shaunmac9128

Hello all, I'm a new member here. I was looking for a TL but I was thinking about a TSX now. The TSX appears to be slower from the number I've found. However also a little cheaper so I could find one with less miles, navi, the good stuff. Most the 3rd gen TL's around here have 80-110k miles. Just looking for some opinions on the tsx compared to the tl from guys who actually own them. Do the TSX's have the rsx-s motor? Also, I assume they are pretty reliable? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

thbhouse

Both the TSX and TL are great as far as reliability. The TL is noticeably faster as it's got a V6 with an extra 50 or 60 hp (I believe). However, after having driven both I prefer the TSX because it handles sooo much better and with a few simple mods the TSX should be fast enough for most people (for a sedan anyway).

The TSX is also cheaper which would allow you to get a newer TSX and/or one with fewer miles as compared to a similarly priced TL. And the TSX gets better gas mileage as it's a 4 banger.

I think you'll be happy with either one, they've both got their pros and cons. They both appeal to different people for different reasons. Have you driven both?

mrgold35

You can't go wrong with either car. Both car pretty much have the same level of luxury/tech (depending on the year), close to the same mpgs, both are very reliable. The most bang for the buck is the 06 TSX, a lot of upgrades compared to the 04/05 TSX. The 07/08 TSX had very few upgrades (TPMS, XM traffic).

The two big advantages with the TL are the 3.2L engine and the slightly larger size. I call the TSX a 4-door coupe; while the TL is more made for 3-4 passengers. Chances are you will find 2X or 3X as many TL out there compared to TSXs.

The two advantages with the TSX are its smaller size and handling. The 2.4L I-4 is a very popular Honda/Acura engine. You will get +150,000 miles of trouble free driving miles; if you do the routine maint. I think the RSX only had a 2.0L I-4.

Keep in mind, the TSX does not have a lot of power. You will have to spend $4,000-$6,000 in engine mod to equal the power of a 3.2L or 3.5L TL engines.

The lack of power wasn't a deal breaker for me when I purchased the TSX 4 years ago. After purchasing my RDX with the Hondata reflash; the lack of power is making me think trade for v-6 power.

shaunmac9128

Do they offer a reflash for the tax like they do for the rsx? Rsx's are much easier to find with lower miles around here which is a dealbreaker for me. I can find one with nav, heated seats, and a 6 speed for what I was going to spen on a higher mileage tl. I'm coming from an almost stock V6 automatic mustang so I doubt it'll feel slow. If the motor is anything like the rsx motor, idk if it is, with a cai and reflash it should pull a little better. I really like the looks of them with a lip kit and fast line spoiler. I think I'm leaning towards the tsx in blue white or silver. Thanks for the help so far.

thbhouse

Reflash is available for the TSX up to and including the 2006 model. There is still no reflash available for the 2007+ models and no word if there ever will be. Also, if I'm not mistaken, the price of the reflash has dropped fairly recently to like $270. I could be wrong, I haven't been paying much attention since there is no reflash available for my year (2007) yet.

I say get a TSX and it sounds like with $1,200 in mods you'd be very happy. $1,200 could easily get you headers, reflash, intake, and pulleys which should add about 50-60 hp, and 35-40whp

Boulder TSX

Yes, if you buy an 06, you get 95% of the upgrades that 07 & 08 cars have over 04 & 05 cars...and you can also get Hondata Reflash. (Not available for 07 & 08). THBhouse is correct, the price just dropped to $300.

Another thing to consider if you are concerned about quickness: the manuals are a little faster than the automatics. Car & Driver tested each and the manual came out faster 0-60. Part of it is the gearing taking advantage of the VTEC powerband, but much of it is due to the fact that the manual weighs less, (magnesium transfer case, etc.)

Oh and speaking of Car & Driver, one reason to consider the TSX over the TL: The TSX was on their "10 Best Cars in the World" list for three years in a row. The TL, (while a very nice car), was not even nominated.

shaunmac9128

Thanks again guys. Do I need to send anything to honda or anything like that for the reflash or is it something I buy and plug into the tsx? I'm not too concerned with power but it would be nice to have little more pep. Going to test drive a 6 speed one tomorrow and see how I like it. My first mods after reading around would probably be front lip, fast line spoiler, cai, and reflash.

I've read through the dyno thread, and a lot of people think/say the stock exhaust flows pretty well, so would it be stupid and too much of a bottle neck to put a header on with the stock exhaust behind it except with a high flow cat. I feel like it might be a good combination since people say catbacks can actually loose some tq, it might be a good flowing and sounding setup.

xenonhid

TL is way too big for me.


TSX looks better and handles way better too.

So given that, it was a simple choice for me!