Acura's entry-level luxury sport sedan, the TSX, is one year removed from a 2009 redesign, and is carried over to the 2010 model year.
This TSX is 3 inches wider and 2.4 inches longer than the previous generation, with a track that has been widened 2.6 inches, and a 1.3 inch longer wheelbase. The overall height has also been lowered a little over a half inch, resulting in a lower, wider, sleeker appearance than models '08 and older.
The 5-passenger interior has a sophisticated, performance look. The center stack console incorporates touch screen and audio activated navigation, real-time traffic reports, weather updates, and audio controls. The audio system includes ten-speakers, a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, and XM Satellite radio.
The base engine for the TSX is a 2.4-liter inline-4 that sends its 201 horsepower to the front wheels through either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. For 2010 a new 280 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 sends power through the 5-speed automatic to front wheel drive.
Fuel consumption for the TSX's inline-4 is listed at 20 miles per gallon city, 30 miles per gallon highway. Fuel economy information for the V6 was not available at the time of this test drive.
Most of the TSX's high-end features come standard including 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, a sunroof, heated power front seats with driver memory, leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, and a center console docking station.
Located at the bottom of the center console bin are a power outlet, USB connection, and auxiliary audio jack, again, all standard.
Safety features on the 2010 TSX include front crumple zones that work in unison with 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, front dual stage airbags, and front/rear side curtain airbags.
Initial base MSRP for the 2010 Acura TSX is $29,310. With the V6 and the technology package, the TSX is completely optioned out at around $38,000. The TSX is backed by a 6-year, 70,000-mile power train warranty.
The Acura TSX takes the successful recipe of a front wheel drive tech savvy sedan and kicks it up a notch with aggressive styling, a new V6 powerplant, and the latest technological features.