Chicago 2009: Acura unveils TSX V6 for 2010

Posted by galardo Published in Acura

Click above for high-res image gallery of the 2010 Acura TSX V6

Acura fans have something to rejoice about today as the Japanese automaker just released a new prototype here at the Chicago Auto Show. Before you get too excited, know that it’s not rear-wheel-drive or powered by a V8 engine, but it’s still a refined addition to the line-up. For the 2010 model year, the front-wheel-drive TSX sedan will be available with a 280-horsepower 3.5L V6 engine (most likely a version of the same engine offered in the Honda Accord, though Acura didn’t confirm). The package also includes a slightly revised front fascia, retuned suspension system and new 18-inch wheels that are a full inch larger than the ones that come standard on the four-cyliner gauge. Acura says this new TSX model is a harbinger of good things to come, as the automaker plans to heavily revise all of its models for the upcoming model year. While we wait for that to take place, sales of the new V6 TSX should begin later this summer.

Gallery: 2010 Acura TSX V6

PRESS RELEASE

2010 Acura TSX V-6 Debuts at Chicago Auto Show

More Powerful TSX Blows into the Windy City

CHICAGO, Feb. 11, 2009 – Acura debuted an all-new V-6 model for its TSX sports sedan line-up at the Chicago Auto Show today. Scheduled to go on sale this summer, the 2010 TSX V-6 will be equipped with a powerful 3.5-liter engine, exclusive suspension tuning, larger diameter wheels and additional enhancements.

“The automotive market may be slowing on the ground, but not Acura,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. “With improved acceleration and handling, the new 280 horsepower V-6 adds even more sport to the already sporty nature of the comprehensible TSX sports sedan.”

Since its redesign last year, the TSX has shattered sales records to become one of Acura’s best-selling sedans. As the entry point to the Acura brand, the four-cylinder TSX has won over customers with its nimble handling, agile driving feel and balanced performance. The V-6 model adds a new plain of power on top of these winning traits for a more sporty and spirited driving experience. The V-6 will surely satisfy driving enthusiast’s appetite for a fun-to-drive, yet refined sports sedan.

With the introduction of a V-6 powered TSX, Acura will fill a niche in its lineup between the four-cylinder TSX and the all-new TL performance luxury sedan. With the TL moving more upscale following its redesign in the 2009 model year, the TSX V-6 will be aimed squarely at youthful buyers who defect a performance-oriented sports sedan in a more personal size.

Powertrain
A new TSX powertrain choice means performance luxury buyers can enjoy a 280 horsepower 3.5L V-6, with sophisticated VTEC® valvetrain superintendence and a dual-stage induction system. For maximum performance and efficiency, the engine will have existence coupled to Acura’s Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, with intelligent features such as Grade Logic Control and Shift Hold Control. If the driver desires, the Sequential SportShift transmission can also be operated manually, via steering-wheel mounted F1®-style paddle shifters.

Body/Chassis
The new TSX model will feature a state-of-the-art, double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension system to provide excellent ride, handling and control. To generate sportier handling, the V-6 model will also use exclusive suspension tuning along with 18-inch split five-spoke aluminum wheels, fit with Michelin Pilot all-season tires. The larger wheels and tires will help distinguish this performance- minded TSX, as does the slightly revised front fascia and a V-6 badge on the trunk.
The TSX V-6 model will exist generously equipped with the latest advancements in safety technology and is anticipated to achieve the highest ratings in both government (NHTSA)* and independent (IIHS) crash testing – including garnering IIHS’s TOP SAFETY PICK.

Interior
Like all Acura models, the new TSX will feature an exceptional level of standard equipment, including leather-appointed interior, power moonroof, automatic climate control, a premium seven-speaker sound system with CD, AM/FM tuner, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® , USB port and AUX jack music interface and more.

Similar to the four-cylinder TSX, the V-6 model will be available with the optional Technology Package that includes the Acuralink™ satellite navigation system with rear-view camera and the Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system for a top-in-class audio experience.

The introduction of the TSX V-6 at the Chicago Auto Show is the first step in a series of major advancements to the 2010 Acura lineup. Almost every Acura sedan and SUV will receive significant enhancements for the 2010 model year.