. Judging from photos, it does look to be a better integrated element on the TSX, given the car's more angular proportions.

Luxury and technology is the keyword inside, with scads of leather to go with Bluetooth and MP3 integration. The Technology Package also adds a navigation system with voice controls and real-time traffic, among other features.

The good folks at Acura say that the TSX is significantly updated over the existing version, offering better performance, a new style, more luxury and mo’ better technology in the cabin.

Good Honda: Giving the TSX more style and luxury to go with proven handling fun.

Bad Honda: No turbo, no diesel, and no significant upgrade one model year after the Accord is completely reworked?

By: Brian Chee Photo credit: Acura