2014 Acura TSX Performance

Reviewers say the 2014 Acura TSX offers a comfortable ride, dynamic handling and two powerful engine options.

• "The 2014 Acura TSX hits the sweet spot between dynamic handling that makes you want to attack a twisty road and the comfort we all crave for the commute home after a long workday." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Once the tires regain traction, the TSX is easy and pleasurable to drive in the city, on the highway or on country back roads. Steering is light, acceleration is highly responsive, the transmission shifts smoothly and the cabin is quiet." -- AutoTrader

Acceleration and Power

The base 2014 TSX has a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 201 horsepower. It comes standard with a five-speed automatic transmission, and a six-speed manual is available. The four-cylinder TSX gets up to an EPA-estimated 22/31 mpg city/highway, which is good for the class. A 3.5-liter V6 engine is optional. It makes 280 horsepower and comes with a five-speed automatic transmission.

Many test drivers think the four-cylinder engine is lively and provides decent acceleration, though a few would rather have the V6, which they say feels much more powerful and refined. Some reviewers note that the manual transmission is fun to use thanks to an easy-to-engage clutch and a slick shifter.

• "No matter which drivetrain customers choose, each is peppy and exhilarating. For customers more interested in a thrilling driving experience, the 2.4-liter with the 6-speed manual is ideal. Customers who wish to simply harness a wave of power with a flick of the accelerator will prefer the 3.5-liter V6 with the 5-speed automatic transmission." -- AutoTrader
• "The 4-cylinder sounds loud, and to some testers, unrefined, particularly as its speed rises. The V6 has a great performance sound and is nearly silent at cruise." -- Consumer Guide (2013)
• "Both transmissions work well; the manual is easy to work thanks to a short-travel clutch and linear throttle tip-in, while the automatic provides pleasantly smooth shifts." -- Edmunds (2012)
• "But more than pure numbers, what's important about the TSX V-6 is the huge amount of mid-range, tire-spinning power available, especially compared to the 4-cylinder's. The V-6 also makes more alluring sounds when driven with vigor, yet it's smoother and quieter around town." -- Road and Track (2010)

Handling and Braking

A few reviewers note that the 2014 TSX has a firm suspension, but they say that it contributes to the TSX’s athletic handling without compromising its comfortable ride. Critics say the brakes are strong and steering feel is excellent whether you’re maneuvering into a parking spot or taking a gentle curve at 70 mph. However, some write that some German rivals offer more responsive steering.

• "The TSX's suspension is balanced enough to tackle corners with glee yet still soak up road imperfections with minimal drama. Of our few gripes is Acura's electromechanical power steering that just doesn't have the feel or feedback of its German competitors." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Like most Acuras, the suspension is on the stiff side. But the firmer, sporty suspension suits the TSX well." -- AutoTrader
• "TSX handles quite well for a front-wheel-drive car. Steering feel is pleasantly light at low speeds and firms up on the highway. The brakes have fine stopping control and pedal feel." -- Consumer Guide (2013)
• "Even the suspension manages to strike a likable balance between a supple ride and solid handling." -- Edmunds (2013)