How do you guys feel about the TSX? Has anyone ever driven one? How does it compare to the Accord and TL?

I've done some research on it, and it seems to be only inches smaller than the Accord/TL...and quite a bit cheaper than the TL...I know it's only a 4 banger...but my mom is no speed demon.

The TSX IS built on the Accord/TL platform, right? I know it's the European Accord, so I assumed it's basically the same car.

This is definately a car I'm gonna recommend she test drives...it has Acura's luxury and comfort, Honda pricing, 200hp, and the 60/40 rear seat she likes.

I'm worried about the size though...I've never been in a TSX so I don't know if it feels considerably smaller than the TL/Accord or not.

Opinions...

btw...if your sick of my questions...feel free to let me know...I get really into car shopping.

 

I test drove it before I bought the TL and I also had one as a loaner for a few days with the TL in the shop.
The TSX is based on the European Accord, which honestly looks liek a stretched American Civic, mayeb a marketing gimic, who knows. The TL is based on US Accord.
My take is, the TSX is smaller, but we knew that. It is a very nimble and fun car to drive and for a 4 cyl. it hauls, but it is a 4 so launching off the line does not have that same pull the TL does. If you don't launch hard the TSX is a blast. The 360 watt sound system has more punch than the TL, but it is not as refiend, not as clean sounding, but seems to have better highs than the TL. I beleive the TSX can do MP3s, the TL can not, but can do DVD-A. This will spark some debate, but I fell the TSX is assembled better, seemed tighter construction. The TL interior (although squeaky and creaky) is more luxurious and feels more of it's $32k class. The TSX seats are more firm and sporty, they hug you. All in all I had more "fun" driving the TSX, but I "enjoy" the TL ride better (if they woudl fix all these squeaks and creaks)!
If they didn't have 2.9% financing on the TL when I got it I probabaly woudl have been in a TSX.

 

She needs to drive both. The Euro Accord IS a different platform, the US Accord/TL platform is larger than the Euro Accord/TSX. The TSX is more tossable but the TL is quicker, is more luxurious and has better brakes.

Vandy

 

its about the same size as the TL really. not much difference.

the differences are as follows (im sure i will miss a couple):
-TSX has a 4cyl 200hp - TL has 6cyl 270hp
-TSX has drivers power seat - TL has driver and passenger power with memory
-TSX has a more powerful sound system wattage-wise and has the ability to have an mp3/CD player
-TSX has slightly better fuel economy
-TSX has a slightly larger turning radius
-TSX is lighter and higher off the ground
-TSX has more rear headroom (barely)

basically with the TL youre really paying for the looks and the little extra features

 

I'm just worried about size...

Is the TSX noticeably smaller inside? I know the interior dimensions are within and inch or so of the TLs in every catagory...

So I really want to know if the inch here and there really makes the TSX feels that much smaller?

 

Back seat leg room take biggest hit. also the width. I was fine in TSX, but after buying TL the TSX feels even smaller now.

 

theres like a 3 inch difference in front seat shoulder room

everything else is relatively close i think

my GF liked that the TL had a lot of leg room though

 

I owned a TSX for a year before "upgrading" to the TL.

The TSX was, for me, a great car. Very nimble and tightly built, with a "sporting" suspension (that is, somewhat stiff, excellent road feel, good feedback when cornering at all the speeds I drive). No rattles, no shakes, every piece fitted snug against the other. Comfort wise, I was very happy. In terms of performance, I never once felt like the engine (a 200 HP 4 cyllinder) was "undersized": in fact, it was really pretty hard to imagine that the TSX was "only" powered by a four cyllinder. The TSX was also surprisingly roomy, front and rear seats and trunk, for a "small" car. The sound system in the TSX was excellent.

Why did I move to a TL? Well, the TL has, at least with my car, all the "fit and finish" quality that the TSX had. Its a bit bigger, or at least feels a bit bigger on the inside. The performance and handling is more "solid" (albeit, in my opinion, slightly less nimble): still somewhat "sporting", certainly not a "rolling couch" like a Cadillac, for example, but a bit less "harsh" perhaps than the TSX. All around, the TL has a more complete sense of luxury, in terms of seating, materials, and "visual cues". The sound system in the TL is more refined than the TSX- more balanced and, even though less powerful, I'd say the "effect" of the sound is at least as impressive. Part of this is probably the inclusion of a good subwoofer, but also I suspect that the tuning and balance of the sound system contributes to both a pure and powerful sound. The TL is not available (currently) with an MP3 player, but I find that so far at least I'm enjoying the Digital Theatre sound and DVD-A audio more than the flexibility of the MP3 format. Another factor, an important one for me, is that the TL is available in Canada with the excellent Navigation computer/voice response system: the TSX was and is not.

Everything I say above is purely my own opinion: take it as you will, but be sure that your Mom (assuming the car is for your Mom) tries both out. I don't think, personally, she would go wrong with either car.

By the way, when comparing the Acura family as a whole it is possible to say "this is just an upscale Honda". The same can be said about Lexus, Infiniti...possibly others. Its really possible to look at, say, an Acura EL and draw comparisons to a Civic. What sets an Acura apart is the precise attention to detail- I've been very impressed with the fit and finish, as well as the treatment I get from our dealer, with all three of the Acura's my wife and I have owned so far. I'd certainly recommend an Acura to anyone who asked if they are considering a sound investment in a very well built car, and I'd happily draw comparisons to BMW or Mercedes without feeling foolish.

 

You need to learn how to manipulate your mom, because your strategies to date aren't working. Some tips:

1. Suck up to her boyfriend.

2. Tell her you're thinking of enlisting in the Army if you don't get a TL.

3. Tell her that a Honda will attract a certain type of female and an Acura another and if she wants drug-free children and incremental income, she should go Acura.

4. Tell her a 4 cylinder car "isn't very safe on the Everitt Turnpike with all those 6 bangers out there".

5. Explain to her that EZPass is coming to NH within 12 months and that the Honda's windshield is coated with a substance that renders the transponder useless.

6. Buy a rifle at K Mart and start reading books about the Columbine tragedy.

7. Tell her you want a pet snake.

8. Call Joe Casey at Sunnyside Acura and tell him to work your mom for you.

9. Mother's Day's coming; go buy her the fuc*ing TL that you want and give it to her with a big pink bow and hide the payment book under the armrest

Good Advice: Son, if you can't control your mom, you're never going to control your wife and that means that your life is pretty much over. This is your moment. This is your time. Rise to the occassion. Be a man. If you don't report back here that you've got the TL within two weeks, hide your head in shame and watch Steel Magnolias with your toy poodle, kittyboy.

 

Found these comments interesting

1.Boyfriend?...my mom is 49 and has been married to my dad forever

2. I knew that EZ-Pass was coming...didn't know the Honda had a messed up windshield

3. How do you know Joe Casey? That's the guy my aunt and grandfather bought their MDXs from...and Sunnyside Acura is the dealership we've been working with.

4. I'm 17...they pay for MY car, it's not the other way around...lol

5. I'm trying...I want this damn car, and my parents can afford it, but they think the Accord is the same car...and I can't seem to "open their eyes"

Please...wish me luck...I need it

I can tell you one thing...I've decided that I'm gonna do everything in my power to keep them from buying that cheap Accord...because that means we'll never get a TL...I'd rather have them hold out a bit longer, hopefully change their minds, and get the TL this summer or something...but I can't live with an Accord...I know...i'm a snob I guess. I just can't stand the fact that every other car on the Road is an Accord...the car does nothing for me.

 

Kyle:

1. If your mom is 49 and has been married to your dad forever, then yes, she's got a boyfriend.

2. Honda doesn't have a messed up windshield; I'm helping you fabricate a story (lie) to get what you want. Unethical, but it'll help you get ahead.

3. Joe Casey is a member of the TL Underground, a secret society dedicated to the preservation of everything TL. I will contact him and he will double his efforts to pressure your mom. By Saturday, she'll be in an A-Spec once Joe gets ahold of her. Trust me.

4. Go to your dad. Tell him that you want *him* to buy the TL for your mom for mother's day. Since it's his money anyway and her purchase is inevitable, he'll see the charm in helping you surprise her. Oh, and since he knows she has a boyfriend, this will distract him from the pain he must feel.

5. Do your parents have rich friends? If so, invite them and their BMW's over for lunch. Bring up the subject of "we're thinking of buying a Honda over an Acura" and they'll work the magic for you.

Now straighten up and fly right! This is a very important test for you. The ability to manipulate ones parents into an expensive purchase against their better judgement is a 100% precursor to a successful future for you. I talked my dad into buying himself a 1981 Mazda RX-7 when I was your age. If you can't get them to buy you a 4 door sedan, it's going to be a long 30 years ahead Kyle.

No more excuses. I've shown you the way. Get it done. A-Spec by Monday. Go!

 

bolt, first it two weeks, now its an A-spec by monday. gezz, the pressure :lol2:

 

Get things right...

Euro accord = Japan accord = Acura TSX......not difference whatsoever except emblems and very small details.

The US accord platfrom is base on the Honda inspire!!!! .

The acura TL is a mixed of TSX and US accord (honda inspire) it got the best of both worlds.

 

Tell Joe that I already got a quote for $30,600 on a non-navi...if he can't at least match it...no chance...also, we're already working with a salesman there who's been very nice, I wouldn't want to step on his toes.

 

I dont see an entirely different dash as a small detail

 

I was on vacation in Italy a couple of weeks ago and saw only a single Euro-Accord. Except for the H on the grill, it was identical to the TSX. (I wish I could take a TL on the autostrade)

Couple of other differences: TSX is made in Japan, TL is made in Ohio (draw your own conclusions). 18,000 TSX/year vs. 55,000 TL/year.

 

I went to the acura dealer with the intention of buying the TSX. I loved the looks of the car...even more than the TL. I test drove the TL and the TSX back to back..I drove the TSX for 25 minutes-The car felt kind of small and toylike to me although it was fun to whip around corners --although I thought to commute for long periods it may not be for me. I then test drove the TL for like 5 minutes. Every minute was a joy, the acceleration, the handling, the comfort. To me, the car felt much greater than the 30k asking price...The TSX felt more like a 20 grand car to me. I didnt feel the TSX was worth the 28k they were asking...the TL on the other hand felt like it was worth every penny and more.

 

what are you talking about ?????

Yes the TSX is a little different in the interior but nothing to even bring it up.

 

they are different





not 100% different, but different enough to SEE the difference. Regardless, its NOT the same

 

Also.... In Japan, I think they have a car called Inspire ( I think ) which is our version of the Accord and its interior is the American TSX. So they actually switched. Japanese Accord has the American Accord interior and the Japanese Inspire has the American TSX interior.

 

What are YOU talking about? Any damned fool can see the steering wheel is COMPLETELY ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE CAR. If that's not different then I don't know what is. I don't know about you, freak, but I ain't buying a car where I have to reach that far over to grab the steering wheel. It's fundamentally unsafe! Unsound! Unacceptable! I expect the steering wheel to be comfortably within reach. And don't tell me it has tilting and telescoping and all that jazz. Nothing you do to that wheel can make it comfortable for the driver to steer with. Who's stupid idea was that anyway?

 

I laugh at most of the things on this site, because most of the people on here have a great sense of humor. This statement however, was a little out of line.

Kyle, in my opinion, the TSX was noticeably smaller than the TL. Especially the back seat. If you want more room than a "slightly bigger" Civic, go with either the Accord or the TL. The TSX is built well (from my trip to the dealership, and comments on a-tsx forums). I just wanted the power of a V6 and the looks of the TL. The Accord just didn't do it for me.

The TL just imparts a whole different presence than the Accord that can't be described quantitatively (again my opinion). But then again, you are on a TL forum, so most people are a "little" biased towards the TL. I wish you and your family the best of luck with this decision...

 

:lol1: Nice.

 

I test-drove both of them. Drove the TL first, which was unfortunate for the TSX. You can really feel the difference - the TL is just a lot more car... feels heavier, more powerful, etc. Unless paying $6k or $7k more is an absolute deal-breaker, go with the TL.

 

Pames]You need to learn how to manipulate your mom, because your strategies to date aren't working.[/QUOTE]

Don't listen to this guy, he's got Camel interior!

 

it must be weird to drive a manual if you are right handed and the drivers seat is on the right. what does TSX stand for?

 

Poocha, I really want to make sure I understand this:

I should be ashamed to have made a crack about Columbine, but you are 100% a model citizen by proudly displaying in your signature that you spent $400 for a Valentine1 Radar Locater?

News flash: More high school students die on the roads each year as a direct result of speeding than as a consequence of a random shooting by a ratio of about 300:1 I'd estimate.

So shove your twisted morals and your death-speed technology up your fuc*ing ass, okay? Better yet, go do 115 MPH on the Bruckner and shed no tears as you plow into a school bus. But hey- at least you didn't get a ticket, right?

 

TSX vs TL - We have both and I love them both. The TSX was just a little small for me and business guests, or I would have bought another one in a minute.

My wife was looking for a replacement for her '97 Accord and after looking at ALL the smaller luxury cars over a 6-month period, she liked only the 3-series, UNTIL she saw the TSX, and then it was all over. The quality and performance are terriffic, the smooooth 200 hp certainly enough for that small car, and she likes the higher, more upright driving position. I think it is a gorgeous car, maybe cleaner and better looking than the TL. It certainly makes the 3-Series look GROSSLY overpriced. Like the TL, the TSX is a REAL BARGAIN.

One area lacking in the TSX is the audio system - only average, but better drivers may help a lot. At this time, she feels like she will keep this car forever. The TSX even has features they cheated us out of on the TL. If the size is comfortable, go for it!

 

HELLO....everybody knows that....I guess you didn't....it is expected that is why I didn't mention it.

It's in japan....all japanesse cars are the same way....Every car sold in the states from japan (nissan, mazda, honda, toyota) have the steering wheel in the other side in japan.....

 

This is the breakdown:

U.S. Honda Accord = Japan Honda Inspire

Acura TSX = Japan/Euro Honda Accord

Acura TL is only available in U.S. & Canada

05 Acura RL = Japan/Euro Honda Legend

That's 7 cars, 3 different markets, and all of them built on 1 chassis... the Global Midsize Platform

 

I'm not sure about acura RL = euro legend !!!! I whish because I live in europe.

 

(Bitium replies to my comments about the steering wheel being on the wrong side of the car, and therefore too hard to drive.)


OK, are you being funny/sarcastic/witty back at me, or are you just plain stupid?

 

Ive driven both the TSX and TL. I bought the TL cause I wanted a little more luxury and a lot more power. The TSX is a great car and a definate buyers option. I prefer soft toiuch interiors and while the TSX has real good fit and finish, it has a lot of hard plastic. But where its priced I think its a good vehicle for the money. 220 or 240 horsepower would be an awesome addative. But, when I saw the TSX come out last year I was really considering it. I think it is a great design.

 

I have owned both. I think I liked my TSX a little better performance wise. I have a 6spd tl and yes this sucker moves. My problem is the Torque steer issue. If I pund on the TL its all over the place unless I get off the gas. Otherwise I like everything about the car. I just sometimes miss my TSX it was tighter and better built. I think I have had every issue posted here happpen to my TL.

 

Thats too bad u are having so many issues. As a tl owner with vin #36000+ I have had no problems whatsoever so acura appears to have worked out the kinks. I dont even notice hardly any torque steer. Although I did in a TL demo I drove...have your car checked out or drive another TL and compare.

 

Bitium didnt get the joke! :lol2:

 

I'm glad to hear Acura is working things out. I do love the car, It can be a lot to handle sometimes on bad roads. My vin 002387 I think I don't have the # in front of me right now. I was the first 6spd/navi the dealer had. I have had the following issues:
1. Tire vibration (Dealer replace them Pilot sport A/S)
2. Paint chipping off front bumper (Replaced bumber after one attempt at repair. they had to send the original bumper in to be reviewed)
3. Check engine light (4 attempts, they finally replaced 3 sensors and adjusted te valves.. The funny thing is the car performs much better now than it did prior to the repair. My sales person drove the car home for me about a month ago and said he never drove one that was this fast)
4. seat memory loss ( waiting on the part) 5 month backorder.

all I can say is between the two cars one was built in japan and one in the US.


;

 

I had the TSX for one week as a loaner while TL was in the shop (waiting for new part...service dept damage the window seal when they remove the ding on passenger window). Basically the TSX interior has about the same volume though surprisingly the trunk is a little large. The TXS is very tight and nimble a fun car to drive. The engine , a 4 cylinders, is pretty preppy. My only dislike with engine was lack of power a highway cruising. The transmission would hunt back and fourth between 5th and 4th when the gas pedal was pushed slightly to increase speed. I was able to get around this by going to manual shift mode to keep it in 5th. Overall, I would not pay 28K for it. The fully loaded Honday Accord V6, in my opinion ,is a better buy. 25K for the TSX maybe...

 

Good point about the Japan/US thing but your issues are due to a new model change early run car. Any car like that is going to have issues...check the first runs of the Japan built TSX's in the tsx forum. They have problems too..
Sounds like it is all behind you now...hopefully.

 

I would agree, except I bought the TSX right after it came out 001873 Vin, I had the car for 8 months only had one issue.