Acura TSX for lease

Acura TSX

Bigger and stronger
A brand new TSX was launched in 2009. Inspired once again a European model, however, it was longer by almost 7 cm wide by almost 8 cm and placed on a longer wheelbase of 3.5 cm. Much more spacious, it has also been lowered by 1.6 cm, which benefits its silhouette, but it took 77 pounds. However, it was his careful self-supporting body that is gaining appreciable strength, both lateral, vertical or torsional. With an electric power steering faster, a turning circle and suspension as short edited, the new TSX was as agile than its predecessor while offering excellent ride comfort.

However, knowing the one run by the same engine displacement, it was difficult to be optimistic about the performance. However, this 2.4-liter four-cylinder is a cousin of the great engines that are already under the hood of the Accord, Element and CR-V. Its power is almost identical, with a peak of 201 hp at 7000 r / min, but slightly higher torque is delivered to plan a little lower and interim reports of its gearbox (6 speed manual and automatic 5 reports) are multiplied.
Result in figures: acceleration much better, with a 0-100 km / h in 8.51 seconds with the manual and 8.93 seconds with the automatic than previous models while curled similar tests in 9.32 and 10 43 seconds. More subjectively, the new engine is strong and flexible back, a big improvement over the old version.
The manual gearbox is also fast and precise as desired with a thin aluminum knob and leather reminiscent of the late Honda S2000. This is certainly one of the best gearboxes current and is well served by a light and progressive clutch as well as a pedal perfect for heel-toe technique.

The temptation of V6
Because the attraction of additional sales was probably too strong, Acura launched a TSX V6 for 2010. The intention was to create a formal model that bridges the gap between four-cylinder TSX and TL in its range. The engine of this new variant is also that of the TL front-wheel drive, a V6 3.5-liter dual overhead cam head and VTEC variable valve timing that produces 280 horsepower at 6,200 rpm / 254 lb- ft of torque at 5000 r / min.

The performance gain of the TSX V6 of her sisters is very clear, with a 0-100 km / h in 6.89 seconds, despite a weight gain of 95 kilograms. It's a bit better than the 7.06 seconds the TL, which grants him 19 pounds. The sound of the V6 is superb acceleration, with hints of serious discussions and medium regime. The 5-speed automatic transmission is very fine, with gearshifts always very smooth and precise as you can control with levers mounted behind the steering wheel rim. No manual transmission for the V6 TSX.

Again, there was a danger to the balance and finesse of the TSX significant with a heavier engine and powerful under the hood. However, the TSX V6 was first revealed immediately brighter than the full TL AWD tried just before. It shows in the steering wheel that transmits sensations sharper. It is less stable, by cons, and you can feel the torque reaction net acceleration, however, did nothing dramatic for traction as powerful.

Balance intact
Indeed, the TSX V6 appeared to us as balanced and interesting to drive than her sisters. His direction is equally fine, precise and sensitive at the center, with good tactile qualities. She is agile, its handling is sharp and front edge very well in turns. The self-centering of the steering is a little low, cons, and the front could have a little more drag, which would improve directional stability.

Turnover is generally very good and much weaker than in the TL. Indeed, the TSX V6 offers an excellent compromise between comfort and control. A great quietness as well, on the highway. It must be said that the quality of its interior and ergonomics there any harm.
The cabin is bright with excellent seats, well curved and carved. The driving position is perfect. The smooth leather-wrapped steering wheel is superb and very well cut. Secondary controls that are installed for the sound system and cruise control are superb. Which is typical of Acura. The finish is neat, with materials of good quality up against the door.

Similarly, the dials are clear, but the myriad of buttons on the console first asked to be identified and decoded. The dashboard is a little less responsible than some current Acura. That is to say that there is no confusing this profusion of buttons, but there are still too much for the audio and we find no knob to control the air conditioning.

Practical details
Pairing a Bluetooth phone is less easy in the archi-TSX in the TL, but you get there after a brief look at the driver's manual. The sound is excellent too and the little button that can be measured directly the brightness of the screen or turn it off altogether is downright awesome. It's so simple and almost no one other than the Honda and Acura designers thought there.
We also appreciated the lamps that light up the ceiling directly in front by a single press of the thumb or fingers. But here, it's a good idea that should be the best years of Chrysler. Similarly, the video image of the rearview camera on the model tested was equipped with the optional Technology Package, should provide the guide lines as many rivals.
The rear outer seats are very correct with a rather low base, but a cushion cut well and long enough for good support of the thighs. The central square is one of those that occupies only for short trips. The case folds into sections by 60/40 asymmetrical zippers placed in the trunk, but there is no pass-skis. The trunk itself is quite large and easily accessible.

Style and substance
We come to the question of style of the body and especially the design of the grille. You will probably find the first paragraph of the text of many of my colleagues so it creates reactions. Certainly, this new Acura grille, which reminds us a unique edge can opener, is controversial, it is the least we can say. However, it is half as pronounced as on the TSX TL. The rear of the former is also much more traditional and quite successful. The TSX has also won many compliments for its beauty during the test. You be the judge, as always.

Nevertheless, the TSX V6 is one of the best cars I've carried for a long time. It certainly surprised me. Actually I liked a lot the first TSX and I was surprised by the behavior and performance of the new, with the four-cylinder engine. Frankly I feared the addition of the V6, but its integration is quite successful in the TSX, which is rather intriguing.
The important thing is that the TSX V6 is an agile and lightweight alternative to the TL, which can now compete more directly with German tenors among luxury sedans "junior". That's what he needed to come forward. And the series will soon be enriched version of a family sport, which should further increase its appeal.