Acura gave up on hardcore performance (think Type-R) a couple of years ago, turning itself into a copy of Lexus ever since. So it's no surprise that when it redesigned the TSX, the car would grow larger and more comfortable, to sit well next to the crossover SUVs on the showroom floor. But why isn't it more powerful? And why must it seem so... bulky?
The TSX formula hasn't changed much. It's still a gussied-up, slightly twisted version of the Euro-market Honda Accord. Compared to the old TSX, it's 2.2 inches longer, three inches wider, runs a 1.4-inch longer wheelbase and is heavier by 167 pounds. Not as big as the current TL (though now about a quarter-inch wider), but the TL itself is due for reinvention.
Despite the thicker shoulders and additional heft, the only engine available is the same 2.4-liter, i-VTEC, Premium-drinking four from the original TSX, slightly re-tuned for better mid-range torque. However, that extra grunt costs 4bhp at peak-a drop from 205 to 201. Six-speed manual and five-speed automatic transaxles are offered again, with the automatic sporting a manual shift action via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Fortunately, Honda's Accord-class chassis returns, with double wishbones suspending each front wheel and a multi-link independent suspension in back. Steering remains accurate and light, and the four-wheel disc brakes with ABS stop with easily modulated precision. Beyond that, the 17-inch wheels are now half an inch wider and wear 225/50R17 Michelin Pilot HX all-season tires.
Like the new-this-year North American Accord, the traditional Honda low cowl/large greenhouse design has been sacrificed in favor of a massive dashboard and taller doorsills. The big dash accommodates many electronic wonders and dozens of airbags, but it results in an interior with a certain bunker-like feel. It's not bad compared to, say, a Pontiac G6. But the old TSX cockpit was a more inviting place, with better visibility.
Of all the stuff shoved into the new TSX (dual-zone climate control, a multi-function display, digital compass and Bluetooth cell phone connectivity, among many others) it's the sound systems that are most impressive. Standard kit is a seven-speaker system with a USB controller port that is flat fantastic-sounding and even interfaces well with an Apple iPhone. But stepping up to the Technology Package brings a spectacular 10-speaker set-up that probably sounds better than most live musicians. It's awesome.
The Technology Package also includes navigation with voice recognition, a rear-view camera and the AcuraLink satellite communication system. If that's the sort of stuff that gives you thrills, put this magazine down now and go get a copy of Wired.
