You remember it, don't you? That sleek yet unassuming sedan that caught your eye back in the mid-2000s. The one that slid under the radar of most while still attracting enthusiasts and value seekers alike. We're talking about the Acura TSX, of course! Produced from 2004 to 2008, the first generation TSX offered an intoxicating blend of luxury, performance, quality and value that's hard to beat even today. Though overshadowed at the time by flashier models, the TSX built up a loyal following of drivers who appreciated its refinement, handling and "just right" size. If you were lucky enough to experience one new or have owned one since, you know why it's still so fondly remembered. For everyone else, let's take a trip down memory lane and rediscover Acura's forgotten gem, the 2004 to 2008 TSX.

2004-2008 Acura TSX: Specs and Key Features

The 2004-2008 Acura TSX was a sporty yet practical sedan that offered an enjoyable driving experience for enthusiasts on a budget. If you're looking for an affordable, reliable used car, the TSX should be at the top of your list!

• Under the hood, the TSX had a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produced 200 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. This gave the TSX plenty of pep for merging onto highways or passing on back roads. For those who preferred to shift gears themselves, a six-speed manual transmission was available.

• The TSX provided a comfortable, well-appointed cabin with supportive seats, high-quality materials, and user-friendly controls. There was seating for five adults, though rear legroom was a bit cramped. Cargo space measured 13 cubic feet, perfect for road trips.

• Standard features on the TSX included a sunroof, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and a power driver's seat. Options included a navigation system, xenon headlights, and a rear spoiler.

• Reliability and low maintenance needs are hallmarks of Honda vehicles. The TSX was very dependable, and routine service was minimal. Fuel economy ranged from 21 mpg city to 29 mpg highway, so you wouldn't have to empty your wallet at the gas station either!

If you're looking for an enjoyable yet practical vehicle, the 2004-2008 Acura TSX is a fantastic, budget-friendly choice. This forgotten gem has style, comfort, performance and dependability that stands the test of time. Hop in the driver's seat of a TSX and experience the thrill of this hidden treasure for yourself!

The History of the Acura TSX - How the TSX Came to Be

The Acura TSX has quite the origin story. Introduced in 2004, it was a rebadged Honda Accord designed for the European market that Acura brought stateside. You instantly fell in love with its sporty handling, luxury touches, and value.

A European Accord

The TSX was based on the Honda Accord sold in Europe and Japan, so it had a shorter wheelbase and overall length than the U.S. Accord. This made it more nimble and fun to drive, perfect for enthusiast drivers seeking an upscale yet affordable sport sedan.

• The 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder produced 200 horsepower, giving the TSX plenty of pep.

• A 6-speed manual transmission was standard, with a 5-speed automatic optional.

• Standard features included leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and a premium stereo.

• The TSX handled like a dream thanks to its fully independent suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.

Instant Success

The TSX was an instant hit, winning a spot on Car and Driver’s Ten Best list for its first three years. You and other driving enthusiasts appreciated its dynamic, well-rounded personality that delivered an exciting driving experience with few compromises.

The first-generation Acura TSX will always be remembered as a hidden gem in Acura’s lineup. Though overshadowed by the larger TL at the time, its lively spirit and luxury delivered at an affordable price point earned it a special place in the hearts of drivers and automotive journalists alike. The TSX proved that thrilling things really do come in small packages!

Why You Should Buy a 2004-2008 TSX - The Forgotten Acura Gem

Why You Should Buy a 2004-2008 TSX - The Forgotten Acura Gem

Looking for an enjoyable yet affordable used luxury sedan? The 2004 to 2008 Acura TSX deserves your attention. This spunky sedan is packed with perks yet often overlooked, making it a hidden gem.

The TSX provides a peppy performance from its 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, cranking out 200 horsepower. While not blisteringly fast, it delivers energetic acceleration and responsive handling that will thrill driving enthusiasts. For those seeking maximum fuel economy, the TSX achieves up to 28 mpg on the highway.

Inside, the TSX coddles you with high-quality materials and the latest technology. Enjoy the concert-quality ELS premium sound system and keep connected with Bluetooth phone integration. The TSX was ahead of its time, offering features now common but rare for the era like voice-activated navigation, rearview camera, and adaptive cruise control.

Rated as one of the most reliable used vehicles by Consumer Reports, the TSX provides many carefree miles. With proper maintenance, the TSX can easily surpass 200,000 miles. Its timeless styling also ensures it always looks contemporary and upscale.

If you desire an entertaining yet thrifty luxury sedan with a reputation for dependability, the 2004 to 2008 Acura TSX deserves your attention. This overlooked gem delivers an unparalleled blend of performance, features, quality, and value that will delight you for years to come. Why not take this forgotten Acura for a test drive today? You’ll be glad you did!

Reasons Not to Buy the 2004-2008 Acura TSX - Potential Drawbacks

The 2004-2008 Acura TSX is an enjoyable, reliable sedan, but a few potential downsides are worth considering before you buy one.

Reliability and Repair Issues

While generally dependable, the TSX does have some common problems to watch out for. The power steering pump and lines are prone to leaks and failure, which can be an expensive fix. Transmission problems and clutch issues have also been reported by some owners. At higher mileages, you may face costly repairs to the A/C system or windshield wipers.

Interior Quality

The TSX interior is nicely appointed but some owners complain of squeaks, rattles, and wind noise. Seat frames can also start squeaking over time. While the leather seats are comfortable, some say the material wears quickly. If little noises drive you bonkers or you expect showroom-new quality in a 10+ year old car, the TSX may disappoint.

Missing Features

For its time, the TSX was well-equipped but lacks some features found in newer vehicles. It has no Bluetooth, navigation, or modern infotainment tech. Safety gear like emergency braking, lane keeping assist or blind spot monitoring didn’t exist yet. If the latest and greatest tech and driver aids are must-haves for you, you’ll need to look at newer models.

Insurance and Fuel Costs

Insurance rates on the TSX aren’t terrible but not the lowest either, due to its classification as a luxury sports sedan. Fuel economy is average for the class, ranging from 21 to 28 MPG combined depending on the year and transmission. Fuel and insurance costs are worth factoring in, especially if you have a long commute.

While the Acura TSX has some downsides common to any vehicle of its age, it remains an enjoyable, reliable and affordable sedan for enthusiasts seeking an engaging driving experience. If you go in with realistic expectations, the TSX could make a wonderful used luxury sedan. The minor issues can be overlooked considering all the joy it brings as a fun yet practical daily driver.

The 2004-2008 Acura TSX: My Dream Car and Why I Love It

The 2004 to 2008 Acura TSX is truly my dream car. This sporty yet luxurious sedan has everything I could ever want in a vehicle. Here are a few of the many reasons why I’m obsessed with the first-generation TSX:

It’s thrilling to drive.

With a 205-horsepower 4-cylinder engine and a buttery smooth 6-speed manual transmission, the TSX provides an exhilarating driving experience. It handles like a race car, with responsive steering, a stiff suspension, and ventilated disk brakes on all four wheels. Zipping through twisty mountain roads in this beauty is pure bliss!

It’s exceptionally well-built.

Acuras are renowned for their impeccable reliability and build quality. The TSX is no exception. It’s not uncommon to see first-gen models with over 200,000 miles still going strong. The interior is equally impressive, with high-quality materials and rock-solid construction. Everything just feels premium.

The styling is timeless.

The TSX has a simple yet elegant design that still looks modern today. Its sharp lines, athletic stance, and jewel-eye headlights give it a sporty yet upscale appearance. The minimal use of chrome and luxurious wood or aluminum trim accentuate its sophisticated style. In my eyes, the first-gen TSX is one of the best-looking sedans Acura has ever produced.

It’s packed with amenities.

For its time, the TSX came loaded with features typically found in more expensive luxury cars. Heated leather seats, navigation, Bluetooth, a premium ELS sound system, xenon HID headlights, and a power sunroof were all available options. The TSX provides a lavish driving experience without a lavish price tag.

The 2004 to 2008 Acura TSX is a gem of a sport sedan that I hope to own someday. With its thrilling performance, outstanding quality, timeless styling, and luxury features, this vehicle checks all the boxes for me. My dream TSX would be an ‘08 model in Premium White Pearl with the 6-speed manual - perfection! If you’re in the market for an affordable luxury sedan, you really can’t go wrong with this forgotten classic.

Conclusion

So there you have it, an underappreciated gem in Acura’s line up that deserves more love. If you’re on the hunt for an affordable, reliable, and fun sedan, look no further than the 2004 to 2008 Acura TSX. You’ll be getting Honda reliability with a touch of luxury and a whole lot of driving enjoyment. The peppy 4-cylinder engine provides plenty of power while still achieving great gas mileage. The interior is full of high-quality materials and the handling will put a smile on your face. While the TSX didn’t get the attention of its larger siblings, the TL and RL, it built up a loyal following of owners who knew they had something special. Don’t miss your chance to become part of that club and find yourself a clean, low-mileage TSX - you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner! The Acura TSX is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by you.