New 2013 Acura TSX

Ably combining sport and luxury, the 2013 Acura TSX is a compact luxury car offered as both a sedan and a sport wagon.

Formerly the entry-level car in Acura’s lineup before the introduction of the ILX this year, the TSX competes in a crowded space that includes cars like the Audi A4, Buick Regal, and Lexus IS250. From the outside, the TSX is easy to pick out as an Acura with the signature shield grille dominating the front of the car. Xenon headlights and foglights come standard, while 17-inch alloy wheels accompany four-cylinder models (18-inch alloys with the V-6 equipped).

There are two available engine options, led by a 201-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder that serves as the base engine. It is mated to a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. For those who want more performance out of their TSX, there is also a 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 that only comes with the automatic. The TSX Sport Wagon is only offered with the four-cylinder engine and the automatic transmission.

Fuel economy numbers vary slightly depending on drivetrain and transmission choices. The sedan ranges from 21-22 mpg in the city and 29-31 mpg on the highway with the base engine (higher figures with the automatic), while the V-6 returns 19/28 mpg city/highway. The Sport Wagon checks in at 22/30 mpg city/highway.

The 2013 TSX offers a luxurious interior experience as well with excellent fit and finish to go along with premium materials and the great attention to detail. It also offers a longer list of standard features than many of its competitors, with Bluetooth connectivity, USB/iPod port, powered/heated front seats, leather upholstery, moonroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control coming on all models. An optional navigation system with traffic and weather updates also comes with a hard drive that can store up to 15GB of music.

Standard safety features include an electronic stability system, side-impact and side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, and active front head restraints.