chrisgopher

Hey guys, currently on the market for a new car (buying) and was wondering why ILX owners chose that car instead of the TSX? Super curious and would like to know, down to the bone, what were the compelling factors...

I am just super on the fence about these two cars... so hard to decide

appmastertech

Have you driven both? which models are you looking into? 2.0L or 2.4L ILX? There is a lot of things to consider.

tsxinva

Only reason for me was the hybrid model. This TSX was not a consideration for me. I previously had a 2007 TSX and was not a fan when they changed body styles.

00TL-P3.2

When I get to that point, I think the ILX looks better, it's a little smaller & the TSX 6MT only comes in 3 colors.

I really liked the 1st generation TSX, never been a huge fan of the current generation.

opboarding

ilx

spdandpwr

Advantages the TSX base has over the ILX w/ premium package:
1. memory seats
2. power passenger seats
3. side mirror turn signal indicators
4. made in japan vs. made in usa
5. AC vents for rear passengers
6. seatback storage pockets on the driver seat
7. TSX has better side bolsters.
8. 60/40 folding rear seat
9. better leather

Advantages the ILX premium w/ premium package over the TSX base:
1. Pandora
2. SMS text displaying/reading capabilities
3. Backup camera
4. Push button start
5. Keyless access
6. 5" color display
7. smaller / easier to park with very little compromise in space

Neutral/Debatable features
1. TSX uses a timing chain, ILX uses a timing belt
2. TSX uses the double-wishbone and rear multi-link suspensions, ILX uses a combination of MacPherson struts for the front suspension and a multi-link arrangement in the rear

00TL-P3.2

Does the ILX use a timing belt?
Looked on the Acura site & it says chain driven on all 3 engines.

spdandpwr

You're absolutely right! I pasted my comment from another poster in another thread and forgot to delete that error.

terdonal

To add to the above

ILX nicer looking (subjective)
ILX 6mt faster than TSX 6mt
ILX 6mt gas mileage a little better than TSX 6mt
ILX ride not as firm as TSX ride
ILX smaller, lighter easier to handle in city imo
ILX takes up less room in the garage
ILX seems to have more room in the back seat
ILX in Canada no TPMS
ILX in Canada has much lower price and $3000.00 discount now if purchasing

TSX 6mt handles better than ILX 6mt on highway and on curves
TSX 6mt quieter inside and out vs ILX 6mt
TSX 6mt stereo slightly better than ILX 6mt stereo
TSX easier to get in and out of than ILX for an old fart like me with back issues
TSX has adjustable lumbar support but didn't miss it in ILX
TSX seats a little bigger than ILX
TSX has homelink ILX only available in Tech package
TSX outside mirror drops down in reverse but ILX back up camera is so much better to have.
TSX has more storage cubbies but console smaller than ILX as is glove compartment
TSX has larger storage in doors
TSX has sunglass compartment
TSX trunk a little larger
TSX has TPMS
TSX more expensive in Canada by a fair amount

That is all I have noticed so far. Both are nice cars you need to drive and see how they fit your driving and your pocket book.

spdandpwr

I noticed you moved from an ILX to a TSX and I did the exact opposite, so I do have to say it's contingent on your needs.

Trentimus

I picked the ILX because it completely fit the bill for what I needed.. Styling also had a huge impact as well as the fun-to-drive aspect..

Perks to the ILX:
First Acura to look awesome with a beak.
Inside build quality is best in class and looks like a 2013
Keyless entry, push start
Does what Honda does best, manual transmission with a revvy 4 cylinder.

terdonal

Definitley.
If my back hadn't been acting up I would never have done it. I was very surprised that I found it easier to get in and out of the TLX and the discount on the 2012 ASPEC with 20 kilometers on it helped make the the descion easier to life with.

I like the looks of the ILX more and the push button start, rear view camera, 3 blink lane changer, sporty sound are missed already.

terdonal

I agree with you. The ILX has a lot to offer over the TSX especially with the pricing in Canada. It is a smart looking little car, inside and out and in the 6mt even more of a thrill to drive.

terdonal

If you are interested in a 6mt the TSX has rev hang which my ILX didn't have. I never noticed the rev hang in the used TSX 6mt I drove but sure notice it in my new one. I don't really like that feature so far, maybe will just take some getting used to.

Trentimus

I think the main thing the TSX has over the ILX for me is the firm steering, more confident ride in turns, and the road noise is significantly reduced.

For modders though the ILX I imagine will be corrected in steering and confidence with coilovers and sway bars.

chrisgopher

Yeah, most of the gripes I have about the ILX can be fixed via modifications. (Sway bars, springs, and even has ecu upgrade!!) TSX is not very aftermarket friendly and that might pose a problem for me in the future. However, I am very attracted to the fact that the TSX is made in Japan, and that sweeeet ass.

How is the quality, if possible, compared to the TSX? Reliability is a huge factor for me because this car is meant to be a keeper for the long haul. I feel a bit iffy about the car being made in Indiana vs Japan... thoughts?

terdonal

Yes you are definitely right about steering, road noise and handling in the turns but I was satisfied with the ILX as it was, not much of a modder at my age. Just my darn back that caused me to change.

I will continue to watch you guys and your modifications on the ILX to make it a sweeter ride than it already is.

aaronnn

I went into dealer wanting a manual car. No TSX manuals in several different dealers. Then they told me why not the ILX. Drove it then bought it.

I used to have an RSX Type-S and my roommate had a TSX 6MT. I always liked manual acura's.. I wanted to get back in one, but to get a tsx manual was too much searching.

The ILX, you look for the 2.4 model and they only come in manual so it made my life easier. Plus it ended up being way cheaper than expected. I like this car alot.. and the little noises, squishiness, etc doesn't bother me too much. It's a nice change from my loud ass subarus.