10th Place: Acura TSX

Overview:

Like the Kia Amanti, the Acura TSX delivers a premium feel to a mainstream price bracket. But while consumers might expect an extra level of luxury more from an Acura than a Kia, it is the off-brand Korean car that offers the more traditional comfort and luxury. The much smaller Acura feels like a more expensive car by offering a combination of a luxury-level interior with the feel of a $30-thousand-something sports sedan. As such, it is nimble and fun to drive, but it doesn't have the same smooth, silent ride as the Amanti and many others in this group. Though both feel more expensive than they are and are priced similarly (the Kia is actually more expensive), they are not a logical pair to cross-shop.

Driving the TSX:

The TSX has a firmer ride than most of the other car in this group, and while it is very well-controlled, it is not especially absorbent. Its crisp steering helps make this car the sharpest car in the group in routine driving, but the steering's lightness gives it the feel of a more easygoing car than some other sports or attempted-sports sedans. The naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter I4, the only available engine, is lacking in power compared compared to the turbos and six-cylinders found in the other cars in this group, but it is adequate for daily driving. The engine is smooth and generally quiet, but road noise could be better suppressed. Gas mileage is excellent compared to the more powerful cars in this group.

Inside the TSX:

The TSX's front seats are firm, supportive, and comfortable, though not particularly large. The rear seat is comfortable, but head room is lacking. Leg and foot space is surprisingly generous considering the TSX's compact exterior dimensions, but many of the group's larger cars have more space. The interior’s luxury-level materials fit together very well. The gauges are clear, and the instruments are logically arrayed. Drivers don’t sit as high as in many competitors here, but still have good visibility in all directions. The trunk is small for a family car, but well-shaped.

TSX pricing:

The TSX comes standard with most of the features that the others here charge extra for, but starts at a much higher price. As such, adding options would push it over the group's price ceiling, so the only features it includes besides those expected in this group are a power passenger seat, xenon headlights, and a wireless cell phone link.

Conclusion:

2008 is the last year for the current TSX. The redesigned 2009 model that is already on sale is more spacious and more powerful, but more expensive. If you're looking for a good luxury sports sedan at mainstream prices, get the 2008 while you still can.

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