Chicago 2009: Acura unveils TSX V6 for 2010
by Jeremy Korzeniewski on Feb 11th 2009 at 4:59PM 
Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Acura TSX V6
Acura fans have something to rejoice about today as the Japanese automaker just released a new model here at the Chicago Auto Show. Before you get too excited, know that it's not rear-wheel-drive or powered by a V8 engine, but it's still a nice addition to the line-up. For the 2010 model year, the front-wheel-drive TSX sedan will be available with a 280-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine (most likely a version of the same engine offered in the Honda Accord, though Acura didn't confirm). The package also includes a slightly revised front fascia, retuned suspension system and new 18-inch wheels that are a full inch larger than the ones that come standard on the four-cyliner model. Acura says this new TSX model is a harbinger of good things to come, as the automaker plans to heavily revise all of its models for the upcoming model year. While we wait for that to take place, sales of the new V6 TSX should begin later this summer.
Gallery: 2010 Acura TSX V6
Gallery: 2010 Acura TSX V6
Live photos copyright ©2009 Jeremy Korzeniewski / Weblogs, Inc.
PRESS RELEASE
2010 Acura TSX V-6 Debuts at Chicago Auto Show
More Powerful TSX Blows into the Windy City
CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 - Acura debuted an all-new V-6 model for its TSX sports sedan line-up at the Chicago Auto Show today. Scheduled to go on sale this summer, the 2010 TSX V-6 will be equipped with a powerful 3.5-liter engine, exclusive suspension tuning, larger diameter wheels and additional enhancements.
"The automotive market may be slowing down, but not Acura," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With improved acceleration and handling, the new 280 horsepower V-6 adds even more sport to the already sporty nature of the popular TSX sports sedan."
Since its redesign last year, the TSX has shattered sales records to become one of Acura's best-selling sedans. As the entry point to the Acura brand, the four-cylinder TSX has won over customers with its nimble handling, agile driving feel and balanced performance. The V-6 model adds a new level of power on top of these winning traits for a more sporty and spirited driving experience. The V-6 will surely satisfy driving enthusiast's appetite for a fun-to-drive, yet refined sports sedan.
With the introduction of a V-6 powered TSX, Acura will fill a niche in its lineup between the four-cylinder TSX and the all-new TL performance luxury sedan. With the TL moving more upscale following its redesign in the 2009 model year, the TSX V-6 will be aimed squarely at youthful buyers who want a performance-oriented sports sedan in a more personal size.
Powertrain
A new TSX powertrain choice means performance luxury buyers can enjoy a 280 horsepower 3.5L V-6, with sophisticated VTEC® valvetrain control and a dual-stage induction system. For maximum performance and efficiency, the engine will be coupled to Acura's Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, with intelligent features such as Grade Logic Control and Shift Hold Control. If the driver desires, the Sequential SportShift transmission can also be operated manually, via steering-wheel mounted F1®-style paddle shifters.
Body/Chassis
The new TSX model will feature a state-of-the-art, double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension system to provide excellent ride, handling and control. To generate sportier handling, the V-6 model will also use exclusive suspension tuning along with 18-inch split five-spoke aluminum wheels, fit with Michelin Pilot all-season tires. The larger wheels and tires will help distinguish this performance- minded TSX, as does the slightly revised front fascia and a V-6 badge on the trunk.
The TSX V-6 model will be generously equipped with the latest advancements in safety technology and is anticipated to achieve the highest ratings in both government (NHTSA)* and independent (IIHS) crash testing - including garnering IIHS's TOP SAFETY PICK.
Interior
Like all Acura models, the new TSX will feature an exceptional level of standard equipment, including leather-appointed interior, power moonroof, automatic climate control, a premium seven-speaker sound system with CD, AM/FM tuner, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® , USB port and AUX jack music interface and more.
Similar to the four-cylinder TSX, the V-6 model will be available with the optional Technology Package that includes the Acuralink™ satellite navigation system with rear-view camera and the Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system for a top-in-class audio experience.
The introduction of the TSX V-6 at the Chicago Auto Show is the first step in a series of major advancements to the 2010 Acura lineup. Almost every Acura sedan and SUV will receive significant enhancements for the 2010 model year.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 4)
Joe K. 5:04PM (2/11/2009)
Well that takes care of one problem, now what about the grill?
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geo.stewart 6:43PM (2/11/2009)
yep, while its not as offensive on the gray vehicle, the rest are horrid.
doesnt change the fact that the Forte looks better
nighttime__ 8:32PM (2/11/2009)
I don't see why Honda US hasn't changed it,
they changed it for us, in Australia.
http://euro.honda.com.au/?WT.ac=HP_Euro_WCOTY
j 9:21AM (2/12/2009)
I wish they would have released this to begin with, would have looked into this considerably and just swap out the grill w/ a euro spec accord grill or something
Seminole 5:06PM (2/11/2009)
I am stunned. Wow. They actually did it.
So is the 4 banger dead now?
Maybe Acura is serious about being a contender.
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Sea Urchin 5:15PM (2/11/2009)
Well they are a contender, from what i hear cars are fun to drive, loaded with tech and are affordable. Contrast that with a BMW.
Seminole 5:23PM (2/11/2009)
I actually drive a BMW. As far as comparing, BMW's are VERY fun to drive, do have a lot of technology (although optional), the affordable bit, eh, not so much.
I cross shopped the TSX heavily. In fact, it came down to my 328i or the TSX. The BMW felt much more solid than the TSX. The 3 is also much better in the handling department, plus it is RWD while the TSX is FWD. While the TSX had many features that are optional on the BMW, I got a great deal on my BMW that made it only a few thousand more than the TSX would have cost, and at that price it was hard to say no.
With BMW increasing their prices, the 3 series is moving out of my price range for when I replace my current one in 4 years. Depending on how much more Acura will charge for the V6, the TSX is a very good candidate at being my next car.
denton 5:58PM (2/11/2009)
well not exactly. according to the article the inline 4 isn't dead (yet). it mentions that acura is offering the v6 as part of an optional package.
ken_aisin 8:45PM (2/11/2009)
They'll be serious when they hire a design house such as Pininfarina, Giugiaro, or Bertone to replace their current design team.
By the way, that hideous grill could possibly be the ugliest grill of the decade.
subzerohf 11:43PM (2/11/2009)
That grill....arghhhhh!
JB 5:10PM (2/11/2009)
I woulda changed the plenum issue before I woulda dropped a V6 in it. When gas hits $8/gallon due to hyperinflation, the snout will still be ugly as well as a less fuel efficient.
Leave it to Acura to make themselves more irrelevant.
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MikeW 5:44PM (2/11/2009)
Dead on!
Why didn't Honda just shorten the gearing of the 5 speed automatic. 3rd gear doesn't need to hit 110mph, 95mph will do. 2nd doesn't need to hit 70, 60 will be fine, 1st to 35 not 40.
Shorten 4 for a better top speed, Shorten 5th for better cruising on hills.
or a 6 speed auto, or 7, or 8 speed auto.
Aki 5:10PM (2/11/2009)
Put SH-AWD in there as well as a new grill and you have a compelling car.
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John 11:00AM (2/12/2009)
Why 2008 Chicago Autoshow? I thought it was 2009?
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Corey L 5:14PM (2/11/2009)
Wonder what the weight differences are between a) the current I4, b) Blown I4 from RDX, and c) the implied 3.5L V6...
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Ken 5:18PM (2/11/2009)
Wait!!!
Isn't the point of this car to be SMALL, LIGHT, and ECONOMICAL? The original one was all of these. People who want to deal with a good marque, but did not want a 15 MPG land yacht (think: Lexus IS). Now Acura has bloated the car and stuffed a bigger engine in it.
Don't get me wrong, SH-AWD + the nice V6 is awesome, but how about a real entry level car. 200 HP 2.4 liter from the Accord (at 190, would be easy to find an extra 10 HP), 6-speed stick, good brakes and suspension, and start it under $30k? Something that would be fun to drive, easy to park, and get you 30+ MPG on the freeway.
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blotto 5:23PM (2/11/2009)
Honda/Acura needs to resurrect something like the Integra/RSX.
For example, something that will spank the BMW 1 series as a benchmark target.
Come on Honda, you guys have stuff in your parts bin and design DNA that can do it!
Screw your Tier 1 ambitions. Just make cars that people actually want to buy first!
Seminole 5:26PM (2/11/2009)
You just described the current TSX....
2.4L 4 cylinder with 201hp, your choice of 6-sp manual or 5-sp auto, 28mpg on the highway, and all starting at just over $29,000.
Yikes 5:43PM (2/11/2009)
I see someone also point out.
The base TSX is under 30K 200+hp from the Accord 2.4, 6-speed manual.......
Rev 6:47PM (2/11/2009)
I don't see how an "upscale" econocar could ever come close to touching the BMW 1 series. An RSX can't even compete with a Cobalt and the TSX manages to make a Camry seem like an exciting and sexy alternative - where does BMW fit in the picture???
There is no comparison in any way, shape or form. Honda can try til the cows come home but whatever they make wouldn't be able to compete with a WRX or MS3 as far as performance goes, so why would a BMW driver want to consider an "upscale" Honda? Especially with much sportier offerings from Infiniti and Lexus. Or heck, even VW...
And goodness, the cheap, buttonfest interior, generic looks and FWD aren't going to win many BMW drivers over, let alone Infinit/Lexus buyers...