Best Car Reviews - 2012 Acura TSX

Introduction

The 2012 Acura TSX stands as a compelling option in the compact luxury segment. Released as part of Acura's lineup aimed at those seeking a blend of sporty performance and refinement without breaking the bank, the TSX appeals primarily to young professionals and small families looking for a reliable yet upscale daily driver. What sets this model apart is its balanced package of performance, comfort, and technology wrapped in a stylish design.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2012 Acura TSX showcases a clean and modern aesthetic, characterized by its sleek sedan body style, making it look both elegant and sporty. With a length of approximately 186 inches and a width of 72 inches, the TSX offers a commanding road presence without being cumbersome.

Key design elements include:

Prominent Jewel Eye headlights that enhance visibility and style.
A bold front grille design characteristic of Acura's identity.
Streamlined curves and aerodynamic lines that aid in fuel efficiency and aesthetics.
Aluminum alloy wheels that add a touch of sportiness.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the 2012 Acura TSX, occupants are greeted with a well-thought-out cabin layout that exudes a sense of luxury and attention to detail. The use of high-quality materials, including soft-touch plastics and leather upholstery, creates an inviting and upscale environment.

Comfort features include:

Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort.
Heated front seats for added warmth during cold months.
A spacious trunk with ample room for luggage.
Power-adjustable driver's seat for optimized driving position.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Acura TSX sports a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine that runs on premium gasoline. It produces a respectable amount of power suitable for both city commuting and highway cruising, also facilitated by its 5-speed automatic transmission (S5).

Performance highlights:

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in about 8.1 seconds — brisk for its class.
Front-wheel drive for smooth handling and efficiency.
Excellent agility in city traffic, offering easy maneuverability.
A stable ride on highways, ensuring comfort over long distances.
Fuel consumption of 11.9 L/100 km, which, while not the best in class, is reasonable for its power.

Technology and Connectivity

Acura has equipped the TSX with an impressive array of tech features designed to keep drivers connected and entertained. The infotainment system is intuitive, though not as modern as more recent models.

Notable tech features:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
A premium audio system with crisp sound quality.
optional navigation system with voice recognition.
7.5-inch color display for controlling entertainment options.
Available USB and auxiliary port for additional connectivity.

Safety Features

Ensuring the safety of its passengers, the 2012 Acura TSX comes with a robust suite of safety features, reflecting Acura’s commitment to occupant security.

Standard and advanced features include:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for better control during emergencies.
Multiple airbags including front, side, and curtain airbags.
Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control.
High crash test ratings ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
Rearview camera for improved visibility while reversing.

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2012 Acura TSX starts at around $30,000 USD, offering commendable value within the compact luxury segment.

Pricing comparison:

Not typically the cheapest in its class, but offers a desirable mix of features and performance, making it competitive against rivals like the Lexus IS and BMW 3 Series.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Sleek and modern design
High-quality interior materials
Reliable performance
Advanced safety features
Competitive pricing within its segment

Cons

Higher fuel consumption compared to competitors
Limited rear seat space
Older generation infotainment system
Premium gasoline requirement
Lacks some advanced driver assistance features found in newer models

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs for the Acura TSX tend to be moderate, reflecting its reputation for reliability. Common issues include:

Brake rotor wear requiring more frequent replacements.
Transmission issues, though not widespread.
Electrical system glitches affecting infotainment and lighting.
Suspension component wear in older models.
Engine oil leaks developing over higher mileage.

Rating

Overall, the 2012 Acura TSX scores a solid 8.2 out of 10.

Breakdown:

Design: 8.5/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 8.5/10
Technology: 7.5/10
Safety: 8.5/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The TSX has been a pleasure to drive with its smooth ride and premium feel."
"A bit thirsty on fuel, but worth it for the performance."
"The interior quality is top-notch for this segment."
"A reliable vehicle, though I've had minor electrical issues."
"Love the design, but wish the rear seats were roomier."

Best cars in this category

2012 BMW 3 Series
2012 Lexus IS
2012 Audi A4
2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
2012 Volvo S60

Summary

The 2012 Acura TSX is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance of luxury and performance in a compact package. It suits young professionals and small families who value quality, safety, and a beautiful blend of sporty and comfortable driving experiences. While it has a few shortcomings, particularly in terms of fuel efficiency and rear seat space, it remains a compelling option, particularly for those prioritizing a premium feel and reliability.

With its blend of style, comfort, and performance, the 2012 Acura TSX offers substantial value, making it a worthy contender in the compact luxury segment.