Comments on: Without the RSX, does Acura lack personality? http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html Car news, reviews, and specs for the auto-industry Fri, 10 Feb 2012 20:27:00 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.1 By: Drew http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-223070 Drew Mon, 14 Aug 2006 21:17:52 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-223070 That V10 NSX will be a beast, not to mention the unnamed $50k sports car Acura is working on That V10 NSX will be a beast, not to mention the unnamed $50k sports car Acura is working on

]]> By: Dixon Butts http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-209831 Dixon Butts Fri, 28 Jul 2006 10:16:56 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-209831 Screw neons, screw stratus, focus, cobalt, on and on..and so many think the RSX is bad? Heh, ya with minimal engine building an RSX can run mid to high 12s (yes, I have done it and for not that much money, still well below the cost of a shoebox shaped WRX or EVO) and handle twisties like a knife. Thanks to true long term racing heritage for that. Honda rules for the pocket rockets, and that is what they are giving up on it seems, after inventing the market. Well, that and silly ricers with 5ft tall wings and fart can exhausts. Screw neons, screw stratus, focus, cobalt, on and on..and so many think the RSX is bad? Heh, ya with minimal engine building an RSX can run mid to high 12s (yes, I have done it and for not that much money, still well below the cost of a shoebox shaped WRX or EVO) and handle twisties like a knife. Thanks to true long term racing heritage for that. Honda rules for the pocket rockets, and that is what they are giving up on it seems, after inventing the market. Well, that and silly ricers with 5ft tall wings and fart can exhausts.

]]> By: Jake C borunda http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-194944 Jake C borunda Thu, 13 Jul 2006 03:08:15 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-194944 The new Civic Si would serv as a great starting point for a base sport coup over at Acura. A sportier modle with more power and better handleing carracteristics would make for an excelent Type-S. The new Civic Si would serv as a great starting point for a base sport coup over at Acura. A sportier modle with more power and better handleing carracteristics would make for an excelent Type-S.

]]> By: Darren http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-194029 Darren Wed, 12 Jul 2006 20:48:47 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-194029 acura is losing after it renamed its entire lineup using letters & now the only acura I like is new RDX & TSX but I prefer mazda cx-7 instead. Acura decide to offer a coupe version to replace its RSX when the new TSX appears as the new accord arrives in 2008. acura is losing after it renamed its entire lineup using letters & now the only acura I like is new RDX & TSX but I prefer mazda cx-7 instead. Acura decide to offer a coupe version to replace its RSX when the new TSX appears as the new accord arrives in 2008.

]]> By: Kevin http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-193307 Kevin Wed, 12 Jul 2006 05:22:59 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-193307 That's truely a shame. I have allways enjoyed the RSX, and now with the discontinuation of the RSX, leaves me to feel that Acura is lining it's self up for cars directed toward the older generation. That’s truely a shame. I have allways enjoyed the RSX, and now with the discontinuation of the RSX, leaves me to feel that Acura is lining it’s self up for cars directed toward the older generation.

]]> By: Anonymous http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-190777 Anonymous Mon, 10 Jul 2006 20:08:37 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-190777 Acura has no personalty. Tell me another one. My Cobalt LS is a way better car than some stupid Honda. Acura has no personalty. Tell me another one. My Cobalt LS is a way better car than some stupid Honda.

]]> By: Cartman http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-190501 Cartman Mon, 10 Jul 2006 18:09:05 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-190501 FWD just doesn't cut it outside of the compact/subcompact segment. Until they realize this Acura will never be taken seriously by enthusiast sedan buyers, which is a shame because they produce some great motors. They just need a chassis to go with them. And I don't see how a new NSX is going to sell TLs. One has nothing do with the other. The only people buying Acura sedans are those that can't afford the superior German product or aren't able to tell the difference. FWD just doesn’t cut it outside of the compact/subcompact segment. Until they realize this Acura will never be taken seriously by enthusiast sedan buyers, which is a shame because they produce some great motors. They just need a chassis to go with them. And I don’t see how a new NSX is going to sell TLs. One has nothing do with the other. The only people buying Acura sedans are those that can’t afford the superior German product or aren’t able to tell the difference.

]]> By: Veda http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-189398 Veda Sun, 09 Jul 2006 16:59:16 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-189398 "Oh, and I've owned Acuras for 13 years. The next car will almost certainly NOT be an Acura. They are becoming stale and stuffy." Coming from someone who currently personally owns 1000+ cars, that's true for any ride. “Oh, and I’ve owned Acuras for 13 years. The next car will almost certainly NOT be an Acura. They are becoming stale and stuffy.”

Coming from someone who currently personally owns 1000+ cars, that’s true for any ride.

]]> By: Veda http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-189396 Veda Sun, 09 Jul 2006 16:58:51 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-189396 BTW, I'm referring to the current gen Accord which is the first time they didn't beat the Camry right. BTW, I’m referring to the current gen Accord which is the first time they didn’t beat the Camry right.

]]> By: Veda http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-189388 Veda Sun, 09 Jul 2006 16:51:50 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-189388 Patrick, huge seller but not up to Honda's initial expectation which in their view is not a success. I've been in the business since the 70's dealing with Hondas so if you don't know what Honda is really thinking it's not my problem. Patrick, huge seller but not up to Honda’s initial expectation which in their view is not a success. I’ve been in the business since the 70′s dealing with Hondas so if you don’t know what Honda is really thinking it’s not my problem.

]]> By: Craig http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-189201 Craig Sun, 09 Jul 2006 05:30:59 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-189201 The Accord is a sales success story. The Accord is a sales success story.

]]> By: Karl T http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-189132 Karl T Sun, 09 Jul 2006 03:10:34 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-189132 True, Acura's performance image is limited by a FWD line-up and SUV stable. They may be able to squeeze 'Sporty' out of the TSX and TL, but they are far from being peformance sedans and I laugh at those that claim they compete with BMW, Lexus, etc. I can't even begin to recall the last comparison where the phrase "...but for the money, the Acura...". THAT is their selling point - almost as much car for not as much money. The cars are great for what 95% of buyers will use them for, but they are not the level of the Germans and other upscale Asian brands. However, if there is a market segment called "Soccer moms and nerd dads", Acura has it locked-up. Oh, and I've owned Acuras for 13 years. The next car will almost certainly NOT be an Acura. They are becoming stale and stuffy. True, Acura’s performance image is limited by a FWD line-up and SUV stable. They may be able to squeeze ‘Sporty’ out of the TSX and TL, but they are far from being peformance sedans and I laugh at those that claim they compete with BMW, Lexus, etc. I can’t even begin to recall the last comparison where the phrase “…but for the money, the Acura…”. THAT is their selling point – almost as much car for not as much money. The cars are great for what 95% of buyers will use them for, but they are not the level of the Germans and other upscale Asian brands.

However, if there is a market segment called “Soccer moms and nerd dads”, Acura has it locked-up.

Oh, and I’ve owned Acuras for 13 years. The next car will almost certainly NOT be an Acura. They are becoming stale and stuffy.

]]> By: Craig http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188807 Craig Sat, 08 Jul 2006 19:19:39 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188807 Veda, the big deal with RWD is that it is a preference pure and simple. I can tell the difference between how a FWD car feels and handles and how a RWD car feels and handles. I happen to prefer RWD even for every day driving. It communicates to me in a way I appreciate and I prefer how a RWD car handles in turns. Yes, a 3.0L Accord is a quick vehicle. I just personally don't like it for how it drives and, sorry... it looks like an egg. If you don't care one way or the other about the drivetrain when you shop for a car-- fine. There is nothing wrong with that and you should get what you want. I don't think I'm being that picky about my prerequisites for a car I would buy simply because I know what I want based on previous cars I have driven. Veda, the big deal with RWD is that it is a preference pure and simple. I can tell the difference between how a FWD car feels and handles and how a RWD car feels and handles. I happen to prefer RWD even for every day driving. It communicates to me in a way I appreciate and I prefer how a RWD car handles in turns. Yes, a 3.0L Accord is a quick vehicle. I just personally don’t like it for how it drives and, sorry… it looks like an egg.

If you don’t care one way or the other about the drivetrain when you shop for a car– fine. There is nothing wrong with that and you should get what you want.

I don’t think I’m being that picky about my prerequisites for a car I would buy simply because I know what I want based on previous cars I have driven.

]]> By: Veda http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188711 Veda Sat, 08 Jul 2006 17:06:19 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188711 PAUL, Honda by itself needs some revamp on their product lines especially with the failed Accord and the controversial new grill on the upcoming CRV. Sales of the Accord should be a wake up call to Honda that style matters. If the new CRV falls because of the same reason, they better get the new Accord right or they're stuck with the smaller cars as income and take longer to fix Acura. PAUL, Honda by itself needs some revamp on their product lines especially with the failed Accord and the controversial new grill on the upcoming CRV. Sales of the Accord should be a wake up call to Honda that style matters. If the new CRV falls because of the same reason, they better get the new Accord right or they’re stuck with the smaller cars as income and take longer to fix Acura.

]]> By: PAUL D. http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188704 PAUL D. Sat, 08 Jul 2006 16:53:05 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188704 Interesting approach Miles.I think while Acura has been faltering a bit with the cars like the RL, Honda motors is cooking up something uniquely special for us. BUT, I think their concentration is on the next gen Accord, a model that in itself faltered in both expectations and especially sales. With the smash hit from the Camry and the competitive offerings from Altima/ MZ6/ Fusion tripletsa, Honda really needs to nail the next Accord or they will see a huge hit in both sales and especially persona that Honda can still build a damn fine car. Once the Accord arrives, I think we'll see the focus on rebuilding Acura into a viable competitor to Lexus/Infiniti and the German rivals. I hope I am right here or I too will be extremely disappointed. Interesting approach Miles.I think while Acura has been faltering a bit with the cars like the RL, Honda motors is cooking up something uniquely special for us. BUT, I think their concentration is on the next gen Accord, a model that in itself faltered in both expectations and especially sales. With the smash hit from the Camry and the competitive offerings from Altima/ MZ6/ Fusion tripletsa, Honda really needs to nail the next Accord or they will see a huge hit in both sales and especially persona that Honda can still build a damn fine car. Once the Accord arrives, I think we’ll see the focus on rebuilding Acura into a viable competitor to Lexus/Infiniti and the German rivals.

I hope I am right here or I too will be extremely disappointed.

]]> By: Miles http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188649 Miles Sat, 08 Jul 2006 15:55:29 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188649 Considering that Acura was Honda's attempt to position themselves away from the at-the-time image of Japanese automobiles as cheap econoboxes, I can't help but wonder if the long-term move may very well be to phase out the Acura branding, and make the TSX, TL, etc. straight-out "Honda" products. Considering that Acura was Honda’s attempt to position themselves away from the at-the-time image of Japanese automobiles as cheap econoboxes, I can’t help but wonder if the long-term move may very well be to phase out the Acura branding, and make the TSX, TL, etc. straight-out “Honda” products.

]]> By: Veda http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188593 Veda Sat, 08 Jul 2006 14:34:22 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188593 "Acrua, why do you think I will pay you $26,000+ for a front wheel drive luxury car?" Then what about the Audi A4? Or Volvo S40? While I don't like the TSX one bit, if I'm looking for a luxury car around that price, I'd still consider it due to the gas comsumption. That and the typical Honda reliability which is a big factor when comparing to the rattling and problematic C230. I don't know what the big deal is with RWD. A 3.0 Accord will be faster than anything else on the California freeway during regular daily commute if needs be. If a vehicle can do you 100mph nonstop for 1 hour while still rides comfortably then there's no point of paying more. Any quicker or aggressive would tag you a speeding ticket anyway so it's a battle of courage not skill. How often do you drag race anyway? “Acrua, why do you think I will pay you $26,000+ for a front wheel drive luxury car?”

Then what about the Audi A4? Or Volvo S40? While I don’t like the TSX one bit, if I’m looking for a luxury car around that price, I’d still consider it due to the gas comsumption. That and the typical Honda reliability which is a big factor when comparing to the rattling and problematic C230.

I don’t know what the big deal is with RWD. A 3.0 Accord will be faster than anything else on the California freeway during regular daily commute if needs be. If a vehicle can do you 100mph nonstop for 1 hour while still rides comfortably then there’s no point of paying more. Any quicker or aggressive would tag you a speeding ticket anyway so it’s a battle of courage not skill. How often do you drag race anyway?

]]> By: Patrick http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188591 Patrick Sat, 08 Jul 2006 14:27:53 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188591 The TSX and TL are extremely sporty vehicles, they compete against the German rivals without any trouble and often times surpass them. The new RDX sport utility is an incredibly sporty SUV, small and easy to maneuver with good handling. The RL and MDX are different stories, but dont forget about the cars in acura's lineup that ARE sporty The TSX and TL are extremely sporty vehicles, they compete against the German rivals without any trouble and often times surpass them. The new RDX sport utility is an incredibly sporty SUV, small and easy to maneuver with good handling. The RL and MDX are different stories, but dont forget about the cars in acura’s lineup that ARE sporty

]]> By: Craig http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188370 Craig Sat, 08 Jul 2006 08:40:57 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188370 Just to level the playing field a bit, I also don't care one bit about Lexus products. I appreciate that they build many of their offerings in rear wheel drive but I find the lack of stiffer suspensions, too light and overpowered steering and fairly boring engine choices that have nowhere near the fuel efficiency of Honda products major turnoffs. Lexus does sell a lot of cars for some reason. Good for them, but I am not one of their customers. I loved the first IS300 but they've done much to destroy a good thing with that car. Now here's a really good suggestion: The Lexus IS300 was sold as the Toyota Altezza in Japan with a 2.0L four-cylinder 200HP engine. Honda/Acura should copy the original Altezza philosophy and replace the TSX with it. Make it a 250HP RWD four cylinder with excellent gas mileage and similar build and interior quality to the TSX and you've got a winner that sells. And don't forget to make a 6-speed manual available. It all goes back to the late 80's to early 90's BMW 3-Series and M3. All of these companies know this. They all know that the ideal those cars embodied are what they must produce to be competetive, so why don't they? Acrua, why do you think I will pay you $26,000+ for a front wheel drive luxury car? Just to level the playing field a bit, I also don’t care one bit about Lexus products. I appreciate that they build many of their offerings in rear wheel drive but I find the lack of stiffer suspensions, too light and overpowered steering and fairly boring engine choices that have nowhere near the fuel efficiency of Honda products major turnoffs.

Lexus does sell a lot of cars for some reason. Good for them, but I am not one of their customers. I loved the first IS300 but they’ve done much to destroy a good thing with that car.

Now here’s a really good suggestion:

The Lexus IS300 was sold as the Toyota Altezza in Japan with a 2.0L four-cylinder 200HP engine.

Honda/Acura should copy the original Altezza philosophy and replace the TSX with it. Make it a 250HP RWD four cylinder with excellent gas mileage and similar build and interior quality to the TSX and you’ve got a winner that sells. And don’t forget to make a 6-speed manual available.

It all goes back to the late 80′s to early 90′s BMW 3-Series and M3. All of these companies know this. They all know that the ideal those cars embodied are what they must produce to be competetive, so why don’t they?

Acrua, why do you think I will pay you $26,000+ for a front wheel drive luxury car?

]]> By: Craig http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188366 Craig Sat, 08 Jul 2006 08:26:56 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188366 I like the Honda Insight, Fit and four door Civic but therwise, I don't really care about any other Honda-Acura products save the S2000 and departed NSX which are both focused sportscars. Why? Honda excels in making very gas efficient small cars with cargo room in a small package. I'm already sold on buying a Honda for a small vehicle to commute with and haul equipment in. I am not, however, impressed by or the least bit interested in any of the Accord line or any Acura vehicle. The article speaks the truth: Acura has no sport heritage and all their vehicles are hampered by a Front Wheel Drive layout. If I am going to care about a luxury car, it had better have a more mature and sedated version of the driving dynamics and a drivetrain configuration I expect in a sportscar. Nothing Honda builds save the S2000 and NSX philosophies have delivered anything close in ideal-- and those are very much hardcore racing vehicles which make the comparison very difficult to make. The problem for Acura is that if a buyer such as myself were looking for an upscale sedan, for instance, I'd look to BMW, Mercedes and Infiniti first-- and in that order. Instead of buying a 200 horsepower, naturally aspirated 2.4 liter, Front Drive Acura TSX or its larger TL sibling which is also FWD, I would highly consider a new or pre-owned Mercedes C230. The recent C230 is rear wheel drive, only 3300lbs curb weight, extremely luxurious, has a fantastic electronic key and immobilizer system and a 1.8L DOHC supercharged four-cylinder engine making 190 horsepower and a good amount of torque. And you can opt for a 6-speed manual if you like. Need I emphasize that the car is rear-drive and supercharged with an available 6-speed manual or a very nice automatic? If the sticker price of the Merc is way above the Acura, I'd still opt to find a slightly used Merc C230 over an Acura TSX. I like the Honda Insight, Fit and four door Civic but therwise, I don’t really care about any other Honda-Acura products save the S2000 and departed NSX which are both focused sportscars.

Why? Honda excels in making very gas efficient small cars with cargo room in a small package. I’m already sold on buying a Honda for a small vehicle to commute with and haul equipment in.

I am not, however, impressed by or the least bit interested in any of the Accord line or any Acura vehicle. The article speaks the truth: Acura has no sport heritage and all their vehicles are hampered by a Front Wheel Drive layout.

If I am going to care about a luxury car, it had better have a more mature and sedated version of the driving dynamics and a drivetrain configuration I expect in a sportscar. Nothing Honda builds save the S2000 and NSX philosophies have delivered anything close in ideal– and those are very much hardcore racing vehicles which make the comparison very difficult to make.

The problem for Acura is that if a buyer such as myself were looking for an upscale sedan, for instance, I’d look to BMW, Mercedes and Infiniti first– and in that order.

Instead of buying a 200 horsepower, naturally aspirated 2.4 liter, Front Drive Acura TSX or its larger TL sibling which is also FWD, I would highly consider a new or pre-owned Mercedes C230. The recent C230 is rear wheel drive, only 3300lbs curb weight, extremely luxurious, has a fantastic electronic key and immobilizer system and a 1.8L DOHC supercharged four-cylinder engine making 190 horsepower and a good amount of torque. And you can opt for a 6-speed manual if you like.

Need I emphasize that the car is rear-drive and supercharged with an available 6-speed manual or a very nice automatic?

If the sticker price of the Merc is way above the Acura, I’d still opt to find a slightly used Merc C230 over an Acura TSX.

]]> By: VDub http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188205 VDub Sat, 08 Jul 2006 04:06:15 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188205 I think acura should up the ante in the performance area. don't get me wrong, i drive an acura myself but i would take a g35 or IS over a TL anyday. I think acura should up the ante in the performance area. don’t get me wrong, i drive an acura myself but i would take a g35 or IS over a TL anyday.

]]> By: Anil Natha http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188166 Anil Natha Sat, 08 Jul 2006 03:20:56 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188166 Is it possible that they discontinued the RSX because of dimenshing sales and perhaps because they are working on it's replacement? I think so. I have no doubt there is a new Acura coupe on the way. Whether it's based on the TSX platform powered by the new RDX turbo motor, or a larger coupe based around the TL platform with a V6 powered motor I have faith in Acura to not leave us hanging for too long. Is it possible that they discontinued the RSX because of dimenshing sales and perhaps because they are working on it’s replacement? I think so.

I have no doubt there is a new Acura coupe on the way. Whether it’s based on the TSX platform powered by the new RDX turbo motor, or a larger coupe based around the TL platform with a V6 powered motor I have faith in Acura to not leave us hanging for too long.

]]> By: Manraj http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188149 Manraj Sat, 08 Jul 2006 03:17:07 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188149 It's true that Acura needs a halo car, but the NSX is obviously coming soon so keep your pants on everyone. As for being rebadged Hondas, Infiniti and Lexus do the same thing. Don't even get me started on the American brands with regards to that. And V V, you think the IS for Lexus makes it more exciting? TSX is just as, if not more exiciting than the IS. IS is just another car. It’s true that Acura needs a halo car, but the NSX is obviously coming soon so keep your pants on everyone. As for being rebadged Hondas, Infiniti and Lexus do the same thing. Don’t even get me started on the American brands with regards to that. And V V, you think the IS for Lexus makes it more exciting? TSX is just as, if not more exiciting than the IS. IS is just another car.

]]> By: VB http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188091 VB Sat, 08 Jul 2006 02:50:59 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188091 Twenty years ago when Honda decided to get into the premium luxury business, they decided to create a brand name that would set these cars (two at that time) apart from their other cars. In other words, they thought it would be really difficult (in the USA) to have a $26K premium luxury sedan (Honda Legend) on the same showroom floor with a $6K econobox (Honda Civic). To appease the American tastes, they decided to create a new brand name (Acura) for these new cars (Legend, Integra) that would be called Hondas everywhere else. I saw a right-hand-drive RSX that was actually badged Honda Integra The Integra/RSX captured my attention since the first on rolled off the boat in '86. Finally, after years of driving around in the automotive equivalent of sensible shoes, I wound up with an RSX coupe in my driveway. Soft ride be damned! I'm wondering what Honda has up their sleeve. It would be a major mistake in my opinion if that slot was never filled. A TSX Coupe would be a good idea if they did a total redesign on the TSX. It's time for at least a facelift on the TSX. As nice as it is, the body has been around for a while (They've been calling them Accords in the UK....wagon variants, even). But what if the new TSX had rear-wheel-drive? Coupe and sedan variations. Don't forget the 6-speed manual transmission! Oh well!! Twenty years ago when Honda decided to get into the premium luxury business, they decided to create a brand name that would set these cars (two at that time) apart from their other cars. In other words, they thought it would be really difficult (in the USA) to have a $26K premium luxury sedan (Honda Legend) on the same showroom floor with a $6K econobox (Honda Civic). To appease the American tastes, they decided to create a new brand name (Acura) for these new cars (Legend, Integra) that would be called Hondas everywhere else. I saw a right-hand-drive RSX that was actually badged Honda Integra The Integra/RSX captured my attention since the first on rolled off the boat in ’86. Finally, after years of driving around in the automotive equivalent of sensible shoes, I wound up with an RSX coupe in my driveway. Soft ride be damned! I’m wondering what Honda has up their sleeve. It would be a major mistake in my opinion if that slot was never filled. A TSX Coupe would be a good idea if they did a total redesign on the TSX. It’s time for at least a facelift on the TSX. As nice as it is, the body has been around for a while (They’ve been calling them Accords in the UK….wagon variants, even).

But what if the new TSX had rear-wheel-drive? Coupe and sedan variations. Don’t forget the 6-speed manual transmission! Oh well!!

]]> By: British_Rover http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188068 British_Rover Sat, 08 Jul 2006 02:06:42 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188068 The TL is actually based on the platform of the Euro Spec Accord. We fat americans get a special Accord that is much larger then what the rest of the world gets so we can fit our fat asses in it. Acura is starting to go to forced induction and AWD now. The RDX will have a 240 plus hp turbo charged awd drivetrain. Stick that drive train into a TSX with a manual and watch Acura crush the competition. The TL is actually based on the platform of the Euro Spec Accord. We fat americans get a special Accord that is much larger then what the rest of the world gets so we can fit our fat asses in it.

Acura is starting to go to forced induction and AWD now. The RDX will have a 240 plus hp turbo charged awd drivetrain.

Stick that drive train into a TSX with a manual and watch Acura crush the competition.

]]> By: Greg http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-188038 Greg Sat, 08 Jul 2006 01:23:22 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-188038 The Honda Prelude is the best car Honda ever made. Case closed. The Honda Prelude is the best car Honda ever made. Case closed.

]]> By: Kylie http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187904 Kylie Fri, 07 Jul 2006 22:28:09 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187904 Acuras never had any personality Acuras never had any personality

]]> By: Ryan http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187903 Ryan Fri, 07 Jul 2006 22:27:46 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187903 I think Acura should keep the RSX around at least until they release a TSX coupe or something of the sort. The RSX is a great car, and the fact that it hit C&D's 10 Best List twice in a row should prove that. Yes sales may have been slowing, but this sporty hiatus makes Acura look a bit Toyota to someone like me (MR2, Celica, etc) I think Acura should keep the RSX around at least until they release a TSX coupe or something of the sort. The RSX is a great car, and the fact that it hit C&D’s 10 Best List twice in a row should prove that. Yes sales may have been slowing, but this sporty hiatus makes Acura look a bit Toyota to someone like me (MR2, Celica, etc)

]]> By: Kyle http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187901 Kyle Fri, 07 Jul 2006 22:23:11 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187901 that's exactly why i thought they where pulling the plug on the RSX - not posh enough compared to "low-end" mercedes and BMW's that’s exactly why i thought they where pulling the plug on the RSX – not posh enough compared to “low-end” mercedes and BMW’s

]]> By: Kyle http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187895 Kyle Fri, 07 Jul 2006 22:01:39 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187895 I do think that Acura's disdain of V8's, forced induction, and RWD platforms hurts them in when you talk about "real" cars. Don't get me wrong, I love Acura's as I own a TL Type-S, but as much fun as that car is, I know there is something principaly better about a C class, 3 series, IS or any other similar RWD car. For the record, though, aren't the TL and RL's unique to Acura? The TSX is an accord, and the RSX is a ... civic? But if i understand correctly, the TL/CL has a unique platform. I do think that Acura’s disdain of V8′s, forced induction, and RWD platforms hurts them in when you talk about “real” cars. Don’t get me wrong, I love Acura’s as I own a TL Type-S, but as much fun as that car is, I know there is something principaly better about a C class, 3 series, IS or any other similar RWD car. For the record, though, aren’t the TL and RL’s unique to Acura? The TSX is an accord, and the RSX is a … civic? But if i understand correctly, the TL/CL has a unique platform.

]]> By: The Stig http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187893 The Stig Fri, 07 Jul 2006 21:54:41 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187893 Acura must surely be working on a halo design. Acura must surely be working on a halo design.

]]> By: Dave M. http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187888 Dave M. Fri, 07 Jul 2006 21:38:30 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187888 I agree wholeheartedly with British Rover. Acura represents sporty luxury to me. They could use a flag-bearer though..... I agree wholeheartedly with British Rover. Acura represents sporty luxury to me. They could use a flag-bearer though…..

]]> By: Peter http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187884 Peter Fri, 07 Jul 2006 21:32:57 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187884 I think they should have a car that complements the S2000 I think they should have a car that complements the S2000

]]> By: British_rover http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187883 British_rover Fri, 07 Jul 2006 21:32:40 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187883 That is funny because I always considered Acura to be the most soulful of the japanese brands. Lexus are just boring with no soul at all. Infiniti is trying but their styling is a little akward to some people. Acura has some nice styling and some good driving exciting cars. Yeah sure they area all FWD but they are great driving FWD cars. I thought the plan for acura was to remake it as the luxury/sport AWD brand with all vehicles avaliable with SH-AWD. If that is still the plan I think they will find a nice niche in the market. That is funny because I always considered Acura to be the most soulful of the japanese brands. Lexus are just boring with no soul at all. Infiniti is trying but their styling is a little akward to some people. Acura has some nice styling and some good driving exciting cars. Yeah sure they area all FWD but they are great driving FWD cars. I thought the plan for acura was to remake it as the luxury/sport AWD brand with all vehicles avaliable with SH-AWD. If that is still the plan I think they will find a nice niche in the market.

]]> By: Madcapp http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187881 Madcapp Fri, 07 Jul 2006 21:31:02 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187881 Why would Honda have turned its back on the Acura Integra nameplate? And then brought over a Civic SI that looked like a doorstop? Alarming that they would have made 2 transparently bas decisions such as that. Why would Honda have turned its back on the Acura Integra nameplate? And then brought over a Civic SI that looked like a doorstop? Alarming that they would have made 2 transparently bas decisions such as that.

]]> By: JW http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187867 JW Fri, 07 Jul 2006 21:12:13 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187867 Isn't that Honda's place to be the sport brand, and Acura as the luxury? I'm not saying they shouldn't have a sports car, but is Honda not as good as Acura, they are almost the same, just one costs more. Isn’t that Honda’s place to be the sport brand, and Acura as the luxury? I’m not saying they shouldn’t have a sports car, but is Honda not as good as Acura, they are almost the same, just one costs more.

]]> By: v2 http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187866 v2 Fri, 07 Jul 2006 21:06:26 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187866 #6, I may agree with you a little on that...when a nicely optioned Accord is like $30K what is left over for Acura to offer especially when all the biggies are pushing into the under $30K scene anyways. There must be something more to it than we're seeing as far as brand loyalty or something. It's odd. Honda should just offer special order "A-spec" (get it, Acura spec? ok, maybe not entertaining) versions of the equivelant honda offerings. #6, I may agree with you a little on that…when a nicely optioned Accord is like $30K what is left over for Acura to offer especially when all the biggies are pushing into the under $30K scene anyways. There must be something more to it than we’re seeing as far as brand loyalty or something. It’s odd. Honda should just offer special order “A-spec” (get it, Acura spec? ok, maybe not entertaining) versions of the equivelant honda offerings.

]]> By: Atomicbri http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187857 Atomicbri Fri, 07 Jul 2006 20:49:17 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187857 I think Honda needs to either make Acura a true brand or just fold up shop. All of their models are based off Hondas....nothing original or designed specifically for Acura. Even the NSX was a Honda in other markets. Its almost like Honda doesn't care and just keeps Acura around to import cars.... really strange since Acura was the original Japanese Luxury company, Now it is a bit of a joke when compared to Infiniti and Lexus,,, I think Honda needs to either make Acura a true brand or just fold up shop. All of their models are based off Hondas….nothing original or designed specifically for Acura. Even the NSX was a Honda in other markets. Its almost like Honda doesn’t care and just keeps Acura around to import cars…. really strange since Acura was the original Japanese Luxury company, Now it is a bit of a joke when compared to Infiniti and Lexus,,,

]]> By: J http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187856 J Fri, 07 Jul 2006 20:46:39 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187856 Any word on the TSX coupe? Any word on the TSX coupe?

]]> By: Dallas http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187855 Dallas Fri, 07 Jul 2006 20:46:20 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187855 Acura lacks personality WITH the RSX Acura lacks personality WITH the RSX

]]> By: Anonymous http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187854 Anonymous Fri, 07 Jul 2006 20:45:44 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187854 the nsx is coming back, but i agree lets see that tsx coupe concept! would it kill honda to make a rear drive sedan? and cars like the rl, need a v8, wow that would be amazing if honda made one the nsx is coming back, but i agree lets see that tsx coupe concept! would it kill honda to make a rear drive sedan? and cars like the rl, need a v8, wow that would be amazing if honda made one

]]> By: V V http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187850 V V Fri, 07 Jul 2006 20:41:10 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187850 Agreed, even thought I don't like the RSX, Acura don't have a car people want to talk about. The image of the brand is going down. Ex. BMW has the M3 and M5 cars, Audi the S line or TT, Lexus has the IS and Acura nothing. Tl is nice but RL MDX are just boring. Agreed, even thought I don’t like the RSX, Acura don’t have a car people want to talk about. The image of the brand is going down. Ex. BMW has the M3 and M5 cars, Audi the S line or TT, Lexus has the IS and Acura nothing. Tl is nice but RL MDX are just boring.

]]> By: Kevin http://www.leftlanenews.com/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality.html#comment-187847 Kevin Fri, 07 Jul 2006 20:36:07 +0000 http://www.leftlanenews.com/2006/07/07/without-the-rsx-does-acura-lack-personality/#comment-187847 Aww skeet skeet! Aww skeet skeet!

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