Kelowna B.C. - "Retain current owners and attract new buyers," was the mantra leading the charge to redevelop Acura's luxury sports sedan. In addition to superior curb appeal, the 2009 TSX capitalizes on all that was right with the first generation of this front-wheel-drive compact, rendering it more agile and better refined.

Visual vitality
Without diminishing the TSX's distinctive character, Acura designers imbued it with flair worthy of its spirited personality. Immediately apparent is a dramatic front grille and fascia symbolizing Acura's new "Keen Edge Dynamic" design theme that will guide all Acura styling exercises.

The 2009 Acura TSX capitalizes on all that was right with the first generation.

The eyes are also drawn to sharply creased sculpting around the fenders and a new chiseled taillight arrangement. Overall, the exterior projects more attitude than the restrained lines of the previous generation. A similar approach has been applied to renewing the vehicle's cabin architecture, improving its ergonomics and visual appeal without loss of character.

The instrument panel houses a cluster of analogue gauges that are mounted higher than previously, making them easier to read at a glance. Seating is more spacious in the new cabin, which boasts larger overall dimensions. In keeping with the spirited soul of the TSX, a solid dead pedal is in place to keep the left foot athletically planted.

An enlarged cabin supplies occupants with more room to call their own. Those up front are afforded ample real estate to accommodate long limbs. Rear seat occupants are less fortunate, but given the TSX's small mid-size rating, the dimensions are not disappointing.

Improved torque distribution
Acura engineers reworked the car's 2.4-litre DOHC 4-cylinder i-VTEC powerplant to maximize torque output within the most usable rpm range. To acquire the flattened torque curve, the compression ratio was increased while valve timing was revised to take advantage of intake and exhaust flow improvements. Dual balance shafts have also been added to enhance operational refinement.

The modifications increase peak torque by 8 pound-feet to 172 @ 4,400 rpm, resulting in stronger throttle response and better acceleration from the 201 horsepower four-banger. However, it consumes premium nectar in doing so. The hearty mill is connected to either a 5-speed autobox featuring steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Fuel economy was also on the radar during the TSX makeover. It's now rated at 9.6 and 6.5 liters per 100K of city and highway driving respectively when equipped with the automatic transmission. Interestingly, results for the manual gearbox are not quite as attractive at 10.5 and 7.0 liters.

The hearty mill is connected to either a 5-speed autobox or a 6-speed manual gearbox.