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What type of motor is in the TSX?

The Acura TSX is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 gasoline engine from Honda’s K-series family, featuring the i-VTEC variable-valve timing system. Across its two generations, the TSX used two related K-series tuned motors, providing smooth performance and reliable everyday driving.


Two generations, two K-series engines


To understand what powers the TSX, it helps to map the generations and their engine codes.



  • First generation (2004–2008): 2.4-liter i-VTEC inline-4 in the K24A-series (commonly referenced as K24A2), configured for front-wheel drive.

  • Second generation (2009–2014): 2.4-liter i-VTEC inline-4 in the K24Z-series (commonly K24Z3), tuned for higher output while retaining the same basic architecture.


The engine family is known for its smooth operation, broad low- to mid-range torque, and the efficiency benefits of Honda’s i-VTEC system.


Performance and specs


Here are the typical output ranges by generation:



  • First generation: about 200 horsepower and roughly 160–164 lb-ft of torque.

  • Second generation: about 201 horsepower and about 172 lb-ft of torque.


Both generations employ Honda’s i-VTEC technology to optimize valve timing across the rev range, and both are part of the broader K-series family noted for reliability and strong mid-range response.


Additional notes about the motor


The TSX engine is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline and is typically paired with either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, depending on trim and model year. While the core architecture remains the same, refinements across generations improve efficiency and responsiveness.


Summary: The TSX uses a 2.4-liter inline-4 i-VTEC engine from Honda’s K-series family. The early models used the K24A2 variant, while later models used the K24Z3 variant, delivering roughly 200–201 hp and about 160–172 lb-ft of torque.


In brief, the TSX’s motor is a gasoline, inline-4, i-VTEC-equipped engine from Honda’s K-series—reliable, well-regarded, and tuned differently across its two production eras to balance efficiency with spirited performance.

Which Acura TSX has K24?


The 2004-2014 Acura TSX model years all use a version of the K24 engine, specifically the K24A2 in the first generation (2004-2008) and a variant of the K24 in the second generation (2009-2014). The second generation TSX's K24 engine produced 201 horsepower in 2012, with a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC engine.
 

  • First Generation (2004-2008): The K24A2 engine was used, producing 200 horsepower. 
  • Second Generation (2009-2014): The second generation continued to use a K24 engine, with some later model years featuring a 2.4-liter i-VTEC variant producing 201 horsepower. 



Which engine does the TSX have?


The engine is a 2.4-liter in-line 4-cylinder engine reaching 201 hp (150 kW) and 172 lb⋅ft (233 N⋅m) torque.



What motor is in the 2010 Acura TSX?


The 2010 Acura TSX was available with two engines: a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC engine and an optional 3.5-liter, 6-cylinder SOHC V6 engine. The 2.4L produces 201 horsepower, while the 3.5L V6 produces 280 horsepower. The 4-cylinder could be paired with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 was only available with the 5-speed automatic. 
2.4-liter inline-4 

  • Engine type: 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC inline-4
  • Horsepower: 201 hp @ 7,000 rpm
  • Torque: 172 lb-ft @ 4,300 rpm (6-speed manual) or 170 lb-ft @ 4,300 rpm (5-speed automatic)
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
  • Fuel economy (EPA estimated): 20/28/23 mpg (city/highway/combined) for the manual and 21/30/24 mpg for the automatic 

3.5-liter V6 
  • Engine type: 3.5-liter SOHC V6
  • Horsepower: 280 hp @ 6,200 rpm
  • Torque: 254 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
  • Transmission: 5-speed automatic only
  • Fuel economy (EPA estimated): 18/27/21 mpg (city/highway/combined)
  • Notes: This engine was an optional upgrade and featured cold air induction and a dual-stage induction system. 



Which K24 is in the TSX?


The following is a list of all the cars that have come equipped with a K24 engine in the United States: K24A1: 2002-2009 Honda CR-V. K24A2: 2004-2008 Acura TSX.


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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.