New 2009 Acura TSX

 Sometimes less is more—a philosophy adopted by the people at Acura in regards to the 2009 Acura TSX. Absent are radical changes to the exterior, interior and engine. Present are the acute modifications in all three.

The entry-level model in the Acura lineup maintains its strong performance with a 201-horsepower, 2.4-liter DOHC 4-cylnder i-VTEC® engine. Consumers get to choose between a 6-speed manual transmission, and a 5-speed Sequential automatic transmission that allows the gears to be shifted manually. The 2009 TSX also has an improved stiffness for handling and increased engine quietness.

The exterior has a bold, new-look grille, while the interior has a sleek dashboard with a user-friendly interface and more room for your passengers. The slightly bigger frame accounts for a smoother, more comfortable ride.

There are two tiers of pricing for both manual and automatic trims—the standard and the Technology Package. The standard package starts at $28,960 and has many features including a USB port, auxiliary audio input and 12-volt power source. Dual-Zone Control Automatic Climate Control allows both the driver and passenger to set different microclimates.

For $32,060 you can upgrade to the Technology Package which has many luxuries such as the ELS 5.1 Surround Sound System with 10 speakers and MP3 and WMA compatible 6-disc CD player. Additional premium features include the Note Function for XM radio, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic, which helps the driver avoid traffic jams and Traffic Rerouting that suggests alternate routes based on real-time traffic conditions.

Not only does the TSX have great fuel economy, but it qualifies as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEA). The automatic TSX gets 21 MPG city and 30 MPG highway and the manual gets 20/28.

In terms of safety, the TSX kept its Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) system which detects and corrects oversteering and understeering. VSA integrates traction control and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, which alerts the driver when tire pressure is 25% off the recommended level. Standard safety equipment includes anti-locking brakes (ABS) and six airbags.

The 2009 TSX offers affordability, crisp handling, sleek exterior/interior styling, fuel efficiency and fun audio/GPS features, which are sure to be popular with drivers everywhere.