Is the Acura TSX front or rear wheel drive?
The Acura TSX is front-wheel drive (FWD) in all model years; there was no factory all-wheel-drive version offered in North America or most markets.
Here's a closer look at how the drivetrain was implemented across its generations, why Honda chose FWD for this model, and what that meant for handling and efficiency.
Drivetrain Fundamentals
Across its production span, the TSX used a front-wheel-drive layout derived from Honda's Accord family. The engine is mounted transversely, and the front wheels are driven by a transaxle that integrates the transmission with the front axle. This setup emphasizes interior space efficiency and fuel economy while supporting the sporty character Acura marketed for the TSX.
Key facts about the TSX's drivetrain at a glance:
- The TSX uses front-wheel drive throughout its production; no factory all-wheel-drive option was offered in North America or most markets.
- Two transmission choices were available: a manual and an automatic; both drive the front wheels.
- It is based on Honda/Acura's front-wheel-drive architecture derived from the Accord platform, with a transverse-mounted engine feeding the front axle.
In summary, the TSX stayed as a front-drive sedan, chosen to balance efficiency, packaging, and a engaging driving feel within a practical four-door package.
Generational Snapshot
The TSX debuted in 2004 as a more premium alternative to the Accord-based lineup. It carried the same front-wheel-drive configuration across both generations (2004–2008 and 2009–2014). In North America, there was no AWD variant offered, and the model line ultimately ended in 2014, with the ILX stepping in as Acura's newer compact sedan.
Platform and engineering influences
As a derivative of the Accord, the TSX inherits Honda's long-running front-wheel-drive engineering philosophy. The front-drive layout supports generous interior space and predictable handling characteristics, while independent suspension and steering tuning were employed to give the TSX a more dynamic feel relative to typical family sedans. All-wheel drive was absent from the TSX lineup, aligning with Acura's broader strategy for this model's niche of affordable luxury and sport-oriented driving dynamics.
Summary
The Acura TSX is front-wheel drive (FWD) for every model year, with no factory AWD option. Built on the Accord platform, it prioritized practicality and efficiency while delivering a responsive driving experience. If all-wheel traction is a priority, Acura offers other models in its lineup with AWD variants.
What wheel drive is an Acura TSX?
front-wheel drive
The front-wheel drive TSX is powered by a 201-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission, or a 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine and five-speed automatic.
Is a TSX RWD?
The 2004 model year TSX's powertrain consisted of a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder K24A2 engine which produced 200 horsepower, a six-speed manual transmission (which featured a magnesium casing, to reduce weight), and a front wheel drive layout.
Is the 2004 Acura TSX FWD or AWD?
2004 Acura TSX Specifications
| POWERTRAIN | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 16-valve, DOHC, 2.4-liter, i-VTEC 4-cylinder |
| Battery | 12V, maintenance free |
| Recommended Fuel | Premium Unleaded |
| Layout | Transverse-mounted, front engine, front-wheel-drive |
What is the best year of TSX?
Best Year For Acura TSX
According to carcomplaints.com, the Acura TSX 2007, 2013, and 2014 received the least amount of complaints. Edmunds.com gave the 2007 Acura TSX a rating of 4.9 out of 5, while the 2013 and 2014 model years received a 4.8 out of 5-star ranking on Kelley Blue Book.
