Review: 2010 Acura TSX Sedan Features, Listed Prices, Invoice

The 2010 Acura TSX can once again boast of its long list of standard equipment, roomy and comfortable cabin, high-grade build and materials quality, excellent crash test ratings .... and for the first time ... its availability in an engaging V6 trim.

Yes, new for 2010 is an available 280 horsepower V6 version with sportier suspension tuning, a revised steering system and larger wheels. And this has resulted in kind of a "tale of two cars" when it comes to the 2010 TSX.

While the new V6 model is a lively and fun-to-drive new sedan, the four-cylinder model remains a bit "ho hum" when it comes to driving performance. That said, there's no question that both models offer comfort, refinement, the latest high-tech gizmos and the kind of solid construction quality Acura is famous for.

Trims, Standard Features And Options:

The 2010 Acura TSX is classified as a compact entry-level luxury sedan and is offered in two trims: base and V6.

Both models are very well equipped with standard features on the base including a sunroof, leather upholstery, Bluetooth, satellite radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-way power driver seat, driver memory functions, a 4-way power passenger seat, foglights, 17 inch wheels, xenon headlights, a tilt/telescoping steering column, heated front seats, a 60/40-split-folding rear seatback, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a 7-speaker audio system with a CD player, a USB port and an auxiliary audio jack.

The TSX V6 obviously adds the larger engine, but it also comes with 18 inch wheels, a firmer suspension and revised steering assist ... all for better performance and handling.

Available options include the Technology package which adds a voice-recognition navigation system with real-time traffic and weather, plus a rearview camera and a 10-speaker Acura/ELS surround-sound audio system with an in-dash 6-CD/DVD changer.

Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:

Powering the front-wheel-drive 2010 TSX are a choice of two engines. The first is the standard 2.4 liter inline-4 that produces a capable 201 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque (172 pound-feet with the manual transmission). The other available engine is a 3.5 liter V6 that's good for a robust 280 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. Available transmissions include a 6-speed manual (on the four-cylinder only) or a 5-speed automatic with steering-wheel shift paddles.

In performance tests, a manual four-cylinder TSX was timed from a standstill to 60 mph in a decent, but uninspiring, 7.7 seconds (add about 1 second for the automatic). The V6, on the other hand, did the same sprint in a very quick, and very competitive, 6.4 seconds.

The EPA-estimated gas mileage for the four-cylinder/automatic TSX comes in at 21 mpg city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the manual is rated not far behind at 21 city and 28 highway. Gas mileage for the TSX V6 drops only slightly to 18 mpg city and 27 highway.

Safety:

With Acura's high emphasis on safety, standard safety features on both 2010 TSX models include antilock brakes (ABS) with brake assist, traction control, stability control, front seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.

The 2010 Acura TSX also aced all government crash tests, earning a perfect five-star rating in all front and side-impact tests for both driver and passenger protection.

Interior:

The TSX's cabin is attractive and well-designed with high quality materials and workmanship. While not luxuriously opulent, most will apreciate its sporty look and feel. The seats are also both supportive and comfortable.

In addition, and although a compact, the TSX has nearly the same interior room as the larger TL sedan as well as a decent size trunk with 12.6 cubic feet of storage capacity.

Drive:

The drive for either 2010 TSX model is compliant and quiet when cruising down highways. Acceleration is decent in the four-cylinder manual but gets subdued a bit with the 5-speed automatic, although the shifts are smooth and well-timed. Overall, the four-cylinder offers a pretty enjoyable driving experience on those back twisty roads with limited body roll and strong grip in the corners.

More performance-oriented drivers, however, would likely be more pleased with the V6 due to its impressive power and engaging personality, without sacrificing too much in terms of fuel economy.

Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower TSX Prices:

Acura's sales have been weak for months now, right along with the other carmakers and evidence of a continuing poor economy. The bottom line? The current combination of a soft market along with fierce dealer competition has created the perfect opportunity for nailing down great deals.

How To Buy A New TSX At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2010 Acura TSX, here's exactly how to buy one at the lowest price, especially given the current slow car market.

Prices:

2010 Audi A4 Sedan

Base, 4-Cyl, manual: listed price: $29,310, invoice price: $27,359
Base, 4-Cyl, auto: $29,310, invoice price: $27,359

Base, w/Tech Pkg, 4-Cyl, manual: listed price: $32,410, invoice price: $30,202
Base, w/Tech Pkg, 4-Cyl, auto: listed price: $32,410, invoice price: $30,202

Base, V6, auto: listed price: $34,850, invoice price: $32,439
Base, w/Tech Pkg, V6, auto: listed price: $37,950, invoice price: $35,282

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