2008 Acura CSX Type-S Road Test (video)
1-24-2008
by
Amyot Bachand
, Auto123.com
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The instrument layout was quite a pleasant surprise. I especially liked the location of the speedometer, just below the windshield. As a result, you can keep an eye on the road and watch your speed at the same time. The digital display also makes it easier to read. The tachometer is found in the lower tier of the instrument panel, slightly hidden by the steering wheel. Fortunately, the red indicator light next to the speedometer (as well as the sound of the engine) will tell you how high the car is revving.  | | A few complex controls come in the way of an otherwise pleasant driving experience. |
A number of controls prove hard to adjust -- the navigation system, for one. I simply could not get used to it, which is strange since the Honda Accord's and Odyssey's are pleasant to work with. Why complicate things when you're an expert at making them so simple is beyond me.Time to have fun!The steering is very precise but does not offer much feedback from the road. The i-VTEC of our tester was mated to a 6-speed manual transmission (oddly enough, the website of Acura Canada mentions a 5-speed manual). This gearbox handles like a charm. The well-positioned shifter offers ultra-short throws, which makes it extremely fun to manipulate. Only the sixth gear is hard to engage, although you quickly get used to it. The engine and transmission are excellent teammates and their operation results in a refined yet sporty driving experience. Honda enthusiasts will love the exhaust note coming from the i-VTEC at 6,300 rpm: it starts with a sweet rumble and culminates in a shrill scream. Clearly, the CSX Type-S wants you to hear all its power. Acceleration times are pretty good, too: 0-100 kph in 7.8 seconds and 80-120 kph in 5.15 seconds. Since our tester was equipped with winter tires, braking distances from 100 to 0 kph were longer than usual at 53 meters. With summer tires, however, expect a 10-meter improvement. The high-performance engine offered an average fuel economy of 11.7 L/100 km during our test week (premium gasoline, of course). During snowstorms, this Acura's traction and stability control system steps into play far too quickly for sporty drivers. I had to turn it off to avoid wearing out the brake pads unnecessarily. The rest of the time, I left it activated. | | The aero kit adds to the sedan's sporty look, much to the delight of CSX customers. |
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