Ok I'm going to see an 06 TSX this afternoon. I'm on the fence with an 06 Accord EX with cloth seats vs. the 06 TSX. I like the body more of the TSX and the smaller size than the Accord. I keep running through my head the leather seats and the creasing that comes with it. I don't think I'll be happy with seeing the leather creasing. Besides this I like to open the sunroof and not use the A/C up to about 85 degrees and think that I'll be sweating like a pig in the leather. I also haven't owned leather in the past. What do you guys think, should I just go for the Accord?

 

depends.
do you like to drive?
or do you just need transportation?

do you like luxury features?
or don't care for them?

 

You are asking an Acura TSX enthusiast forum to see if you should get a slower Accord with less luxury items. 90% here including me will say get the TSX. It doesn't really matter what we think though its going to be your car in the long run. Both are very good at what they do, if you want a car to just get you from A to B go for the Accord, if you want something that get you from A to B with a little fun and luxury options go for the TSX. Good luck.

 

The TSX is probably a little pricey compared to the Accord in terms of repairs and parts. But the drive-quality of the TSX is not just ONE league above the Accord... it's several.

The leather seats shouldn't make you sweat unless your actual skin is touching it... then of course you'll sweat.

Lots of people will say "oh the TSX is just an Accord," but that is not true. Its waaaaaay better.

So evaluate what you'd rather have... a more economically smart car with less luxury/precision, or a more pricey car with more luxury/precision.

Finally, good choice with choosing an 06 for the TSX.

 

If you want to save money, get the Accord. It takes regular gas, even the V6. The TSX really should have 91 octane or better.

The smaller size, better amenities and nicer ride/handling/performance of the TSX made it a no-brainer for me after driving comparably equipped 2006 Accords (I4 and V6) (moonroof, leather).

If you sweat like a pig, then clean/condition the leather regularly, it won't fail you. (BTW, a little creasing or wear is normal; these are made from animal hides, after all. If you can't hang with that, get something with "Mercedes leather," which is vinyl.) If you're a slob ... you'll find leather easier to clean.

The TSX has a 60/40 split rear seat, which iirc the Accords do not.

 

I like leather. It doesn't stink after 50,000 miles. This is perforated leather, so that'll at least breathe better, but you'll still sweat like a pig regardless. I'd say maybe opt for a lighter color if you can and tint your windows.

As for accord vs. TSX, it really depends on you. There absolutely are differences, however, you can decide if they are big enough given the price premium. I certainly do. The TSX has better materials, better engine (although if you want a v6 the gen 1 TSX isn't for you), much better handling, and a smaller profile.

 

Thanks everyone for their inputs. I'm coming off my Integra which I sold last year and really liked that car. I can also say I really don't care much for all of the gizmos and the one I really want (MP3 capability) I can add to each of these vehicles. Having a 4 cyl with over 140hp is good enough for me so either one works. Also gasoline prices don't matter to me a few extra dollars one way or the other isn't going to hurt me since I work from home

Edit: BTW I'm 6'2 170lbs so very skinny. While I really don't sweat while walking, depending on the surface I can drench the back of the shirt. The price isn't the issue also, it's trying to find a car that I like with what I want and I see myself making compromises on each one that I've looked at.

 

I too like to drive with the windows open until it starts getting really hot. I don't sweat any more because of the leather than I would from any other material. The perforation really does help. It's a total non-issue.

As far as the quality concerns go, you have to remember that complaints are over represented here (as in any car forum) because a lot of people only come looking for such a site when they have a problem. Personally, my leather seats look fantastic at almost 70k miles. A lot of the times when people get hysteric about it, when they post up pictures of their problem it's much more minor than they described it. Like DavidSpalding said, they're made out of dead animal and there will be variances between different pieces.

If you're extremely anal, there's a chance you could end up being unhappy with it. If you get the concept of normal wear and tear, you'll be fine with it.

 

That is a very accurate point.... I am going to say TSX as well

 

True, but the 2006 and later TSX has it built-in (arm rest compartment, with a very handy tray to put the player ... I believe the Accord has this armrest, but not the input(?)).

The TSX also has HandsFreeLink for using a cell phone. A lot handier than some might think. (I used up 1200 rollover minutes and my anytime minutes over the last 3-4 months talking to my gf driving home from work. )

Being that tall, check out the seat and steering wheel adjustments ... you might find the TSX adjusts more precisely to your comfort, with the 8-way(?) power seats, two position memory, incl. height and angle adjustment (driver side).

If you're the least bit interested in the NAVI system, go TSX. Consumer Reports rated it one of the most usable on the market. (I'm regretting not waiting for a navi-equipped model to buy.)

 

To me the 06 TSX comes equipped just right. Built in satellite radio (yes it is becoming more common on lesser cars), I love the heated/memory seats and the mp3 jack tucked in the center compartment (along with another lighter output). The movable center rest does make driving more comfortable even if it is a 6 speed. My leather after 48K looks good (I guess) and I have not conditioned it once. No tears, some wrinkles but nothing to make me look twice. Intergrated Bluetooth is a nice feature and the digital monitor in the dash helps keep up with info (MPG, distance to empty, etc.) What funny is I had an 05 TSX 6speed and I went to trade it in after a year (looking to lower my payment). I looked at the 05 or 06 Accord but nothing struck my as that much more of a drivers car. In the end I traded it for an 06 5AT my payment went up by 100 bucks but I did not care. I was driving what I wanted not something that was cheaper. Both are great cars and will get the job done, but when you leave the office (i.e. home for you) and you go to drive somewhere the TSX will do it with more style. That would be my choice (and it was of the two). Good luck

 

Thanks for all that information. I really want the MP3 capability on the CD player not the actual jack for a MP3 player. Actually I really don't care much for an MP3 player just that I can burn a ton of Mp3s on one CD.

For the bluetooth, don't care much for it...I only have 200 anytime minutes and most of that is work.

I drive really close anyway so I doubt if the 8way will really matter, especially since I had just regular adjustable seats in the Integra.

And I know most of the local places, I only use a Tomtom when I have to go far and that is once maybe every 6 months.

 

Are you looking at these cars to fit your frame? If not, and you don't care about the features I would look at spending less cash and just pick up something smaller (Coralla, Civic, etc.). Keeping your money in your pocket may make you happier than having a more uplifting driving experiance. Sometimes I look back and say to myself that I should have mept my 99 sentra GXE limited with no payments and ran it into the ground. It did the job. Ya know?

 

For me, I'd go TSX. Like many others on this forum, I cross shopped the Accord, but found that it wasn't really that much less, and you get so much more with the TSX.

I don't think the leather will be issue for you. I live in central Florida, and it gets pretty darn hot here during the summer (all 10 months of it.) I don't find that I sweat any more on the leather than I did on the cloth in my last car. When you first get in it, it can be pretty brutal, but after a few minutes its fine. It breathes very well. And the a/c is top notch.

MP3 capability can be added on in the form of a secondary CD player that goes where the cubby hole is below the radio. It is a real Acura factory accessory so you won't have any issues with it. They also make a tape deck to go down there if you're into that sort of thing. The only down side is that you lose the cubby hole. I think if you add it right away, you won't even miss it.

Honestly, you can't go wrong with either of those choices. They're both good cars. It really comes down to your style. If you want more of a "driver's car" then go with the TSX. If you want something with a cushier (read, floatier) ride, less pep and less excitement, go with the Accord.

 

Thanks for everyone's help. I went to take a look at the car but it was sold ...I then went to take a look at the Accord and that thing was dirty on the inside, and I was hearing something from the back that was bothering me...may have been the tires but I didn't stay around to find out as they weren't willing to negotiate to my price.

 

I couldn't've said it better ... in fact, I'm going to make this post my sigline....

I test drove a 2005 TSX right after a 2006 RSX at Carmax on a Wednesday, and left thinking, "that's it, I've FOUND my next car." But not a Carmax deal. Bought one sight unseen (CPO) the next day from a dealer in town, and when I picked it up Saturday, the salesman showed me the new features for 2006 that I hadn't even expected. HandsFreeLink, MP3, memory seats (?), the slightly useful MID, the very useful Driver1 and Driver2 custom settings on the MID, power passenger seat ... not much by themselves, but enough together that a 2006 versus 2005 is a sort of upgrade. 2007 added TPMS, and I don't hear people singing its praises much.

 

Has anyone had any experience with Norris Acura in MD? They have one car that I may be interested in but I'm about 100 miles away so if anyone has any experience with them let me know.

You'll be shocked at what happened on Friday when I sent the Honda dealer a comment after I test drove a 06 Accord EX. This occurred at Main Line Honda in Ardmore, PA

Mike,


A few things I just wanted to make you aware of. First of all your sales manager was way too pushy. I don't remember how many times I said no but was quite annoyed after saying it at least five times. I understand the dealership needs to close sales and with the given economy times are tough, but when someone needs to think about a deal your sales manager should be courteous and allow them the time to think about it and not push them. This only causes more friction and in turn will lose the sale. Second the car was filthy. For a CPO car I would have expected more. The carpet was extremely dirty and the steering wheel and door panel had stains. A simple wipe of the surface would have taken care of the issue. Finally I value first impressions…having to sit with a choice of two chairs with coffee stains is just plain disgusting. Either have the chairs cleaned or get new ones. I can’t say that I will purchase the vehicle given all I went through yesterday. I hope down the road things will be a bit different with a better experience.


Nick

And this was his response:

im not the interior decorator for the dealership, the only thing you should care about is buying a car at the fantastic deal he gave you. were you here to buy a car or look at chairs. this is a excelent deal. so lets put this together and make a deal happen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

He didn't even address my issues with the car but had enough arrogance to talk about his crummy office. I have a letter going out to Honda today about it. Hopefully someone can put some pressure on them so this doesn't happen again.

 

Lol I owe a 7 Gen Accord and I am going to buy my wife a 06 TSX ... after your bad experience at the Honda dealership have you made your decision?

 

Yep...LOL getting the TSX.

 

wow, I would want to slap that guy across the face.

and great choice on the TSX.
you are going to love it!!!!!

 

I have the 04 Accord EX-V6 AND an 06 TSX-AT (explains my username).
The Accord is quicker 0-30 mph, and has more legroom, BUT I would always pick the TSX for these reasons:
1) 22.5- 23.5 mpg in town (the Accord is 17.5-18.5);
2) the TSX handles much better and feels more balanced;
3) Zenon headlights!!! if you haven't had these, you'll be blown away. I'll never go back to standard HL's;
4) The AT w/ manual option;
5) fit and finish;
6) better sound system;
7) seat memory;
8) auto-dimming rear-view mirror;
9) perforated leather- cooler than the leather in the Accord.

 

And from your sigline, I'm guessing you know your way around Accords, and have for some time now.

I wouldn't bother with Honda, what do they care? Put your thoughts on Google map reviews, and other sites. QUOTE the reply you were sent. Literalcy appearently isnt theyre strong suite. (Translation: literacy apparently isn't their strong suit.)

I had a similar experience with a Toyo dealer in Durham, shopping for Siennas. Not only do I give that dealership a wide berth, but I've recounted my tale for > 100 people. No time for all the details, but same as you ... direct question ("give me the VIN and your asking price") three times to a salesman and sales manager was ignored. "I was going to check black book price with my bank and call you back, but if you can't give me two pieces of information, never mind." "But the banks aren't open Sunday!" "Mine is [USAA], and you just lost a deal." (This while I was walking out the door.) I bought another dealership's CPO vehicle the next morning.

 

Need some advice on one I found. An Acura dealership has one that is not CPO and they say that it is because they can only have X amount of them CPO. Is this true? My gut feeling is saying to stay away from this car or get them to lower it between 15.5-16k so I can get an aftermarket warranty.

What do you think?

 

^ Stay away from it. Its a stealership, man. If they start playing in shadow, there maybe something wrong. Or at least ensure yourself by buying a CPO 1 or buying 1 from a private seller with maintenance history. What can u tell us about this one? mileage ? condition ?

 

What is the price quote they offered you for the car, mileage, specs etc? We can tell you if it's a good price with that info or if they are trying to mark it up. I am not sure if that's true or not as I had a dealership tell me that down in Richmond, VA and then I just came up to Fairfax, VA (where I live) and they had plenty in stock on the lot and never said anything about there being a quota for it. I would look at other ones they have or else surrounding dealers to see what a price would be and you can even ask another Acura dealer if it's true. You should be able to view the CarFax report on it too for free as that is part of the deal I see they offer for interest in a car, just to make sure you know what you're getting into.

 

It's an 06 with 31,500 miles no navigation and spoiler. They are asking for 18,995. It was a personal vehicle in North Carolina, ended up at auction in PA and then ended at a dealership in MD. It has a clean record though.

 

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/n...034666500.html

This is one that is similar with a lot less miles, CPO and non-navi. You can def talk them down in price because that is way too high for something with that many miles and non-CPO when this one is going for around the same price and you can talk them down more. If it was CPO then they would have a better arguing point but without CPO I would say that is too much.

Logically speaking if they want that much for non-CPO then they would expect about 20K for an 06 CPO...you can get an 08 CPO for about 22K now lol. I would say you can def talk them down in price though.

 

sortudo is right. in this economic time, this price is too high for non-CPO.

 

Yeah I sent them an email asking for a significant price reduction and haven't heard back...I don't know if I really want to look at it but if the price is good I may get an extended 3rd party warranty...If not I'll need to wait a bit since there are very few cars for sale in carbon gray or silver with a gray interior.

 

Third party extended warranties are almost NEVER worth it. Just put the cash aside in case there are problems. It's not like you're buying a VW...

 

I have to agree. Most of the time the third party warranties are set up so they only have to the absolute minimum to fix your car. A friend of mine had Celica that blew the engine at something like 85k miles (his fault, it had almost no oil left in it). The replacement engine was older and had almost 200k miles on it. They maybe spent $100 on it. It never ran right and the transmission was on it's way out about 1000 miles later. Luckily for him some drunk bitch obliterated the car while it was parked not much later.

 

Your avatar is perfect. My gf just sold her VW and found a Toy Echo ... the Jetta repairs had her doing the "hand on forehead" motion, and worse.

It never occurred to me to bargain down the price on my extended warranty. But then, I thought I was getting an AcuraCare warranty, and they sold me the dealer's group warranty. Yes, I was pissed months later when I found out (and I was by then out of the original 50,000 mile warranty period, and couldn't buy AcuraCare).