"Added convenience features and freshened styling highlight 2006 for the entry-level sedan at Honda's upscale division. TSX has a 205-hp 4-cyl engine with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed automatic with manual shift capability. ABS, an antiskid system, and 17-inch alloy wheels are standard. So are head-protecting curtain side airbags and front side airbags. The TSX also comes with leather upholstery with heated front seats, sunroof, and xenon headlamps. For '06, it adds Acura's HandsFreeLink, a wireless connection for using cell phones through the audio system; a memory system for the driver seat; and a digital-media auxiliary jack. The only option is a navigation system, which is priced as a separate model and includes voice recognition for some navigation, audio, and climate functions. "

"We hear this Acura will be redesigned for either 2007 or '08. Timing depends on Honda's schedule for a new European-market Accord, which parents the upscale, U.S.-only TSX."

"Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.
Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are Acura TSX, Audi A4, and BMW 3-Series. At this time we have no Recommended picks.
New or significantly redesigned models in this class include Audi A3 and Lexus IS."

Acceleration
"Test manual-transmission TSX did 7.9 sec 0-60 mph. Delights with light, precise shift/clutch action. Modest power below 3000 rpm, so highway passing or merging requires careful gear selection. Slow from a stop with automatic, but alert shifting means good highway punch. "

Value
"TSX delivers the same solid quality and high features-per-dollar quotient as Acura's larger TL, but ups the fun-to-drive factor with a trimmer, lighter package. Automatic transmission steals some scoot, but the TSX is a Best Buy premium compact sedan in every way."

Ride
"Firm, but never jarring, even on badly cratered pavement. Body motions well-controlled."

Economy
"Test manual-transmission TSXs averaged 22.6-30.2 mpg, test automatic 26.4 mpg. Premium-grade fuel required."

Noise
"Refined for a small sports sedan, though not luxury-class hushed. Revvy, ultrasmooth 4-cyl engine audible but not unpleasant at high rpm. Tire noise intrudes some on coarse pavement, but isn't irksome. Wind rush minimal."

Comfort - Front
"Cozy feeling, but spacious enough. Firm, supportive seats bolstered to keep occupants secure in exuberant cornering. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel and power driver seat help tailor a sound basic driving stance. Good all-around visibility."

Comfort - Rear
"Head room tight for 6-footers, but surprisingly good leg and toe space even with front seats fully aft. Short seat cushion shy on leg support. Entry/exit slightly constricted by narrowish floor passages."

Controls
"Simple and smart, though available navigation system takes learning. It absorbs some climate and audio functions, which can frustrate simple adjustments, and its voice recognition understands only clearly spoken, precisely worded commands. Ingot-solid on-road feel, good detail finish, and classy cabin materials."

Cargo Room
"Not bountiful, but good for a compact, and most all the space is usable. Trunklid hinges don't intrude much and are designed so as not to crush packages. Standard split folding rear seatback has interior keylock, in-trunk releases. Cabin storage just adequate."