2010 Acura TSX

The second-generation Acura TSX debuted in 2009, sporting bold love-it-or-hate-it sheet metal and an underwhelming 2.4-liter four-cylinder as the only choice under the hood.

But that put the TSX at a disadvantage against other premium compact sport sedans—like the Audi A4 and BMW 3-Series—that offered more powerful 6-cylinder options.

Well, Acura has now responded. The 2010 TSX is available with a free-breathing 3.5-liter V6 from big brother TL. It’s rated at 280 horsepower, for 40% more go.

“With the new V6, the TSX is now complete. The extra power was much-needed, and it mates well with the 6-speed paddle shift automatic. Plus, the TSX V6 feels so much more nimble than the 4-cylinder car, and that’s saying something. And they managed to do it without destroying the ride.” – Shamit Choksey

For the V6, each corner of the cross-braced chassis adds higher spring and damper rates, 18-inch wheels, and high-performance rubber. The TSX’s electric steering is retuned for crisper response. A larger brake master cylinder coupled to a revised pedal ratio also improves the TSX’s ability to stop. 

Besides wheels, a revised front fascia for better engine cooling, and a discreet V6 badge on the trunk lid, there is little on the exterior to distinguish the TSX V6 from the 4-cylinder car.

The curvaceous, businesslike interior is little-changed, too, except for V6-exclusive one-touch ignition, a revised tachometer, and the addition of Active Sound Control to undercut powertrain noise and vibration issues.

The TSX V6 also undercuts its rivals in price staring under $35,000. It’s in dealerships now.

 

 

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