by Paul A. Eisenstein

(2008-03-19)

Think of this as "Acura's year of the sedan," And the Japanese automaker's chief marketing executive, Dick Colliver, isn't exaggerating. The 2009 Acura TSX that is making its debut at this year's New York Auto Show is one of three sedans the marque will re-launch this year.

Of the three, none is arguably more important than the entry-luxury Acura TSX, which is designed to draw in young, first-time luxury buyers who the maker hopes will remain loyal to the brand, as they age and - hope goes - increase in affluence.

The TSX is a sporty sedan that, in its new incarnation, is likely to surprise those who think "entry-level" products mean stripped and basic. Quite the contrary. The 2009 Acura TSX is loaded with up-market features, from leather seats to Bluetooth technology for hands-free cellphoning.

The second-generation TSX should look familiar to Acura aficionados, though the new model is larger in almost every dimension, including track, width, wheelbase, and overall length. Those are more than numbers, translating into a more stable, sporty ride, as well as a larger and more comfortable interior - as TheCarConnection.com discovered during a preview drive. For those details, check back tomorrow, when the drive observations come off embargo.

The overall look, as we noted, is familiar, though the most distinctive design element is Acura's new, shield-like grille. It's a love-or-hate look that, to our eyes, is best displayed with lighter body colors. The added inches seem to provide Acura stylists an opportunity to give the '09 a more sporty, aggressive feel.

Under the hood, an updated, all-aluminum V6 that makes 201 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. Yet despite the added power, the 2009 Acura TSX delivers a measurable bump in fuel economy.

Among other standard features, the TSX boasts a USB/iPod audio interface linked to a seven-speaker premium sound system, remote keyless entry, a power moonroof, and HID headlights.

A technology package adds one of the best audio systems on the market, designed by ELS, and a voice-controlled navigation system which boasts both real-time traffic and weather.

On the safety side, the TSX features anti-lock brakes, stability control, and active headrests.

Look for the 2009 Acura TSX to begin rolling into showrooms in the coming weeks.