Given the inspiration for the Special Edition, we’re not shocked to hear the model is offered only with the TSX’s 201-hp, 2.4-liter DOHC I-4. We are, however, a little surprised to hear that availability of the 6-speed manual transmission – previously a no-cost option on all four-cylinder TSX sedans – will be restricted to the SE. That said, Acura officials don’t anticipate relegating the stick to the sport-inspired Special Edition will impact volumes of the manual-equipped TSX. For those who don’t enjoy rowing their own gears, a 5-speed automatic remains available on all 2012 TSX models, including the Special Edition.

Acura isn’t releasing specifics on pricing just yet, but we’re told the entire package should start just under $31,000. Buyers interested in adding navigation to the mix should note Acura’s Technology Package — which includes navigation — is not available on the Special Edition. Presently, there’s no word on if the Special Edition package – or the manual transmission option itself – will carry on beyond the 2012 model year. If you’re interested in picking one up while you can, head to your dealer shortly; cars should be arriving in showrooms by the end of September.

Acura Announces Special Edition Model for TSX Sports Sedan
Exterior and Interior Upgrades Make for an Even Sportier TSX

TORRANCE, Calif.– Continuing the celebration of its 25th anniversary, Acura today announced the availability of a new version of the popular TSX sports sedan for the 2012 model year. Designed to evoke the fun-to-drive 4-cylinder Acuras of the past, the TSX Special Edition will add even more sportiness to the TSX lineup thanks to numerous exterior and interior upgrades for Acura's entry-level sedan.

"The Acura TSX has long been known for its high-revving 4-cylinder engines and sporty driving nature," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With the new Special Edition, the TSX becomes even more youthful and sporty in character, furthering its appeal to performance-minded buyers."

The 2012 TSX Special Edition package consists of numerous upgrades to the exterior including a more aggressive front spoiler, a new rear bumper fascia, unique side sills and an exclusive "Special Edition" badge on the trunklid. Finally, the TSX's 17x7.5-inch, 5-spoke aluminum wheels will feature a polished finish with dark grey background, unique to the Special Edition model.

Inside, the TSX Special Edition makes use of sport-minded appointments including exclusive seating surfaces with perforated black Lux Suede® inserts with red backing. Unique red stitching, used for the seats, steering wheel and the shift knob, combines with red lighting for the instrument cluster gauges, overhead lighting and footwell lighting. Adding more appeal to the driver's footwell are aluminum pedal covers with a race-inspired look. Rounding out the Special Edition's interior upgrades is the use of bright silver plating for the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters along with black headliner material (standard TSX have grey headliner material).

The TSX Special Edition package makes use of Acura's acclaimed K24 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and will be available with either the close-ratio 6-speed manual or Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmissions. The TSX Special Edition will go on sale in late September and will make its public debut at the Orange County International Auto Show on September 22nd.