Does the Acura TSX have sport mode?
The Acura TSX does offer a sport-oriented drive option on automatic models, along with a manual shift mode for more direct control. If you have the manual transmission, there isn’t a separate “Sport” button—the sportier feel comes from driver input and gear selection.
Produced from 2004 through 2014, the TSX’s sport-oriented features are tied to the transmission choice and year. Availability and labeling can vary by generation and trim, so the exact experience depends on your specific model and configuration.
Sport mode in the TSX: what it does
The TSX’s sport-oriented capability is primarily tied to its automatic transmission and, to a lesser extent, to the manual shift options. When engaged, it aims to deliver quicker throttle response and revised shift timing to provide a more spirited driving feel. In manual-mode operation, you control gear selection for a more engaged experience.
Automatic TSX: how to engage sport mode
To engage sport-oriented behavior on an automatic TSX, use the shifter as described below. Note that exact labeling can vary by year and trim.
- Shift the transmission from Drive (D) to the sport/shift gate (often labeled “S” or similar) to enable sport-oriented shifting.
- Use the manual +/- gates on the shifter to select gears yourself if you want direct control.
- Accelerate with a firmer throttle input to take advantage of delayed upshifts and higher revs typical of sport mode.
- Return to Drive (D) to resume normal, non-sport shifting behavior whenever you prefer.
In practice, sport mode on the TSX’s automatic transmission adjusts throttle mapping and shift points to yield a more responsive feel, but it is not a dramatic performance upgrade like a modern dedicated sport package. The effect can vary with engine condition, temperature, and driving load.
Generations and availability
Across the TSX’s two generations, the core idea of sport-oriented shifting remained, but the implementation evolved slightly. Below is a high-level look at what you can expect by generation.
- First generation (2004–2008): Offered a 5-speed automatic with a sequential sport-shift capability that lets you manually select gears via a shift gate, providing a sportier feel when engaged.
- Second generation (2009–2014): Continued the automatic with a refined sport-shift/manual control setup, typically keeping the same basic “S”/manual shift capability while improving throttle response and shift timing.
- Manual transmissions: Both generations were available with a manual option, which provides direct driver control without a separate automatic sport mode; the sport feel in those cars comes from the driver’s shifting and engine response rather than a dedicated mode button.
In short, sport-oriented behavior is available on automatic TSX models through a sport-shift/gear-hold approach, while manual-transmission versions rely on the driver for performance feel rather than a separate sport mode.
Tips and caveats
- The sport-mode effect is modest and mainly affects throttle response and how long the transmission holds gears, rather than adding horsepower.
- Engaging sport mode is most noticeable at higher engine loads or when accelerating from lower speeds; in city traffic, the difference is subtler.
- Always verify your exact year and trim, as labeling and behavior can differ between generations and markets.
- For those seeking a pure manual driving experience, the manual TSX offers direct control without a separate sport mode.
Ultimately, if you’re shopping for a TSX and want a sportier feel, prioritize an automatic with the sport-shift option or opt for a manual-transmission model for the most engaged driving experience. Confirming the specific features on your target year will ensure you understand how the sport-oriented behavior is implemented.
Summary
Yes — the Acura TSX provides a sport-oriented drive option on automatic models (via sport-shift control), plus manual gear control for a more engaged experience. The exact implementation varies by generation and trim, and manual-transmission versions rely on driver shifting rather than a dedicated sport mode. For buyers, checking the specific features of the year and trim is key to understanding how sport mode will feel in practice.
What does sport mode do in an Acura TSX?
Features: In Sport mode, the throttle response becomes sharper, the transmission holds gears longer for higher RPMs, and the steering may become more responsive. This mode enhances the vehicle's agility and performance but may reduce fuel efficiency.
Does a 2010 Acura TSX have sport mode?
As with the TL, the 3.5 in the TSX works exclusively with a five-speed automatic offering a sport mode as well as shift paddles for full manual control. Even better, full manual control means full manual control -- the 3.5 will bounce off its 6800-rpm rev limiter when intentionally (or unintentionally) left in a gear.
Is the Acura TSX a fast car?
The quarter-mile time of 15.6 seconds at 91 mph is quick as well, and a mere 0.2-second behind the torquier Bimmer, Lexus, Mazda, and Saab.
Which Acura has sport mode?
The Acura RDX also has a Sport Mode option. Engaging Sport Mode in the RDX sharpens throttle response and enhances steering feedback, providing a sportier driving experience.
