The 2004 model year introduced the Acura TSX,the manufacturer?s entry-level 4-door luxury sedan. Fully redesigned,the 2009 TSX is three inches wider and 2.4 inches longer than its immediate predecessor and features Honda?s new Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure,which the automaker says will reduce the impact of a collision on occupants.

Standard luxury features include leather upholstery,heated front seats,power driver?s seat,dual-zone climate control,60/40 split-folding rear seatback,sunroof,xenon headlights,Bluetooth,seven-speaker sound system with satellite radio,and USB port music interface. The optional Technology Package adds a voice-recognition navigation system with real-time traffic and weather updates,rearview camera,and a 10-speaker surround sound system. Interior space has been slightly increased over the 2008 model,and the trunk offers 12.6 cu. ft. of space. The automaker claims that the more rigid structure of the 2009 model and new sound-deadening materials will produce a quieter highway ride.

The Acura TSX features front-wheel drive and a 2.4-liter,201-horsepower four-cylinder engine that produces 170 lb.-ft. of torque. It also features electric steering,voice command control,and either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission with manual controls on steering-wheelmounted paddle shifters. EPA-estimated gas mileage is 21 mpg city,30 mpg highway,and 24 mpg combined for the automatic transmission; 21/28/24 mpg for the manual. Standard safety features include antilock brakes with brake assist,stability and traction controls,front seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags.

When introduced,the 2009 Acura TSX base MSRP was $29,160.