Shoppers looking at the 2009 Acura TSX will probably be considering other front-wheel drive vehicles, and possibly all-wheel drive vehicles, but more expensive rear-wheel-drive sport sedans such as the BMW 3-Series and Lexus IS are likely above their budget and wants.
The Subaru Legacy GT has performance that rivals the TL, though its handling is a little more crisp and all-wheel drive makes it more all-weather-friendly.
The Legacy’s back seat is also tight.
However the Legacy isn’t as quiet and refined as the Acura.
The Nissan Maxima is another alternative; it’s not as feature-rich as the TSX, but it has a torquey V-6 engine that gives it scorching acceleration off the line.
The base, front-wheel-drive Audi A4 2.0T is also a worthy competitor, with similarly good fuel efficiency and edgier performance without a sacrifice in ride.
Versus any of these competitors, there’s another big selling point: Acura dealerships.
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 2009 Acura TSXBrowse Used Listings |  2009 Audi A4Browse Used Listings |  2009 Subaru LegacyBrowse Used Listings |  2008 Nissan MaximaBrowse Used Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quick Specs | |||
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The new 2009 Acura TSX has a standout features list and distinctive interior, but its acceleration isn't notable. |
The 2009 Audi A4 has grown into a more useful luxury sedan, though it goes overboard with optional, programmable handling. |
The 2009 Subaru Legacy appeals to rugged, sporty, and practical types, but not those who expect top refinement. |
The 2008 Nissan Maxima is a bit more aesthetically appealing than a top-of-the-line Altima or Accord, but it doesn’t perform any better. |
| MSRP From | |||
| $29,160 | $30,700 | $20,795 | $28,630 |
| Gas Mileage | |||
| 20 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 13 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy | 19 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||
| Gas I4 | Gas I4 | Gas Flat 4-Cyl | Gas V6 |
| EPA Class | |||
| Compact | Compact | Compact | Mid-Size |
| Style Name | |||
| 4-Door Sedan Automatic | 4-Door Sedan CVT 2.0T FrontTrak Prestige *Ltd Avail* | 4-Door H4 Manual | 4-Door Sedan CVT 3.5 SE |
| Drivetrain | |||
| Front-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive | All Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||
| 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
| Transmission | |||
| Automatic w/OD | CVT | Manual | Continously Variable |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | |||
| 2009 Acura TSX vs. 2009 Audi A4 | 2009 Acura TSX vs. 2009 Subaru Legacy | 2009 Acura TSX vs. 2008 Nissan Maxima | |
