2006 Acura TSX Road Test

More than an A4

Looking for an Audi A4 2.0T? Look no further than the 2006 Acura TSX. In many ways these two entry-level premium sports sedans are alike; in

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

many ways however they differ. Both are propelled through their front wheels (unless Audi Quattro is ordered) by a 4-banger powerplant of similar size and potency, and each car is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission unless an automatic is opted for- but why would you? Both cars have beautifully constructed cabins and optimal build quality throughout. They both look great, although here I give the A4 the edge but ever so slightly. Both cars exhibit excellent handling prowess, as they should. And both cars are in the same starting blocks when it comes to price, yet I would argue that Acura stuffs more standard content into its little sled than Audi.

So where's the biggest difference in these two pearls of fuel-efficient, dynamic motoring? I find the TSX to be more refined in its operation,

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

quieter on the road and smoother riding; simply a more pleasurable car to drive if pleasure is measured by ride comfort and serenity in addition to agility and raw performance. With this mini comparison aside, it's time to focus on the Japanese contender and let the Bavarian challenger free on the nearest autobahn. But let me assure you, it's not only the A4 that is autobahn-attuned. The TSX is a wonderful highway car that's deftly precise in the corners. It offers plenty of steering feedback and road feel to keep its driver well informed of progress at all four corners. If the TSX has a highway shortcoming, it's found in the passing lane.

To squeeze all 205 horsepower from its 2.4 litre, DOHC i-VTEC-equipped engine, the tachometer needs to hit the 7,000 rpm mark. Along the way a

(Photo: Rob Rothwell)

maximum torque output of 164 foot-pounds will arrive at 4,500 rpm. This means that working the gearbox is a must in order to coax the every scintilla of juice from the high-octane consuming mill, which is up by 5 horsepower for 2006. But hey- isn't mixing cogs at every opportunity part of the man-to-machine interface that buyers of sports sedans so earnestly seek? Yet, without shifting like Michael Schumacher, the TSX is a sprightly performer off-the-line and whenever needed. Should however the Schumacher urge arise, throwing the stick in the TSX is pure glee. It swings lightly from post to post with defined clarity and assured deftness while complemented by a light-throw, easily modulated clutch. In short, its exhilarating handling, sweet stick and high-rev punch makes the TSX a fun car to unwind when and where appropriate. And if needed, it can stop with precision thanks to a powerful set of antilock disc brakes augmented with an electronic Brake Assist program- the result of which can easily reposition a faulty hairpiece.