Best Car Reviews - 2005 Acura TSX

Introduction

The 2005 Acura TSX made its debut as a part of Acura's impressive lineup, targeting the segment of compact luxury sports sedans. Released with the aim of appealing to drivers looking for a blend of performance, luxury, and reliability, the TSX presents itself as a strong competitor in its class. What makes the 2005 model stand out is its elegant design, robust engine, and well-appointed interior, making it a sought-after choice for enthusiasts and daily commuters alike.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2005 Acura TSX boasts a sleek and sophisticated design characterized by clean lines and a sporty stance. This compact luxury car measures in a way that strikes a balance between nimbleness for urban driving and stability for highway cruising. Key design elements include:

Aerodynamic silhouette that enhances its sporty appeal.
Xenon HID headlights for improved visibility and modern aesthetics.
17-inch alloy wheels offering a stylish and composed look.
Chrome-accented grille that gives the TSX a distinctive face.
Sunroof providing an extra touch of luxury and openness.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the 2005 Acura TSX offers a refined and comfortable cabin that is meant to enhance the driving experience. The use of high-quality materials and thoughtful design make the interior inviting and user-friendly. Notable interior features include:

Leather-trimmed seats and steering wheel delivering a premium feel.
Heated front seats for added comfort in colder climates.
Dual-zone automatic climate control ensuring customized comfort.
Spacious legroom in both front and rear seats, accommodating taller passengers comfortably.
10-way power driver's seat with lumbar support for optimal driving position.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2005 Acura TSX is powered by a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine. This spirited engine generates 200 horsepower, providing robust performance for a car in the compact class. With its manual 6-speed transmission, the driving experience is both engaging and spirited. Performance highlights include:

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 7.8 seconds.
Crisp handling on winding roads thanks to its precise steering and balanced chassis.
Smooth ride and stable handling on highways and city roads alike.
Fuel efficiency of around 9.5l/100 km, balancing performance with economy.

Technology and Connectivity

Technologically, the 2005 Acura TSX comes equipped with a range of features that enhance both convenience and entertainment. While not the most advanced by today's standards, at the time, it offered:

Premium audio system with an in-dash, 6-CD changer.
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling.
Navigational system with a sizeable LCD display for easy-to-follow directions.
Steering wheel-mounted audio controls for convenience and safety.
Voice command functionality for intuitive control of features.

Safety Features

The safety features in the 2005 TSX don't skimp on innovation for the time, offering peace of mind to its occupants. Highlights include:

Front and side airbags protecting in case of collision.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS) for improved control during abrupt stops.
Traction control system (TCS) enhancing stability in various driving conditions.
Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) helping optimize braking power.
Five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA reflect its robust safety measures.

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2005 Acura TSX started at approximately $27,000 USD, which was competitively placed among its peers like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. While it did not have numerous trim levels, the features offered were already rich and attractive for the segment.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Strong performance and handling thanks to its manual transmission.
High-quality interior materials and excellent comfort.
Reliable and durable manufacturing synonymous with Honda's engineering.
Superior safety features and solid crash test ratings.
Timeless design that still feels modern and appealing.

Cons

Limited rear visibility due to sleek design.
Higher maintenance costs compared to some competitors.
Fuel efficiency could be improved by more modern standards.
Limited infotainment options compared to newer models.
Lacks advanced driver-assistance systems now common in newer vehicles.

Maintenance and Common Issues

On average, the maintenance cost for a 2005 Acura TSX is moderately priced. However, like any vehicle, it has its common issues:

Premature brake wear requiring frequent replacement.
Suspension noise over bumps, especially as mileage progresses.
Power steering system leaks which might necessitate periodic repairs.
Minor electrical gremlins affecting lights or window functionality.
Clutch issues due to the manual transmission, particularly if driven hard.

Rating

Overall, the 2005 Acura TSX scores an impressive 8.5 out of 10, with specific ratings breaking down as follows:

Design: 9/10 for its timeless elegance.
Comfort: 8/10 due to its high-quality interiors.
Performance: 8/10 owing to spirited driving dynamics.
Technology: 7/10 for the period-appropriate tech features.
Safety: 9/10 for its robust safety systems and ratings.

User Reviews and Feedback

"I've owned my TSX for 15 years, and it's been incredibly reliable, offering a comfortable ride and strong performance."
"The clutch is a bit heavy, but the manual transmission makes for a fun and engaging drive."
"I feel safe knowing it has a five-star crash rating and bunch of airbags."
"Maintenance can add up, but it's worth it for a car that still turns heads."
"The interior is a little dated now, but the durability of the materials is impressive."

Best Cars in this Category

2005 BMW 3 Series
2005 Audi A4
2005 Lexus IS 250
2005 Infiniti G35
2005 Volvo S40

Summary

The 2005 Acura TSX is an exceptional choice for those seeking a balance of luxury and sportiness in a compact sedan form. It's a car that appeals to enthusiastic drivers who appreciate a manual transmission, yet need a vehicle suitable for daily transportation. With its high-quality build, robust safety features, and reliable performance, the 2005 TSX continues to represent good value in today's used-car market, offering luxury features without the exorbitant price tag.