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2011 Acura TSX V6 Tech Review

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Rob Rothwell
Sporty sedan inspires in many ways
V6 power and refinement redefine the TSX
Displacing 3.5 litres, the optional SOHC V6 engine produces 280 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm and 254 pound-feet of torque @ 5,000 rpm. These are healthy numbers for such a small, lightweight sedan; the sum of which transforms the normally brisk TSX into a blazing ride.

2011 Acura TSX V6 Technology engine
Displacing 3.5 litres, the optional SOHC V6 engine produces 280 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm and 254 pound-feet of torque @ 5,000 rpm. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com)

Perhaps more enjoyable than the wealth of power generated by the big-boy engine is its delightful degree of operational refinement. The powerplant is wonderfully smooth and creamy during normal driving inputs but takes on a genteel, deep growl when pushed.

There’s plenty of torque on tap at most any speed, which is a pleasing attribute of the V6 over the 2.4L engine that typically powers the TSX. Both engines utilize a 5-speed automatic, which can be controlled via shift paddles.

The autobox, which features a sport mode, worked flawlessly but it’s not a sophisticated double-clutch affair, and with only five cogs to spin it’s becoming a little dated when stacked against the more typical six and seven gears of other offerings in the premium market.

However, it wasn’t the limited cluster of cogs that I most quarreled with; it was the torque-steer that crept in when the engine was called upon to show its mettle. The TSX is strictly a front-wheel drive sedan, so there’s no escaping the devil by opting for AWD.

It should be noted, though, that the devil’s appearance is not a dealbreaker by any stretch. The symptoms can be easily managed once anticipated and accounted for; besides, the many other fine qualities of this V6-powered TSX more than makeup for the detraction.

Ride and handling please and inspire
Place the torque-steer issue on the shelf for now while I provide some quick thoughts on ride and handling. Finding the balance between these two dynamics is a difficult proposition, especially when the vehicle isn’t equipped with a programmable suspension that enables the driver to select from several settings intended to emphasize ride or handling characteristics.

Despite the lack of settings, Acura has honed the underpinnings of the TSX to capture the best of both worlds. This compact sedan delivers a notably controlled and composed ride in which the driver feels connected to the roadway but not punished by it.

2011 Acura TSX V6 Technology left side view
The TSX V6 Technology provides its occupants with much to admire while delivering rewarding driving characteristics. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com)
Rob Rothwell
Rob Rothwell
Automotive expert
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