First-Generation Acura TSX: Still Relevantly Good

The 1st Generation Acura TSX gets praised for being still relevantly good.

Acura’s TSX is also known as the Honda Accord in other parts of the world. It is placed in a challenging category because the Accord has not been openly accepted into the tuner community like the TSX has.

It’s technically an Accord–but isn’t. This YouTuber quickly discovers that in their review.

What makes it different from the Accord is it’s balance of performance, quality, and timeless exterior aesthetics. Performance-wise, the TSX had a K24A2 engine from the factory with an optional 6-speed manual transmission. This engine has been celebrated amongst the automotive community as one of the best things to ever grace the planet. Options are limitless and creating power is easy.

The interior boasts an aged but timeless flow. The semi-digital cluster and radio with lots of buttons may give hints on the cars age, but they still look and usually function well. The CD changer/navigation unit is a common failure point. But is easily replaced with a double-din unit if need be.

The suspension is a double-wish bone design that is far preferred over similar cars of it’s timeframe. The RSX Type S (DC5) and Civic Si (EP3) were actually considered challenging cars to modify and tune due to their McPherson front struts and limited rear-end design. Japanese tuners such as Spoon Sports opted for the “Accord” chassis for tuning and found success in their race programs.

Photo Credits: DrivingLine.com

With timeless aesthetics, a potent power plant, and large aftermarket support, the 1st generation TSX continues to be a relevant platform with plenty of room to grow.

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