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Acura Launches 2009 TSX Sedan
24 Mar 08
Honda's luxury division, Acura, unveiled its new 2009 TSX sedan at the 2008 New York Auto Show last week. The model, essentially a rebadged and highly-optioned European-spec Honda Accord sedan, is larger than the one it replaces with a longer, lower stance. The only engine currently available will be a 2.4-litre four-cylinder motor making 201 hp, less than the outgoing 205 hp figure for the 2008 model, but featuring more torque at 172 lbs./ft. A six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission are the two choices available, with a technology package being the only significant option, including a navigation system which features XM satellite radio. A diesel engine is expected to be introduced for the model in 2009, representing Honda's first diesel application for North America.
Significance: The new model (like its bigger RL cousin which was introduced at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show in February) does not depart greatly from the model it replaces. The new one should sell on its price (starting at roughly US$29,000), which undercuts the competition (Audi A4, BMW 3-series, Lincoln MKZ) significantly. Acura division needs the help, with sales down 9.1% through February 2008, and none of the brand's passenger cars posting positive numbers. Nevertheless, the new corporate direction for the styling of the Acura brand is leaving many cold; the general consensus at the vehicle's unveiling was that it was not significantly different enough to establish itself in a crowded entry-level luxury field, a criticism which Acura has suffered from repeatedly.
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