With the addition of an optional V-6 the new TSX erases the last significant division between itself and the TL sedan that sits above it in Acura's lineup. In fact, all three Acura sedans are now V-6-powered, with front- or all-wheel-drive, or about as easily distinguishable as their names (TSX, TL, and RL). This is not the way to build a hierarchy. Last year's redesign already had the TSX shading the TL's turf, as the car became considerably larger. With premium marques at last showing a dawning awareness that small entries might be palatable to the American consumer, the repositioning of the TSX seemed like a retrograde step.
Although the TSX V-6 strikes me as a strategic blunder, the car itself is hardly unpleasant. Yes, the wider body makes for a more spacious interior. The cabin is suitably plush, although Acura's recent interior designs have been a tad overwrought. The V-6 is strong and (mostly) silent, and torque steer is even well-suppressed.
But I miss the old trim and nimble, four-cylinder, stick-shift, and far more affordable TSX. And judging from the old car's strong resale value, others do too. It's a proposition whose time has come again; although I'd argue that it really never left.
Written by Joe Lorio Senior Editor Automobilemag.com.
Although the TSX V-6 strikes me as a strategic blunder, the car itself is hardly unpleasant. Yes, the wider body makes for a more spacious interior. The cabin is suitably plush, although Acura's recent interior designs have been a tad overwrought. The V-6 is strong and (mostly) silent, and torque steer is even well-suppressed.
But I miss the old trim and nimble, four-cylinder, stick-shift, and far more affordable TSX. And judging from the old car's strong resale value, others do too. It's a proposition whose time has come again; although I'd argue that it really never left.
Written by Joe Lorio Senior Editor Automobilemag.com.
