TSX focus group
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Automobile Aficionado
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From: Jersey shore
TSX focus group
i had posted an older thread asking everyone here to post any changes or improvements to the future of the TSX. A group of about 12-15 acura reps were in last week and met with a select group of people i work with. It was the most interesting thing i have taken part in. The whole team was made up of japanese finest. I met every meber of the TSX team( exterior, interior, engine, styling, lighting, accessories) You name it, they were there. It was so awesome to meet the people that developed the TSX for the US and Canada. I loved just talking with them one on one about the TSX. Only a few spoke english, everyone esle had a translator. They wanted to know what people would like changed about the TSX or further developed.
This is what i got from as far as the future of the TSX.....
It seems they were really pushing the issue for a tsx coupe. They kept asking about a possible coupe. I dont know if the market is really calling for a TSX coupe. Or maybe a wagon.
And one big one was the edition of more power....so that looks like it has been discussed with them before......20 more at least
Brakes brakes brakes and tires tires tires....they were well aware of an improvement needed
Maybe and all wheel drive system but i doubt it.
Another big thing they brought up was to add a possible tuner version of the TSX with a very unlike acura TURBO. To compete with the rising of subaru. This was the most interesting. An option to keep the current TSX and then have some sort of type r or a spec performance oriented TSX
A possible external USB/AUX port for easy connection of "gadgets"(the word they used)
I also met the chief designer of the 05 RL.....smart guy and i told him " good job" hahahah.
I printed out a list of things form my previous thread about this team coming. They said they would visit out community and read up. Overall, an awesome experiance and i felt likle they really were listening or recording what we had to say. it went on for 2 hours. They are only visiting only a handful of dealerships in the US. They all gave out their business cards and email addresses to japan.
This is what i got from as far as the future of the TSX.....
It seems they were really pushing the issue for a tsx coupe. They kept asking about a possible coupe. I dont know if the market is really calling for a TSX coupe. Or maybe a wagon.
And one big one was the edition of more power....so that looks like it has been discussed with them before......20 more at least
Brakes brakes brakes and tires tires tires....they were well aware of an improvement needed
Maybe and all wheel drive system but i doubt it.
Another big thing they brought up was to add a possible tuner version of the TSX with a very unlike acura TURBO. To compete with the rising of subaru. This was the most interesting. An option to keep the current TSX and then have some sort of type r or a spec performance oriented TSX
A possible external USB/AUX port for easy connection of "gadgets"(the word they used)
I also met the chief designer of the 05 RL.....smart guy and i told him " good job" hahahah.
I printed out a list of things form my previous thread about this team coming. They said they would visit out community and read up. Overall, an awesome experiance and i felt likle they really were listening or recording what we had to say. it went on for 2 hours. They are only visiting only a handful of dealerships in the US. They all gave out their business cards and email addresses to japan.
So any ideas when we might hear more about these things?
I'd be interested in a TSX based coupe in a Type-R version with lots of brake and tire and the addition of a factory turbocharger would be nice, all for a reasonable price.
I'd be interested in a TSX based coupe in a Type-R version with lots of brake and tire and the addition of a factory turbocharger would be nice, all for a reasonable price.
Photography Nerd
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From: Toronto
Originally Posted by CGTSX2004
So any ideas when we might hear more about these things?
I'd be interested in a TSX based coupe in a Type-R version with lots of brake and tire and the addition of a factory turbocharger would be nice, all for a reasonable price.
I'd be interested in a TSX based coupe in a Type-R version with lots of brake and tire and the addition of a factory turbocharger would be nice, all for a reasonable price.
User Who Is Registered
Joined: Oct 2004
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From: LA
One thing I would say is to add the bluetooth phone support as seen on the TL and RL.
Its interesting that they used the word "gadgets." This is because they know who their customer base it, IMHO. I think people like the TSX because of all the "gadgets" that it offerers. For example, many owners have a navi system on their TSX (a much higher percentage than have one on, say, a nice camry, cheap bmw, or some other car of comprable price).
To go along this line of thought, I think that they should work on the software system of the navi to allow it to integrate with as many possible items in the car. Ex: feedback from drivetrain, turn on seatwarmers, windows, cellphone, etc. This is the reason the TSX appeals to me, is because of the all the "gadgets."
By the way, I am a programmer. Who else here is a programmer or IT guy? I guess on this site there will be more computer people than normal, but I would guess that most TSX owners are "technologically gifted."
my
Its interesting that they used the word "gadgets." This is because they know who their customer base it, IMHO. I think people like the TSX because of all the "gadgets" that it offerers. For example, many owners have a navi system on their TSX (a much higher percentage than have one on, say, a nice camry, cheap bmw, or some other car of comprable price).
To go along this line of thought, I think that they should work on the software system of the navi to allow it to integrate with as many possible items in the car. Ex: feedback from drivetrain, turn on seatwarmers, windows, cellphone, etc. This is the reason the TSX appeals to me, is because of the all the "gadgets."
By the way, I am a programmer. Who else here is a programmer or IT guy? I guess on this site there will be more computer people than normal, but I would guess that most TSX owners are "technologically gifted."
my
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who's right, who's wrong?
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From: Las Vegas, NV
Originally Posted by dantsx
One thing I would say is to add the bluetooth phone support as seen on the TL and RL.
Its interesting that they used the word "gadgets." This is because they know who their customer base it, IMHO. I think people like the TSX because of all the "gadgets" that it offerers. For example, many owners have a navi system on their TSX (a much higher percentage than have one on, say, a nice camry, cheap bmw, or some other car of comprable price).
To go along this line of thought, I think that they should work on the software system of the navi to allow it to integrate with as many possible items in the car. Ex: feedback from drivetrain, turn on seatwarmers, windows, cellphone, etc. This is the reason the TSX appeals to me, is because of the all the "gadgets."
By the way, I am a programmer. Who else here is a programmer or IT guy? I guess on this site there will be more computer people than normal, but I would guess that most TSX owners are "technologically gifted."
my
Its interesting that they used the word "gadgets." This is because they know who their customer base it, IMHO. I think people like the TSX because of all the "gadgets" that it offerers. For example, many owners have a navi system on their TSX (a much higher percentage than have one on, say, a nice camry, cheap bmw, or some other car of comprable price).
To go along this line of thought, I think that they should work on the software system of the navi to allow it to integrate with as many possible items in the car. Ex: feedback from drivetrain, turn on seatwarmers, windows, cellphone, etc. This is the reason the TSX appeals to me, is because of the all the "gadgets."
By the way, I am a programmer. Who else here is a programmer or IT guy? I guess on this site there will be more computer people than normal, but I would guess that most TSX owners are "technologically gifted."
my
I am looking forward to a coupe model.
Photography Nerd
Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Toronto
Originally Posted by wsklar
I like the idea of a TSX wagon. A coupe would not be needed I think because the RSX fits nicely there (unless maybe a convertible?).
The TSX body doesn't translate well into a coupe without major remodelling of the roofline and seating position. There's no reason why they couldn't have a TSX-based coupe but don't expect it to look like the TSX. It would be similar to the differences between the G35 sedan and coupe.
A TSX coupe makes sense as a replacement because it has just a touch more luxury than the RSX which would improve the corporate image somewhat. It would also create a unique vehicle without much competition. The 350Z, G35C, and RX8 are all bigger cars and priced accordingly. The only real competion I can see is the BMW 3 series coupe (or are they calling it the 4 series
) which again is a lot more expensive.Interesting concept.
Tuxedo Cat
Joined: May 2004
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From: Venice Beach
The wagon would be easy. They already make that body style for other parts of the world. It's the one that was featured in the famous "cog" commercial in Europe.
Definitely DON'T want my commonly-used controls intetgrated with Navi. I want to be able to operate the common stuff without going through a menu system (aka, without taking my eyes off the road). Force me to use a menu system for basic items (temp, radio, etc) and I'll buy a different car. Period. I don't mind having to go there for the less common commands and controls, but anything I'm going to be commonly using while driving should be easy to find by touch. Just like a fighter jet (or any other airplane, really).
(Unless of course you're going to give me a HID, so I can play with the menus and still watch the road, in which case I'm OK with more stuff in the menu system. But still not the most common controls.)
An Aux input should be a standard feature on any vehicle that doesn't offer a user-replaceable sound/video system, which is most luxury cars these days. Having to go through solutions like the SNHOND3 install is just plain BS.
Definitely DON'T want my commonly-used controls intetgrated with Navi. I want to be able to operate the common stuff without going through a menu system (aka, without taking my eyes off the road). Force me to use a menu system for basic items (temp, radio, etc) and I'll buy a different car. Period. I don't mind having to go there for the less common commands and controls, but anything I'm going to be commonly using while driving should be easy to find by touch. Just like a fighter jet (or any other airplane, really).
(Unless of course you're going to give me a HID, so I can play with the menus and still watch the road, in which case I'm OK with more stuff in the menu system. But still not the most common controls.)
An Aux input should be a standard feature on any vehicle that doesn't offer a user-replaceable sound/video system, which is most luxury cars these days. Having to go through solutions like the SNHOND3 install is just plain BS.
Intermediate
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More Power, little softer ride, more luxury items (mirror go down when reversing, smart cruise that follows car in front, bluetooth, etc)
It pretty sweet as it is for the $$, but the above would sweet (and expensive!)
It pretty sweet as it is for the $$, but the above would sweet (and expensive!)
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From: Jersey shore
yes we mentioned the rattles and bluetooth.....
i think 2006 will see some interesting changes and i think the RSX will be a gone....sales are way down and acura seems to be moving in the opposite direction of an RSX.
American Honda also has a few consumer groups that are put together to research the TSX and further develop it....i think i might look into this and join. I think you have know people though.
i think 2006 will see some interesting changes and i think the RSX will be a gone....sales are way down and acura seems to be moving in the opposite direction of an RSX.
American Honda also has a few consumer groups that are put together to research the TSX and further develop it....i think i might look into this and join. I think you have know people though.
Originally Posted by NJtsx
yes we mentioned the rattles and bluetooth.....
i think 2006 will see some interesting changes and i think the RSX will be a gone....sales are way down and acura seems to be moving in the opposite direction of an RSX.
American Honda also has a few consumer groups that are put together to research the TSX and further develop it....i think i might look into this and join. I think you have know people though.
i think 2006 will see some interesting changes and i think the RSX will be a gone....sales are way down and acura seems to be moving in the opposite direction of an RSX.
American Honda also has a few consumer groups that are put together to research the TSX and further develop it....i think i might look into this and join. I think you have know people though.
Go Giants
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 70,003
Likes: 1,260
From: PA
Originally Posted by CGTSX2004
Well, if you do manage to get into one of these focus groups, see if you can get a couple of us in on it as well. The best place for them to find ways to improve the TSX is to talk to the real enthusiasts.
- With all the complaints here, they will run away very quickly!!! Maybe we can sick Gilbo on them....
Originally Posted by dabuda
thats pretty cool! 
they already have the TSX wagon in Europe, just need to bring it over here
a coupe would be nice but it might cannibalize some of the RSX sales
they already have the TSX wagon in Europe, just need to bring it over here
a coupe would be nice but it might cannibalize some of the RSX sales
who's right, who's wrong?
Joined: Sep 2003
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From: Las Vegas, NV
Originally Posted by tsxhondatuner
i haven't seen one 05 rsx on the road yet and its been 3 months. there jus sittin at the dealer.
Instructor
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From: CA
Originally Posted by NJtsx
American Honda also has a few consumer groups that are put together to research the TSX and further develop it....i think i might look into this and join. I think you have know people though.
Tuxedo Cat
Joined: May 2004
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From: Venice Beach
Originally Posted by dabuda
thats pretty cool!
they already have the TSX wagon in Europe, just need to bring it over here
a coupe would be nice but it might cannibalize some of the RSX sales
they already have the TSX wagon in Europe, just need to bring it over here
a coupe would be nice but it might cannibalize some of the RSX sales
Go Giants
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 70,003
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From: PA
Originally Posted by Dr. T
Just found this thread....
Bring on the Euro-Accord wagon in AWD to match the Subies! Puhhhlleeeeze!
Bring on the Euro-Accord wagon in AWD to match the Subies! Puhhhlleeeeze!
2*Much .NOT. Enough
Joined: Oct 2004
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From: NM
Originally Posted by dantsx
One thing I would say is to add the bluetooth phone support as seen on the TL and RL.
Its interesting that they used the word "gadgets." This is because they know who their customer base it, IMHO.[snip]
By the way, I am a programmer. Who else here is a programmer or IT guy? I guess on this site there will be more computer people than normal, but I would guess that most TSX owners are "technologically gifted."
my
Its interesting that they used the word "gadgets." This is because they know who their customer base it, IMHO.[snip]
By the way, I am a programmer. Who else here is a programmer or IT guy? I guess on this site there will be more computer people than normal, but I would guess that most TSX owners are "technologically gifted."
my
Mine ain't got no navi, since I decided to get "the last 2004 off the lot" and took what they had, but I'm certainly interested in modifying the audio system to add "other things" like iPod, MP3 player, portable nav (PDA + GPS), blah blah blah.
Whether the Acura folks decide to add stuff to the TSX won't have much effect on me personally, since I'll be keeping this one until at least 200K miles. But maybe even folks like us could help them make it even better or attract more customers by seeing what attracted us in the first place.
For me, one word: "balance". I needed to find a good handling car that was sufficiently fast, had excellent reliability, enough "stuff" to make it interesting, 30 mpg or so on the highway, room for my carpool buddies, a bit of panache or flair, and under $30K. Add it all up, and the list gets pretty short. I like to "become one" with my car (think of a Cossack and his horse). Anybody wanna "become one" with a Volvo S60? Saab 9-3? Subaru Legacy GT? Hmmm.
As for the punch list for fixes:
1) The abrupt throttle transitions rolling on or off need to be smoothed out.
My educated foot is disappointed in the DBW throttle lurching.
2) Stronger brakes, while keeping the nice modulation it exhibits now.
3) A better way to offer lumbar support than the one currently used, which is either feels like "lumber" or nothing on longer trips.
I don't think it needs a massive influx of power; that's not its mission, so to speak. Just polish it to an even shinier luster. And maybe offer some more colorful colors.
(Think about it: red, blue, and five gray levels from white to black)
My
and then some.
Rep'n Taxbrain.com
Joined: Aug 2004
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From: N. Cali-forn-i-a
Yeah...I'm a programmer too...Representin' taxbrain.com...
I have to agree there are lots of smart people here. I'm pretty knowledgable when it comes to electronics and I've still learned a lot of stuff here.
I'm definitely a gadget guy. Most of my mods have been audio/video mods
Pioneer AVIC-N1 Navi/Mp3/DVD/TV connected to AUX input
JL Audio Tweets (Dash) / Diamond Audio Components ( F doors) / Infinity 6002i (R doors)
Jl Audio 12" W3v2 / Phoenix Gold 250zx Amp w/ Bass Knob
Nokia Bluetooth phone kit w/ Mute wire hooked to N1
RCA Lyra Rd2780 providing Audio/video/mp3
1/2 Farat Capacitor
Valentine 1 with concealed display
Clifford Alarm
Very cool that you got give some input to the designers of the TSX. A factory Turbo charged TSX would be the shizznit
Sounds tight!! 
I have to agree there are lots of smart people here. I'm pretty knowledgable when it comes to electronics and I've still learned a lot of stuff here.
I'm definitely a gadget guy. Most of my mods have been audio/video mods
Pioneer AVIC-N1 Navi/Mp3/DVD/TV connected to AUX input
JL Audio Tweets (Dash) / Diamond Audio Components ( F doors) / Infinity 6002i (R doors)
Jl Audio 12" W3v2 / Phoenix Gold 250zx Amp w/ Bass Knob
Nokia Bluetooth phone kit w/ Mute wire hooked to N1
RCA Lyra Rd2780 providing Audio/video/mp3
1/2 Farat Capacitor
Valentine 1 with concealed display
Clifford Alarm
Very cool that you got give some input to the designers of the TSX. A factory Turbo charged TSX would be the shizznit
Sounds tight!!
I kAnt Spel guD
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,319
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From: Chicagoland, IL
Originally Posted by nagidizy
I don't think it needs a massive influx of power; that's not its mission, so to speak. Just polish it to an even shinier luster. And maybe offer some more colorful colors.
(Think about it: red, blue, and five gray levels from white to black)
My
and then some.
VV "Precision Crafted" VV
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 248
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From: Diamond Bar, CA.
Originally Posted by wsklar
I like the idea of a TSX wagon. A coupe would not be needed I think because the RSX fits nicely there (unless maybe a convertible?).
VV "Precision Crafted" VV
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 248
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From: Diamond Bar, CA.
IMO I would like to see the following changes for the future of the TSX:
1) A TSX coupe to replace the RSX ( in standard and type S platforms).
2) Increase horsepower to at least 230 hp & 250 hp type S.
3) RWD with improved braking and suspension. The TSX should be a performance-oriented ride.
1) A TSX coupe to replace the RSX ( in standard and type S platforms).
2) Increase horsepower to at least 230 hp & 250 hp type S.
3) RWD with improved braking and suspension. The TSX should be a performance-oriented ride.
Luke 1:37
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 4,425
Likes: 1
From: Boston, MA
Originally Posted by DJDZ
IMO I would like to see the following changes for the future of the TSX:
1) A TSX coupe to replace the RSX ( in standard and type S platforms).
2) Increase horsepower to at least 230 hp & 250 hp type S.
3) RWD with improved braking and suspension. The TSX should be a performance-oriented ride.
1) A TSX coupe to replace the RSX ( in standard and type S platforms).
2) Increase horsepower to at least 230 hp & 250 hp type S.
3) RWD with improved braking and suspension. The TSX should be a performance-oriented ride.
btw. a coupe TSX would look awesome! Perfect size for it!
I kAnt Spel guD
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,319
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From: Chicagoland, IL
Originally Posted by virtualbong
Agree in all aspects except why not go the AWD route if you were going to make a change like that.
btw. a coupe TSX would look awesome! Perfect size for it!
btw. a coupe TSX would look awesome! Perfect size for it!
I think it would be nice if they brought the K20 Euro-R to the states as a type-S(R) or some time of special edition like the integra use to get. The Euro-R isn't a true "R" in the sense of the old Typer-R's but I think Acura has out grown those types of models.
But a special limited Edition Euro-R model TSX in the states would be cool.
Again I think the old Prelude was a TSX coupe an no one bought those.....
