Best Car Reviews - 2014 Acura TSX

Introduction

The 2014 Acura TSX is a standout in the world of compact luxury cars. Released in its final production year, this vehicle targets drivers who value a blend of performance, style, and luxury without breaking the bank. The 2014 TSX distinguishes itself with its sporty manual transmission, sleek design, and a reputation for reliability that appeals to professionals and small families alike.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2014 Acura TSX showcases a blend of elegant curves and sharp lines that give it a distinctive and stylish appearance. This compact sedan offers a delightful balance between aerodynamic efficiency and aesthetic appeal. A closer look reveals:

  • Sleek, aerodynamic body lines
  • Bold front grille with the iconic Acura emblem
  • Stylish 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Xenon HID headlights for enhanced visibility
  • Sporty dual-exhaust outlets

These elements collectively give the TSX an understated yet assertive look, ensuring it stands out in a crowded parking lot.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the TSX, and you're greeted by a well-laid-out cabin that exudes luxury and comfort. Acura has paid attention to details, offering high-quality materials and a driver-focused environment.

  • Leather-trimmed seats offering excellent support
  • Dual-zone climate control for customized comfort
  • Eight-way power driver’s seat with memory settings
  • Heated front seats for added convenience
  • Spacious seating for five adults with ample legroom

The overall layout prioritizes driver comfort and accessibility to controls, ensuring a pleasant journey every time.

Performance and Handling

Beneath the hood, the 2014 Acura TSX is equipped with a robust four-cylinder engine designed to run on premium gasoline. This powertrain is paired with a manual 6-speed transmission delivering a spirited driving experience.

Expect a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of approximately 8.5 seconds, offering enough power for enjoyable city driving and confident highway merging. The front-wheel-drive system provides a balanced feel, while the vehicle handles curves and corners with poise.

  • Fuel Consumption: Approximately 12.4 l/100 km in mixed driving conditions
  • Agile handling enhances fun in city traffic
  • Stable and smooth ride on highways
  • Firm braking system ensures safety in varying conditions

The TSX combines performance with practicality, making it an appealing choice for everyday driving.

Technology and Connectivity

The Acura TSX is well-equipped with modern technology and connectivity options to keep drivers and passengers entertained and informed.

  • Premium 7-speaker sound system
  • Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls
  • USB and auxiliary inputs for diverse media options
  • Navigation system with a user-friendly interface (available on higher trims)
  • Steering wheel-mounted controls for ease of use

Overall, the technology suite enhances both the driving experience and passenger enjoyment.

Safety Features

Acura prioritizes safety, integrating a variety of standard and advanced features to keep occupants protected.

  • Front, side, and curtain airbags for comprehensive coverage
  • Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control
  • Advanced braking systems (e.g., ABS and EBD)
  • Rearview camera (available on certain trims)
  • Achieved high marks in crash test ratings

Such safety measures provide peace of mind for those inside the TSX.

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2014 Acura TSX starts around $31,000 USD. While this may place it at the higher end of the compact car segment, the blend of luxury and performance justifies the cost. Key competitors in this category might include:

  • BMW 3 Series
  • Audi A4
  • Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Acura offers the TSX in several trims, providing options for additional features like navigation and sportier aesthetics.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Dynamic driving experience with manual transmission
  • High-quality interior materials
  • Reliable performance with low maintenance costs
  • Advanced safety features included as standard
  • Competitive fuel efficiency for its class

Cons

  • Higher base price compared to some rivals
  • Limited rear visibility due to design
  • Premium gasoline requirement may add cost
  • Infotainment system could feel outdated
  • Limited cargo space relative to competitors

Maintenance and Common Issues

Expect annual maintenance costs to be reasonable compared to more high-end luxury brands. However, some common issues reported by owners include:

  • Premature brake wear
  • Suspension component durability
  • Minor electrical issues with infotainment
  • Transmission noise on occasion
  • Paint durability in harsh weather conditions

Rating

Overall Rating: 8/10

  • Design: 8/10
  • Comfort: 9/10
  • Performance: 8/10
  • Technology: 7/10
  • Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

  • "The driving experience is unparalleled for this price point!"
  • "Comfortable and luxurious interior that makes every drive enjoyable."
  • "I wish the technology was more updated considering newer options."
  • "Maintenance has been mostly hassle-free, but I experienced some brake issues early on."
  • "The TSX is a great blend of style and reliability."

Best cars in this category

  • 2014 BMW 3 Series
  • 2014 Audi A4
  • 2014 Lexus IS
  • 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  • 2014 Infiniti Q50

Summary

The 2014 Acura TSX is well-suited for those who appreciate a balance of luxury, performance, and reliability in a compact package. While it faces stiff competition, its sturdy construction, manual transmission option, and superior comfort make it a worthy contender. If you prioritize quality materials and a sporty drive, the TSX should be at the top of your consideration list.