2004 Acura TSX Preview

2004 Acura TSX - A Better Investment than the TSX Index

The European spec Honda Accord (shown) is almost identical to Acura's new TSX. (Photo: Honda)

Have you ever lusted after an unattainable European? It seems Acura is now fulfilling Honda devotee fantasies by importing its Europe-only Accord as an Acura TSX. But before you jump to conclusions about rebadging an Accord as an Acura, consider that the Japanese automaker's continental wares are even more driver-centric than its performance-oriented North American products.

Beneath the hood lies a 200-hp 2.4-L 4-cylinder engine, capable of 166 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. It's a traditional high-revving Acura power unit, reaching maximum horsepower at a peaky 6,800 rpm. Still its i-VTEC 'intelligent' valve-control system broadens the power band while improving fuel economy by adjusting valve timing and lift. The sophisticated engine joins a 6-speed manual transmission or optionally, a quick shifting 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic. Its drive-by-wire throttle control system has been designed to produce more immediate response and smoother acceleration.