2004 Acura TSX

Graceful lines and a sculpted interior give the new 2004 Acura TSX a fresh and inviting feel. On the road, its 200-hp i-VTEC™ engine gives it a firm authority through either a short-throw 6-speed manual or a 5-speed Sequential SportShift™ automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) Handling is surgically precise, with 4-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension and variable-assist rack-and-pinion steering. As always, safety is a top priority, and the TSX is the first Acura to come with standard side-curtain air bags. With its generously appointed interior, the 2004 Acura TSX offers a new standard of luxury that's sensible yet refined. But at heart, the TSX is a true sports sedan. (concept carz)

From its athletic poise, its 17-inch alloy wheels and its dual exhaust, you know right away that the 2004 Acura TSX is not just a sedan. (concept carz) It's a performance sedan. (concept carz) The powerful 200-hp, 2.4-liter, DOHC i-VTEC engine teams up with your choice of a short-throw 6-speed manual transmission or a quick-thinking 5-speed Sequential SportShift™ automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) Precise handling, class-leading aerodynamics and state-of-the-art safety and control systems each work their magic, helping the TSX induce exhilaration with its clockwork performance.

The TSX sports sedan gets its thrust from a 16-valve, 2.4-liter, DOHC LEV-II engine with a lightweight aluminum block and head. The 4-cylinder engine employs i-VTEC,™ a more sophisticated version of the legendary Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system that extracts ample low-rpm torque and high-rpm power from the same engine. By precisely managing valve behavior, i-VTEC helps the engine put out 200 horsepower and reach its peak torque of 166 lb.-ft. at just 4500 rpm. Acceleration is hearty across a wide rpm band. At the same time, i-VTEC helps improve fuel efficiency and reduce exhaust emissions. A balance shaft system helps to cancel engine vibration, and precise drive-by-wire throttle control results in a more direct pedal feel. Electronic direct ignition helps extend the scheduled tune-up interval to 110,000 miles.

The 4-wheel independent suspension's controlled ride will please both the driving enthusiast and the finicky passenger. The rigid unit body is designed for torsional and bending rigidity. It provides the backbone for the Formula One-inspired, double-wishbone front and rear suspension with rear multi-links. The combination results in a smooth ride and precise handling, helping to keep the wide tires of the 17-inch wheels in maximum contact. The suspension is optimized with firm springs and gas-filled dampers front and rear, for pleasant responsiveness and road feel. Front and rear stabilizer bars help maintain a flat cornering stance and a stable ride.

The TSX is available with either a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission or a sophisticated 5-speed Sequential SportShift™ automatic transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com) Both transmissions are designed to get the most out of the broad torque band of the 200-hp engine. The light, compact 6-speed manual offers short and precise throws that mimic the lightning-quick shift action of a racecar, and its short clutch-pedal stroke makes gear changes seem effortless. The smooth-shifting, 5-speed automatic lets you control shifting when you feel like it, or does it for you, if you prefer.

Advanced technology gives the TSX its precise handling control. A steering-torque sensitive, variable-assist rack-and-pinion steering system provides sharp response in vigorous driving. Stopping is steady and firm with 4-wheel disc brakes, and the standard 4-wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) helps the driver retain steering control during hard braking. Únder adverse dynamic conditions, standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) helps the driver retain steering control by correcting for both oversteer and understeer. Its Traction Control System (TCS) helps the front wheels maintain sure-footed acceleration. At higher speeds, the aerodynamics of the TSX contribute to its stability. Standard 215/50 R17 Michelin all-season high-performance tires on 17-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels give the TSX an aggressive stance and a firm footing.

The first time you sit in the TSX, it's easy to revel in the luxury of the supportive, leather-trimmed seats, surrounded by the impeccably finished dash and decorative trim and abundant standard features. You'll find eight speakers, a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, dual-zone Automatic Climate Control, a tilting power moonroof, and storage spaces in every direction. But there's another side of the TSX equally well served by the interior: In the deeply bolstered, 8-way power driver's seat, gripping the leather-wrapped, tilt & telescoping steering wheel, you're ideally poised for hours of performance-car driving excitement.

The TSX interior seats five. The seating surfaces of the firm sport seats are upholstered in soft yet durable leather that's perforated for ventilation. The 8-way power driver's seat offers adjustable lumbar support and firm side support, for long bouts of vigorous driving. In both front seats, the springs draw the pelvis back for a firm, bracing hold, and integrated headrests provide comfort and protection. The steering column tilts and telescopes to suit a wide range of drivers. There is ample head- and legroom in the TSX for both the front and the rear passengers. In fact, it has the roomiest rear seats in its class. They fit three adults - or two adults with plenty of elbow room. A center armrest with dual beverage holders folds down for support. The rear seatback splits 60/40, offering a full or partial opening to the trunk space.

The standard Acura Premium Sound System includes an AM/FM Stereo receiver and an integrated 6-disc in-dash CD changer. It draws on 360 watts of power from a separate amplifier unit to deliver high-fidelity full-range sound to each occupant through its eight speakers. An external antenna has been etched into the rear window on both models for better reception. Three switches on the left of the steering wheel allow the driver to change audio system mode, volume, and radio station or disc track, without taking either hand from the wheel. EIGHT SPEAKERS The eight individually powered speakers of the Acura Premium Sound System have been carefully selected, placed and electronically tuned to suit the interior's acoustics. There are two soft-dome tweeters mounted in the dash, a low-distortion Neodymium boron full-range driver in each of the four doors, and two 6" x 9" ferrite subwoofers built into the rear parcel shelf. Together they offer all occupants a full range of clear, high-fidelity sound and vivid stereo separation.

A dual-zone Automatic Climate Control System allows the driver and front passenger to create individual settings for their sides of the cabin. The powerful system heats or cools the cabin in a hurry. Atmospheric sensors keep the automatic function highly accurate, and heat-rejecting tinted window glass contributes to its efficiency. The automatic function can be overridden manually. An air filtration system in the air conditioning flow removes pollen and other contaminants, and is easy to maintain. In TSX models with the available Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition,™ the driver can adjust the climate control using standardized verbal commands.

The only factory option offered* on TSX is the factory-installed Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition.™ The system receives Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) data from satellites to figure out where you are. Onboard inertial sensors keep track of turns and speed. To pinpoint your location, the system draws on a 48-state database stored on DVD, loaded with maps and 7 million points of interest. A built-in microphone links you to new voice-recognition software that can recognize more than 130 commands. The processing speed is fast; routes within 100 miles take about three seconds to prepare. The three-dimensional animations appear on a flat 8" color touch-control screen. As you travel, you can get continuous coverage of the route with both audio and visual cues. And voice recognition lets you give commands and get clear directions to where you're going, without taking your hands from the wheel. * The Acura Navigation System is available only in the 48 contiguous Únited States. 48-STATE DATABASE The database includes maps and destination information for most major metropolitan and outlying areas and all highways in the contiguous 48 states of the Ú.S. (Mapping databases do not include information on routes within Alaska and Hawaii.) Roads and cities change, so at some point you may wish to update the system by purchasing a new DVD from your Acura Dealer. New DVDs are produced on a yearly basis. 7 MILLION POINTS OF INTEREST Some of the 7 million locations stored in memory on the 8.0-gigabyte DVD include banks, ATMs, airports, hotels, restaurants, shopping centers and auto service facilities. MICROPHONE For vehicles so equipped, the microphone for the voice recognition feature of the navigation system is activated by pressing the Voice Control (upper) button below the left spoke of the steering wheel. The adjacent Cancel (lower) button will cancel the request. The system recognizes up to 60 commands for the navigation system, as well as climate control, audio and trip meter functions that can be controlled through the navigation system screen. 8" COLOR TOÚCH-CONTROL SCREEN The vivid 8" color touch-control screen can display a moving map that appears three-dimensional, as if seen at an angle from the air. You can zoom in and out, and view two fields in split-screen. The system will display direction arrows, detailed street names, turning instructions and driving distances.

There is plenty of discreet storage space in the TSX. The front-seat center console compartment has a sliding armrest lid; open it to find a shelf for a mobile phone, which can be charged through the 12-volt power outlet in the large space below. There are four beverage holders, two in front of the center console and two in the rear fold-down armrest. Items like CD cases fit in the front door pockets, in the glove box, under the front armrest, and below the audio controls. The lockable 60/40 split fold-down rear seat back extends the cargo area from the roomy trunk into the rear seats to fit larger items like skis. The trunk opening is wide and low-cut, for easy loading. And the lock opens electronically, so there's no need to fumble with keys while carrying groceries.

Distractions are diminished in the TSX with strategic lighting and placement of controls, and with a long list of power features. Ambient blue lighting helps keep the controls in view. The power windows include a driver's window with quick "auto up" and "auto down" features, and the power moonroof opens with the press of a button. As the TSX speeds up, the intermittent wipers automatically speed up as well. There are steering-wheel mounted audio and cruise control switches, so your hands needn't leave the wheel. The standard HomeLink® system can control up to three remote devices, such as a garage-door or gate opener, from its eye-level buttons. Two power outlets keep phones and other devices charging and close at hand. The keyless remote entry system activates the security system and can even open all the windows through its key fob transmitter. Auto-off headlights stay on for 15 seconds as a courtesy when you leave the TSX.

Acura ownership means more than simply driving a great vehicle - you can also count on support when you need it. That's because we provide Acura Total Luxury Care™ (TLC) for every new and Certified Pre-Owned Acura owner. In addition to the Acura 4-year, 50,000-mile warranty, TLC includes 24-hour nationwide emergency and travel services, roadside assistance, Acura Concierge Service, and more. This collection of special services and privileges is available exclusively for Acura owners, to help ensure your long term driving and ownership satisfaction.

The TSX is not only designed to appeal to the eye and stoke primal feelings of wanderlust. Thanks to a culture of dedicated engineers who give safety special priority, the TSX is also designed to help you steer clear of trouble, to help protect you and other occupants in the unthinkable event of a collision, and to help protect your well-being and your property when you leave it parked.

To help prevent accidents before they happen, the TSX offers excellent outward visibility, aided by powerful HID headlights, as well as quick acceleration, superb handling, responsive steering and a standard Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) that helps you retain steering control during hard braking. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®) helps reduce the effects of understeer and oversteer in turns, and includes a Traction Control System (TCS) to help give you footing when one or both of the front wheels is at risk of spinning. All these features can help you dodge trouble and perform another day. There are also ways to keep trouble from coming to you in the first place. To help other drivers see you sooner and know your intentions while there's still time to react, turn signals are integrated into the outside door mirrors of the TSX, and side marker and brake lights are prominently visible.

In the event that a collision cannot be avoided, the TSX sedan offers substantial occupant protection from all directions, thanks to a rigid body with front and rear crumple zones and a highly rigid passenger compartment. The standard Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) features dual-stage front air bags, seatback mounted side air bags, and a first for an Acura vehicle: standard headliner-mounted side curtain air bags for the driver, front passenger and outboard rear-seat passengers. For the front-passenger's side air bag, sensors can detect an occupant of small stature leaning into the deployment path and prevent the side air bag from deploying. Dual seatbelt pretensioners are standard on both front belts. There are 3-point shoulder/lap belts at every seat, and both outboard rear seats are LATCH-compatible.

For added security, the TSX has a standard keyless-remote entry system that locks and unlocks both doors and the trunk from up to 30 feet away, at the push of a key-fob button. The same key fob used to lock the doors also activates the security system. When you lock the TSX, the interior illumination goes out immediately, for security and privacy. The rear split fold-down seatback can be locked in place to keep the trunk secure. A standard electronic engine-immobilizer system prevents the car from being started without the proper key. Door locks are recessed to help prevent unlocking with a prying tool. And like every Acura, the TSX covers you with Acura Roadside Assistance for 4 years or 50,000 miles. (See dealer for details.)

For added security, the TSX has a standard keyless-remote entry system that locks and unlocks both doors and the trunk from up to 30 feet away, at the push of a key-fob button. The same key fob used to lock the doors also activates the security system. When you lock the TSX, the interior illumination goes out immediately, for security and privacy. The rear split fold-down seatback can be locked in place to keep the trunk secure. A standard electronic engine-immobilizer system prevents the car from being started without the proper key. Door locks are recessed to help prevent unlocking with a prying tool. And like every Acura, the TSX covers you with Acura Roadside Assistance for 4 years or 50,000 miles. (See dealer for details.)

You can see and feel the high standard of quality in the TSX interior. The trim is firm and close-fitting, with no gap between the power moonroof and the headliner, and no visible seam for the front passenger's front air bag. The perforated leather of the seating surfaces is as sturdy as it is supple. Even the speaker grilles are integrated with the contours of the panels they occupy. The ride in the TSX interior is quiet, because engineers worked hard to reduce the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) reaching the cabin from the engine, the road and the air outside. The sounds you do hear in the TSX are the good kind. A quiet door lock structure and a rigid door sash help to produce a heavy, solid thud when each door is closed. The doors and their hinges are angled slightly to make shutting the doors smooth and effortless. To muffle sound, the coin pocket is flocked, and the center pocket and console tray and box are fitted with rubber mats. The engine is designed to be just loud enough to tell the driver what it's up to.

To assess the quality of the TSX exterior, you can look at it up close. Or you can just drive it. Observe the consistency of the body-panel gaps, which don't exceed 4mm; the gap along the door handles and trunk lid are much closer still. On the freeway, you feel the results of these phenomena just as quickly, in the quiet stability of the ride. The 3-D curved door glass helps the TSX achieve class-leading aerodynamic performance. Sleek side mirrors are shaped to cut wind noise. Nearly every body panel is made of double-sided galvanized steel for enhanced corrosion protection. And then there's the obvious: the lustrous paint finish, which offers enduring protection and mesmerizing consistency.

The sheer virtuosity of the TSX starts in the very things it's made of. The aluminum-alloy engine and suspension components are light in weight yet rigid enough to offer strength without excessive vibration. The magnesium in the manual transmission case is as rigid as aluminum, but lighter still. Special high-tensile steel in the frame helps resist deformation in a collision. Most TSX body panels are made of double-sided galvanized steel to resist corrosion. Únder the carpet, insulating melt sheets help keep the ride quiet while adding little weight. And the slim, lightweight speakers in each of the four doors use a rare-earth neodymium boron magnet to produce deep, booming bass. In fact, it's hard to find a part in the TSX that doesn't have a story to tell.

Source - Acura

All-New Acura TSX Sports Sedan Makes World Debut at North American International Auto Show

Detroit, January 6, 2003 -- The all-new Acura TSX sports sedan made its world debut at the North American International Auto Show today, giving Acura's lineup an entry luxury performance vehicle positioned between the hot-selling RSX sports coupe and Acura's top-selling 3.2 TL luxury performance sedan. (concept carz)

'The TSX is designed to compete head on with other premium sport sedans from Europe and Japan,' said Dick Colliver, Acura executive vice president, sales. 'With 200 horsepower, a 6-speed manual transmission, race-bred suspension and an abundance of features, the TSX has what it takes to be a success in this hotly contested segment.'

The TSX features a 2.4-liter DOHC, i-VTEC engine that generates 200 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 166 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. The i-VTEC 'intelligent' valve-control system adjusts valve timing and lift for enhanced performance across a broad power band in addition to improved fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions.

The TSX is equipped with a drive-by-wire throttle control system for smooth acceleration. It comes with either a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission or a performance-oriented 5-speed Sequential SportShift' automatic transmission for precise control of the powerful engine.

To deliver precise, responsive handling, the TSX utilizes an extremely rigid unit body structure, a race-bred, 4-wheel-independent double-wishbone suspension, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), 17-inch alloy wheels and P215/50R17 all-season performance tires.

The TSX features an aggressive wedge design with strong character lines and a highly aerodynamic body. In front, styling cues include Acura's signature 5-sided grille, stylish High Intensity Discharge (HID) head lights and lower air intakes that evoke the image of racing brake ducts. In the rear, the backlight slopes to meet a short trunk lid, which terminates sharply to help air separate cleanly off the back of the car at speed.

The cockpit of the TSX is sporty yet refined. It is comprehensively equipped with deeply-bolstered perforated leather seating, a power moonroof, a leather-wrapped three-spoke sport steering wheel with integrated audio and cruise controls, dual-zone automatic climate control, an Acura premium audio system, power windows and door locks and keyless entry. The Acura TSX sport sedan will go on sale at Acura dealerships nationwide in April 2003.

Source - Honda Media