CHICAGO — Acura aims to fill a perceived gap between its redesigned TL sedan and the four-cylinder TSX with the new 2010 Acura TSX V6, which made its debut at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show on Wednesday. The V6-equipped TSX goes on sale this summer.
Acura says the new model is "aimed at youthful buyers who want a performance-oriented sports sedan in a more personal size." Undoubtedly, it's also for buyers put off by the four-cylinder TSX's mediocre 7.7-second 0-60-mph time.
The TSX V6 shares its 3.5-liter VTEC engine with the base Acura TL. The V6 makes 280 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque — a big upgrade over the current TSX's 201 hp and 172 lb-ft. Unlike on the four-cylinder model, though, the only available transmission will be Acura's SportShift five-speed sequential automatic, which comes with paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
The TSX V6 features revised suspension tuning and larger-diameter Michelin Pilot all-season tires mounted on 18-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels. A mildly revised front fascia and a discreet badge on the tail are the only visual clues to the V6's identity.
Inside Line says: A V6 engine should inject some life into the otherwise lukewarm Acura TSX, but expect a $30,000-plus sticker when the 2010 Acura TSX V6 hits dealers. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
Add A Comment »