The 2012 Acura TSX ranks well in the arena of upscale small cars. It combines utility and performance that are well suited for families. Upscale small cars are known to concentrate on performance rather than utility.
Acura must have found a way to combine both. As a result, car shoppers have a better option and that is the 2012 TSX.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $30,010.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L) | MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy |
| Length: 185.6 in. (471.5 cm) | Wheel Base: 106.5 in. (2705 cm) |
| Height: 56.6 in. (144 cm) | Width: 72.4 in. (184 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3479 lbs (1578 kg) | Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (15 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 14 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 2.4L Inline4 DOHC, i-VTEC® | Compression Ratio: 11.0: 1 |
| Horsepower: 201 HP | Max RPM: 7000 RPM |
| Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm | Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic |
| Option:TSX Special Edition MT | MSRP: $31,010; MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy |
| Option:TSX w/ Tech Package | MSRP: $33,110; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy |
| Option:TSX V6 | MSRP: $35,550; MPG: 19 city / 27 hwy |
| Option:TSX V6 w/ Tech Package | MSRP: $38,650; MPG: 19 city / 27 hwy |
Engine
The base 2012 TSX model comes with a 4-cylinder 2.4 liter engine that delivers 201 horsepower and 170 lbs/f of torque. This engine is paired with an automatic 5-speed transmission but car shoppers have the option to go for the 6-speed manual transmission. The other engine is a V6 3.5 liter engine that brings 280 horsepower and 254 lbs/ft of torque. It is only available with the 5-speed automatic transmission.
Performance
We prefer the V6 because it provides more power which makes merging and passing easier. The transmission is smooth and it greatly helps. If you are not after more power, the 2.4 liter engine is nevertheless adequate. We give good credits to Acura for making excellent engine options. The new TSX has good handling, but not on heavily curved roads because it has the tendency to understeer especially if you want a wide turn. Nonetheless, the brakes are responsive and can smoothly and swiftly stop the car.
Exterior
The front layout of the new TSX is sharp with its narrow headlights and front grille. The car does not have many lines and overstated curves, this makes it look neat. The TSX does not look sporty because its appearance tends to lean more on being serious. Its overall design might not be the one that youngsters would prefer but certainly, those who are in an older age bracket with a family will.
Interior
The quality of materials used for the TSX interior is excellent. The number of standard features is also attractive. In fact, the TSX may have all that shoppers are looking for from a base model. However, the 2012 TSX inherits the problems common in small cars. Its rear seat does not seem to occupy very tall adults comfortably. You would have to reserve it for the kids. The front seat, nonetheless, has plenty of legroom and headroom. The TSX also offers good outward visibility, another thing that we appreciate.
Safety
The 2012 Acura TSX received a “Good” score in all the tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, making it their Top Safety Pick. The federal government tested it but only for rollover. The car was given 5 out of 5 stars.
Reliability
The 2012 TSX comes with a standard 4-year warranty, a powertrain warranty that lasts for six years, a 5 year corrosion warranty and 24 hour road assistance that lasts for four years. One unusual warranty from Acura is the 15 year seat belt warranty. Acura has one of the most comprehensive warranties in the market.
Pros
The 2012 TSX has great engine options that are capable in city and highway driving. The quality of interior materials is excellent and there is a handful of standard features. The overall build is sturdy and the handling is good. Its fuel economy rating is good for its class. It is a Top Safety Pick of the IIHS.
Cons
Handling the TSX can get difficult during wide turns. The center console has too many buttons that can be confusing for the user.
With all its amazing features paired with top-of-the-class quality, the 2012 Acura TSX gives great value for your money – it is perfect for your young family.
Competition
The TSX is reasonably priced in comparison to the Lexus IS250 (MSRP $34,965; 21 city / 30 hwy), the Audi A4 (MSRP $32,500; 22 city / 30 hwy), and the BMW 3 Series (MSRP $34,900; 23 city / 34 hwy) which gets the best mileage amongst those previously mentioned.
Overall Rating
77 out of 100
What others say:
“The Acura TSX handles well for a front-wheel-drive sedan, and while the four-cylinder has enough gusto the V-6 adds some extra punch.”Car Connection
“This premium compact carves corners with grippy assurance and little body lean. V6 models are subject to some torque-steer wander, but it’s fairly well controlled. The electronic steering system offers light effort at low speeds but firms up nicely on the highway or twisty mountain roads. The brakes deliver short, controlled stops.”Consumer Guide
“The TSX is pleasant and mildly sporty, and available as either a sedan or wagon. Its smooth-revving engine, slick transmission, and agile handling make it enjoyable to drive.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“The 2012 Acura TSX sedan adds a new Special Edition Package consisting of several exterior design upgrades, unique red interior illumination, and microfiber seat inserts with red stitching. ”KBB
“Though not quite as compelling as a couple other rivals, the 2012 Acura TSX is nonetheless a smart choice for an entry-level luxury sedan or wagon.”Edmunds
