PERFORMANCE | 8 out of 10
Expert Quotes:
the addition of the 3.5-liter Acura V6 wakes the TSX right up
Edmunds
one of the best-handling front-wheel-drive cars on sale
Edmunds
Steering, as in most Acura models, is wickedly accurate
Popular Mechanics
Excellent body control and a willingness to play
Automobile
the automatic shifts smoothly, though sometimes it plays a game of hide-and-seek when pressing on with authority
Autoblog
The 2013 Acura TSX isn't quite a performance car, or a sport sedan by a broad enthusiasts' definition (it has front-wheel drive), but it does offer a sportier driving personality than most other compact to mid-size luxury sedans.
While a 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine is a tempting option in the TSX,, the 201-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder has enough pep to satisfy most drivers, whether they go with the six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The Sport Wagon comes only with the four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission.
Between the two transmissions in the four-cylinder model, we tend to prefer the manual, as it showcases the best of parent company Honda, with a precise shift linkage, light clutch takeup, and rev-happy engine--plus smart, closely-spaced gear ratios that really help you get the most enjoyment without losing fuel economy.
Even though the V-6 makes the most of the TSX's well-tuned chassis, we've found that because of the added weight in front, this model doesn't handle quite as crisply.Across the lineup, steering and ride are very European in feel--taut but really never punishing. Over many drives, we've been pleased with the way the electric power steering is calibrated, with nice weighting.
Conclusion
For a front-wheel-drive sedan, the 2013 Acura TSX handles well; and while the V-6 adds extra punch, the four is fine.
