Newly suspended
The goal in re-engineering the chassis and suspension system was to improve ride quality along with its eternal nemesis, handling ability. The strategy to achieve this lofty ideal was built around raising the roll center of the new TSX (the geometric axis on which the body rolls or leans during cornering). The outcome reduces roll and equalizes the workload of all four tires, keeping the vehicle better planted and more stable during enthusiastic cornering.

Dual-mode shock dampers have also been introduced, the first for any Acura product. Unlike conventional dampers, which are tuned to find compromise between slow speed comfort and high-speed performance, the dual dampers are designed to match damping needs to the vehicle speed.

The exterior projects more "attitude" than the restrained lines of its predecessor.

On the road
All the modifications in the world are of little meaning if they don't reward the senses once the car is in motion. The TSX rewards handsomely. Simply sitting in its driver's seat and absorbing the surrounding cockpit is sufficient to recognize that this is a "driver's" car.

After the obligatory mirror and seat adjustments, I found the driving position ideal for my 5'-11" frame. All controls and switches fell predictably to hand. The front perch holds the human form snuggly, and after a full day behind the wheel I felt no ill will or discomfort from the heated, leather-clad roost.

Pulling away from the curb was sufficient to garner a head nod to the improved operational refinement of the new TSX. Although the previous generation could be accurately described as a highly refined sedan, the new generation better suits the accolade.

The first portion of my day was lived-out behind the wheel of an automatic TSX. I wondered whether the autobox would rob the small engine of its vigor. A drive through town and onto the open highway proved that not to be the case. The engine is at ease in all but the most demanding scenarios such as passing big rigs on the open road, which the TSX does with commendable results that include an inspiring sprint to the engine's generous 7,000-rpm redline.

Along a desolate back road, I put the TSX through what seemed to be a never-ending series of twists and turns of all description. The paddle shifters performed flawlessly, quickly inserting the chosen gear in preparation for the next transition. A 6-speed manual box concluded the afternoon drive. This short-throw mixer gratifies with every gear change, moving with clarity and pleasing definition.

A point worthy of emphasis is the compliant ride quality of the new TSX.