For the very first generation of the TSX, it was actually sold as Honda Accord in Europe. The only difference is the front grille but overall it was a very beautiful vehicle. However, the silhouette look a little boxy and the wheels look a bit too big for the size of the vehicle. Obviously, Acura had made a big move with the TSX second generation, but the result is still uncertain.

As you can expect from Honda/Acura products, the interior is excellent with great style, ergonomics, fit and finish. The material on the dashboard look quite busy but it still looks simple enough to use. There are lots of toys and gadgets including the GPS-based navigation, review camera (Technology TSX), and the satellite radio. It can be quit over whelming when you first sit inside, but it becomes intuitive after a few hours reading the TSX manual and some time behind the wheel. The build quality in this 2009 Acura TSX is excellent, as you would expect from Acura and that create a sense of style and quality.

For a tall person, getting inside the vehicle is not an easy job. The roofline is rather low and the limited head space can make you easily hit your head on the door frame. It can be uncomfortable for longer drives because the front seats lack good thigh support. On the other hand, the design, visual, comfortable suspension and the steering wheel provide a good grip. Overall the 2009 Acura TSX riding experience feel a bit strange because Acura typically produce sport oriented sedans with firm riding experience.

2009 Acura TSX’s engine
The first generation of the TSX comes with 205 horsepower and the second generation is now at 201 horsepower. It is unheard of in the auto industry where the newer model has less horsepower, although the drop in horsepower is by a very little amount.

The 2009 Acura TSX comes with a very reliable 2.4L, 4 cylinder i-VTEC engine. This is a great engine which performs very efficiently. The power to fuel economy ratio is commendable despite the loss of some pony and some weight gain. On average, the low revs result in 8.9 liters per 100 kilometers. Also, the torque has been increased from 164 to 172 pounds-feet.

The 2009 Acura TSX comes with the 5-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. This enhances the vehicle’s driving experience and giving it more sporty and more aggressive driving experience.

The experience feels a little bit artificial when it comes to the steering because it feels overly assisted. However, in spite of the feelings of heaviness in the corners and average handling the new 2009 Acura TSX is fairy a fun car to drive.

Let’s talk about the brakes, it perform as average in most situation. Considering the 2009 Acura TSX had put on some weight, 50-90 kilos (depending on the trim level), the 2009 Acura TSX is capable to stop and slow down without any issue.

Competition
Other rivals are Volkswagen Passat 2.0T ($29,975), Volvo S40 ($31,495), and Saab 9-3 ($35,950). Also other luxury models are Mercedes-Benz C-Class ($35,800), BMW 3-Series ($35,900), Audi A4 ($35,350) and Lexus IS ($31,900).

Conclusion
The 2009 Acura TSX comes with high level of quality and good overall performance. Although, some potential buyers might get put off with the exterior design. The driving dynamics also is not something that lives up with Acura’s standard compare to other Acura vehicles we have tested in the past. With all that said, if you are looking for a European-Accord kind of vehicle, then the 2009 Acura TSX provides great value.