The Acura TSX has often been hailed as one of the best handling front-wheel drive cars on the market, but has also been criticized for a lack of power. But Acura addressed that criticism today at the Chicago Auto Show, unveiling a more power TSX V6.
Based on the standard Acura TSX, the new model adds the same 3.5L VTEC V6 found under the hood of the larger TL sedan, boosting the TSX’s power from a rather mundane 201 horsepower to a healthy 280. Torque is also significantly improved, jumping from 170 lb-ft to 254 lb-ft. Power for the TSX V6 will be routed to the car’s front wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission.
To help cope with the added power, many of the TSX V6’s components have been beefed up. The TSX V6 features a new sports suspension, bigger wheels and tires and upgraded brakes.
As the new TSX V6 will be bridging the gap between the four-cylinder TSX and the up-level TL, the car’s interior has been appropriately updated. A leather interior, power moonroof and Bluetooth have been moved up from optional to standard, with Acura ’s technology package still available.
Despite the down market, the TSX’s sales improved 11 percent in January, with the new V6 model only expected to increase those figures. Pricing for the TSX V6 has not been released as of yet, but expect the more powerful model to roll into Acura dealers this summer.
