Acura's TSX was first redesigned for 2009 and beyond -- and received minor tweaks for 2010 and beyond shortly after. The TL is priced against BMW's 3-Series, and is Acura's most comparable model in terms of size and features, despite being slightly larger than both the BMW and the Mercedes C-Class.

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The TSX's nearest rival might actually be the Volvo S40, with the size advantage going to the Acura and the price advantage belonging to the Volvo.

Engines and Transmissions

The second-generation TSX was first offered with only a single motor choice. The entry-level powerplant was an all-aluminum DOHC i-VTEC inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 201 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque from 2.4 liters.

The I4 is capable of producing more power across a wider powerband, plus it offers more torque in the critical middle range than the previous I4. Along with improved performance, it is also cleaner as it now meeting the EPA's aggressive Tier 2-Bin 5 and CARB LEV II Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) standards for the first time in TSX history.

Two transmissions are available, neither at an increased cost over the other. Customers can chose between a six-speed close-ratio manual or a five-speed automatic with a SportShift manual mode via optional paddle shifters.

Estimated fuel mileage is 21/30/24 mpg (city/highway/combined) for the automatic and 20/28/23 mpg (city/highway/combined) for the manual.

Beginning in 2010, Acura expanded the engine list to include a 3.5-liter V6. The new V6 pumps out 280 hp and 254 lb-ft. of torque. Despite sizable power gains over the I4, the V6 reports only a modest fuel economy hit - 18 city, and 27 highway.

Body and Chassis

The TSX grew in overall dimensions for the latest model -- gaining 3.0 inches in total width, 2.6 inches in track, 1.3 inches in wheelbase and 2.4 inches in overall length. Acura says these changes result in more interior room and improved ride quality.

The automaker also made several improvements to the construction of the body, resulting in improved stiffness and increased quietness. A closed-channel cross-braced roof structure and stronger rear bulkhead reduce vibration. New A-, B- and C-pillar separators also improve quietness over rough roads and at high speed. Outward visibility is also improved by the slimmer A-pillar design.

Overall aerodynamics have been enhanced, thanks to a new shape and improved underbody airflow.

Another first for Acura are the TSX's new dual-mode suspension dampers, which adjust compression damping characteristics to suit the vehicle speed, cornering forces and road surface.

Electronics

The TSX has a number of new standard and optional technologies. Bluetooth connectivity is standard and now includes a HandsFreeLink cellular telephone interface.

Other standard features include a power passenger seat, a new folding key with remote entry, new automatic headlight activation, a premium 7-speaker sound system with CD, AM/FM/XM, and USB port music interface. A HomeLink remote control system is also standard.

The Technology Package comes with a 10-speaker premium sound system tuned by Elliot Scheiner, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, AcuraLink Real-time traffic, AcuraLink weather, and the highly useful AcuraLink Satellite Communication System. The navigation system also features Real-time traffic covering 76 major metropolitan markets, and offers Traffic Rerouting with dynamic route guidance to help navigate around slow-downs.

Safety

The car comes with six airbags, three-point seatbelts and head restraints in all seating positions, and front seatbelt load limiters with an integrated automatic tensioning system.

A new Active Headrest Restrain System is used for the first time on the TSX, while the rear seat features the LATCH anchor system for child seats.

Particular attention has been paid to the front of the car, where the new "Advanced Compatibility Engineering" body structure is configured to absorb impacts from a wider variety of bumper heights and types. Meanwhile, the deformable hood helps prevent pedestrian injury.