2010 Acura TSX

Interior

Step over the polished alloy doorsill plates to enter the TSX interior and the purposeful nature of this sports sedan is immediately apparent. Blending luxury, performance and technology in equal measure, the TSX’s interior exhibits a high level of fit and finish that customers have come to expect from Acura.

The driver’s cockpit is engineered for comfort and precise control, with many key controls positioned within fingertip reach on the thick, leather-wrapped steering wheel. With the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission, racing-inspired shift paddles positioned on the steering wheel make for convenient gear changes. Redesigned front bucket seats offer enhanced lateral support, and the driver’s seat is 8-way power adjustable. The roomy 5-passenger interior offers standard leather seating, as well as standard dual-zone automatic climate control. Convenient fold-down rear seatbacks reveal a large pass-through to the trunk to expand cargo-carrying versatility.

Typical of Acura, the TSX offers an exceptional level of standard equipment. Included are a standard power-actuated driver and front passenger seat, a folding key with remote entry, automatic headlight activation, premium 7-speaker sound system with CD, AM/FM tuner, XM® satellite radio, AUX and USB music port connectivity and a Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® cellular phone interface. A HomeLink® remote control system is also standard. The available Technology Package adds a dazzling 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound Audio System with Note feature for XM® Radio, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ with rearview camera and AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System.

STYLING

The TSX’s sport-oriented interior is designed to evoke a premium, avant-garde appearance with a blend of high-quality materials and graceful accents. Interior shapes are sweeping and fluid, and vehicle entry is over metal sill plates bearing the Acura logo. Satin metal finish accents arc across the instrument panel and along the sides of the center console. Both front and rear doors have sweeping armrests that are integrated with the door pulls, handles and lock knobs for a more integrated and finished look.

Large analog gauges are easily legible, and the small-diameter steering wheel has a thick, leather-wrapped rim for a sporting feel. Satellite controls for key systems are positioned on the steering wheel within fingertip reach, including racing-inspired steering wheel mounted paddle shifters for the 5-speed automatic transmission. A large digital display within the tachometer face shows gear selection when the transmission is in manual mode. The interior comes in three premium colors: Ebony, Parchment and Taupe.

DRIVER-ORIENTED COCKPIT

The TSX is designed to provide the driver with a functional and refined cockpit that puts controls within easy reach. The key controls – the steering wheel, pedals, and console shifter – are positioned for comfort and control.

Sport-oriented seating offers added lateral support for hard cornering. The 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat is positioned low for improved headroom and a lower center of gravity. The seat includes a 2-position memory feature. The steering column tilts and telescopes to accommodate drivers of varying sizes.

Instrumentation and controls are clearly legible and switchgear offers precise tactile feedback. Automatic and manual transmissions are offered with the TSX, and both are designed for ease of operation. The 6-speed manual transmission has short throws like those of a sportscar. The Sequential SportShift 5-Speed automatic transmission has a simplified straight-style shift gate located on the center console along with racing-inspired paddle shifters that are within fingertip reach on the steering wheel.

Controls for the power moonroof with tilt and auto-open/close are located overhead in an intuitive location. The trunk can be electrically opened via a button positioned within easy reach in the driver’s door panel. The fuel filler door is locked electrically anytime the doors are locked, eliminating the need for a cable-style fuel door release button. When the power door locks are unlocked, the fuel filler door can be easily opened.

LEATHER-WRAPPED STEERING WHEEL

In keeping with its sporting mission, the TSX has a thick leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel that integrates many control functions. Audio controls are positioned on the left spoke while cruise-control switches are on the right spoke. On cars equipped with the Technology Package, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ controls are located on the bottom spoke of the steering wheel. When equipped with the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission, a pair of shift paddles are positioned on the rear of the steering wheel.

LED INSTRUMENTATION WITH MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY

The TSX’s analog instrumentation has satin metal-finish bezels and a clean, uncluttered look that makes it easy for the driver to interpret readings. LED backlighting makes the large gauges clear – day or night. The illuminated pointers on the tachometer and speedometer are "floating," and appear to sweep around an invisible center pivot. When equipped with the Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission, the tachometer face includes a digital gear selection indicator. The V-6 model receives an updated tachometer face with a unique rpm redline range that corresponds to the operating parameters of the new 3.5L V-6 engine.

A Multi Information Display (MID) positioned in the speedometer face displays outside temperature, vehicle mileage and trip mileage, instant as well as average fuel economy readouts and TPMS tire pressure status. Maintenance Minder™ also alerts the driver of upcoming maintenance needs via the MID.

To give the TSX a welcoming feel, when the door is first opened, the instrument lighting comes on at a low brightness; when the key is put in the ignition, the brightness progressively increases to 100-percent illumination. Then when the ignition is turned on, the illuminated instruments come to life, indicating that all systems are up and running. At the end of the drive, the illumination process reverses.

SEATING

During spirited acceleration, cornering and braking, secure seating for the driver and passengers is an elemental part of overall comfort. With high lateral loadings the driver’s seat becomes an important part of the control system, helping the driver read the dynamic information the chassis and powertrain convey. The TSX driver’s seat is designed to deliver a sense of connection and control, and is scaled to fit a wide range of body shapes. Specific attention was given to increasing shoulder-area support for enhanced comfort while cornering.

With 8-way power adjustability, the TSX driver’s seat provides an accommodating fit and two different seat position profiles can be stored in memory. Each seat profile is linked to one of the pair of new folding ignition keys with integral remote-entry transmitter. When the driver uses the remote entry feature of the key, the TSX automatically adjusts the driver’s seat to the preset position as well as links the driver’s side mirror and radio presets. Switches located on the driver’s door panel can also select the individual memory profiles.

The driver’s seat backrest lumbar mechanism is adjustable via a lever mounted on the right side of the seat back. The mechanism is designed to offer smoothly contoured support without the "sharp edged" feel of some less sophisticated mechanisms. TSX is equipped with a 4-way power adjustable front bucket seat for passenger comfort. To eliminate the chill on cold days, the TSX features heated front seats.

INTERIOR ROOM

The TSX’s wide wheel track and overall body width translate into a spacious interior cabin. The TSX’s efficient packaging offers comfortable long-haul space for four passengers, and can accommodate up to five passengers for shorter drives. Rear seat room is particularly impressive relative to this class, with adequate leg and headroom for passengers over six feet tall.

CARGO CARRYING VERSATILITY

When more space is needed, the lockable 60/40 split-folding rear seatback can be lowered by pulling release handles that are easily accessible from inside the trunk. This opens a large cargo pass-through to the back seat area. The reconfigured pass-through is now eight inches wider at its bottom, simplifying loading. Trunk cargo volume is 12.6 cubic feet with a total vehicle cargo volume of 107.1 cubic ft.

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE ITEMS

The TSX interior is designed to help make passengers comfortable with plenty of customer-relevant features. Front and rear cupholders accommodate large drinks, convenient storage bins and compartments include seatback map pockets and bottle holders in all four doors, and the front door panels also have large map pockets. A 2-section locking glove compartment has a damped door, and there is also overhead sunglasses storage, while the center console incorporates side utility pockets. Beneath the sliding, padded armrest, the center console storage compartment has an internal 12-volt power point, a 2.5 mm auxiliary input mini-jack for the audio system, and a USB jack for the easy connection of a compatible audio device (such as an iPod®) to the TSX’s sound system.

A versatile Multi-Information Display located in the speedometer face tracks the car’s maintenance needs, shows warnings and offers an array of driver preference settings. The TSX also features a dash mounted electronic compass for added directional information while driving. Illuminated door-mounted window switches are easy to locate at night. A HomeLink® remote system allows the control of up to three home electronic devices remotely from inside the car.

DUAL-ZONE AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM

The TSX has standard dual-zone automatic climate control with clear, intuitive controls. A replaceable filter system helps remove particulates from the interior air. When equipped with the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, key HVAC system functions can be accomplished via voice commands. In addition, the navigation system calculates sun position to adjust system operation from side to side to help compensate for solar heating.

INTERIOR COLOR & TRIM COMBINATIONS

Three interior colors are available, including Ebony (black), Taupe (gray) and Parchment (ivory). The upper instrument panel in all versions is black, while the lower instrument panel color matches the interior color.

REMOTE ENTRY

Two folding ignition keys with integrated remote transmitters are provided with the TSX. Each transmitter can be linked to one of two driver seat-position profiles. The key fob that is used to unlock the vehicle triggers a specific driver profile and the system automatically positions the power driver’s seat, adjusts the side mirrors and sets the radio presets to match that profile.

Using the key fob, one push of the unlock button unlocks the driver’s door while a second push unlocks all the doors. When placed in the driver’s door lock, one twist unlocks only the driver’s door while a second twist unlocks all the doors.

The TSX also features a unique "quick vent" feature that (when holding the unlock button on the keyless remote for two seconds) instantly lowers all four door windows and opens the power moonroof to quickly vent the built-up interior heat. In addition, by holding the key in the "lock" position, all open windows can be simultaneously raised.

BLUETOOTH® HANDSFREELINK® WIRELESS TELEPHONE INTERFACE

The TSX includes standard Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® cellular telephone and music interface that is designed to work with many Bluetooth® enabled mobile telephones (sold separately). Bluetooth® is a radio frequency-based technology that allows portable devices such as mobile telephones, PDAs, laptops and other devices to communicate wirelessly. Acura’s Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system is compatible with Bluetooth® enabled cellular phones that have the Hands Free Profile (HFP). Some early Bluetooth® enabled phones do not have this communications protocol, but most newly released cellular telephones should have the HFP. After a simple one-time pairing process, the TSX can communicate wirelessly and securely with the driver’s cell phone when it is within approximately 30 feet (10 meters) of the vehicle. The phone must be turned on, but can be stowed in a pocket, briefcase, purse, or anywhere inside the TSX cabin.

Using the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system, the driver can send or answer telephone calls without needing to remove hands from the steering wheel. Incoming telephone numbers are displayed on the Multi-Information Display, and a ring tone is heard over the TSX’s audio system. A press of the steering wheel-mounted "Pick up" button mutes the audio system and the incoming caller is heard over the audio system speakers. An overhead microphone picks up the driver’s voice. "Echo effect" and background noise are reduced by special algorithms built into the navigation system to improve the transmission quality of the driver’s speech.

To send a telephone call hands-free, fingertip controls mounted on the steering wheel activate the system and the driver can dial the telephone number by voice. The driver also can store frequently called numbers in the system’s memory by using voice tags. Up to six different compatible mobile phones can be paired with the TSX’s Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system at one time.

PREMIUM 7-SPEAKER SOUND SYSTEM WITH CD AND AM/FM/XM® TUNER

The TSX’s Premium audio system delivers a high performance listening experience. Engineered for simple, intuitive operation, the system incorporates an AM/FM tuner, XM® satellite radio and a single-disc CD player. The system displays Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) information, which appears as text showing station name and program type.

Multiple audio sources

The audio system can play program material from a wide variety of sources. The single-disc CD player can read discs encoded with MP3 or WMA® files, and there is a 2.5 mm auxiliary mini-jack in the center console for use with an external MP3 player. A USB port and cable is provided in the center console for the easy connection of an iPod® or compatible MP3 player. When used with compatible iPod® models, the USB connection provides charging power and allows the display of iPod® content information on the audio system head unit. Control of the iPod® is via the audio head unit for maximum convenience.

Standard equipment is XM® Satellite Radio, offering over 170 digital channels of news, sports, talk and entertainment. A 90-day complimentary subscription to XM® is included.

The audio system also offers Bluetooth® Audio, a new technology for Acura. When the system has been paired with a compatible cellular telephone that incorporates a built-in audio player, the phone’s audio content can be played on the TSX audio system via a wireless Bluetooth® connection. With the phone turned on and its music player running, the TSX audio system allows control of volume, forward and back track skipping along with pause/resume via the vehicle’s audio head unit (function not legal in all states).

360 watts of power

The 360-watt sound system has a total of seven speakers. A pair of tweeters are positioned in the top of the instrument panel, and two 6.3-inch drivers are positioned in the front doors. The rear deck has another pair of 6.3-inch drivers, along with an 8-inch subwoofer. An in-glass antenna located in the rear window is optimized to help deliver enhanced radio reception. Remote audio controls on the 3-spoke steering wheel put frequently used functions within fingertip reach of the driver.

ACURA/ELS SURROUND® PREMIUM AUDIO SYSTEM WITH 10-SPEAKERS, DVD-AUDIO, DTS™, CD 6-DISC CHANGER, AND AM/FM/XM® TUNER

When equipped with the available Technology Package, the TSX includes an Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio System featuring 10-speakers and DVD-Audio. The system gets its name from multi-Grammy® Award winning producer/engineer Elliot Scheiner’s recording industry-recognized moniker "ELS®." Scheiner’s goal in the development of this audio system was to capture and reproduce music the way it is heard in the recording studio. The sophisticated ELS® system, developed together with Panasonic Automotive Systems, is designed to provide recording studio sound to the interior of the TSX. The system uses 10 speakers and a total of 415 watts of power to create a unique listening experience in the TSX.

Like the 7-speaker Premium audio system, the Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio system can play program material from an extremely wide range of sources. The 6-disc CD changer can read discs encoded with MP3 or WMA® files. There’s a 2.5 mm auxiliary mini-jack for use with an external MP3 player, and a USB jack and cable is located in the center console for the connection of an iPod® or compatible MP3 player. When used with compatible iPod® models, this connection provides iPod® control via the audio head unit. Bluetooth® Audio allows a compatible cellular telephone that incorporates a built-in audio player to wirelessly play the phone’s audio content on the TSX audio system (function not legal in all states).

The audio system features selectable Dolby Pro Logic II signal processing that creates simulated 5.1-channel surround sound from CD, MP3/WMA®, XM®, AUX and USB input. The TSX audio system plays conventional CDs and DTS discs, in addition to DVD-Audio discs. While Elliot Scheiner and Panasonic Automotive tuned the Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio system to create outstanding sound from any source, DVD-Audio is the system’s most impressive sounding format. This advanced audio reproduction technology delivers over 500-times higher resolution than traditional CD audio. DVD-Audio delivers smoother, fuller and far more accurate sound through six discrete channels. (The system will not play DVD movies, DVD-V or DVD-R/RWs.)

To make this capable system simple to operate, it has large-format controls and steering wheel-mounted controls of key functions are positioned within fingertip reach. Select audio system functions can also be executed via voice commands.

10-speaker array
Each of the 10 speakers in the Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio system uses a high-energy Neodymium magnet for excellent sound quality and to reduce weight. There are soft-dome tweeters in the mirror patch location, plus a 2.75-inch midrange polypropylene-cone center speaker in the middle of the dashboard top. Each of the doors has 6.7-inch full-range dual-thickness polypropylene-cone speakers, and in the rear parcel shelf there are two more 6.7-inch drivers flanking a special Super Low Distortion 8-inch diameter subwoofer. The combination of outstanding speaker drivers, 415 watts of power and optimal speaker locations creates an audio system that delivers luxurious sound to any seating position.

An AM/FM tuner gets signals from a powered, active glass antenna laminated into the rear window glass. The system displays Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) information, which can show station name and program type. XM® Radio is integrated into the audio receiver to provide more than 170 channels of digital program material with near-CD quality sound. When XM® is used, a display shows the current station, song title, or artist’s name. A complimentary 3-month subscription to XM® Radio service is included with purchase of a new TSX, and customers are able to continue or cancel the service any time after. There are numerous XM® Radio service packages available.

A new Note feature for XM® Radio is built into the audio system. The feature is designed to be a convenience for TSX owners that want to make note of a song heard on XM®. At the touch of a button or via a voice command, the Note feature records the current song title and artist name in text form, along with a short audio excerpt of the song. The system captures up to 10 seconds of each selected song, and can record a total of 30 song excerpts for later playback.

ACTIVE SOUND CONTROL (V-6 Exclusive)

The 2010 TSX V-6 receives a new Active Sound Control system that is much advanced over Acura’s previous Active Noise Cancellation™ (ANC) system. Whereas ANC dealt specifically with the elimination of low sound pressure entering the cabin, the new Active Sound Control system has a much broader range including the elimination of unwanted high frequency noise. In addition, Active Sound Control is linked to throttle position and engine rpm to provide a more quiet cockpit during normal cruising while allowing the 3.5L’s muscular sound to be heard more during higher rpm, higher speed driving.

Sporting a new array of processing technology and sensors, the Active Sound Control system not only dramatically improves sound cancellation but also works throughout the entire engine rpm range whereas the previous ANC system only worked to cancel engine booming noise up to 2,000 rpm. Moreover, Active Sound Control is specially tuned for various levels of "effect" generated at different throttle positions: during low rpm, Active Sound Control delivers a quiet cabin; during mid-rpm throttle, some of the throaty exhaust note is allowed to enter the cabin; and during high rpm the Active Sound Control system is tuned to allow a more crisp exhaust note to enter the cabin.

The Active Sound Control system operates whenever the car is running, regardless of whether the audio system is on or off. There are two microphones mounted in the headliner- one just behind the front overhead console and another just ahead of the overhead rear light module. The microphones capture low frequencies entering the cabin, and send a signal to the Active Sound Control unit. The Active Sound Control unit then creates a precisely timed reverse phase audio signal that is sent to an amplifier, which powers the door speakers.

The Active Sound Control dramatically reduces the booming noise of the exhaust, front and rear. In the frequency range below 100 hertz, Active Sound Control results in an impressive 10 dB reduction in noise level. Moreover, the new Active Sound Control system dramatically reduces high frequency and middle-frequency noise attenuation during normal cruising. In addition, road noise attenuation is also improved over both smooth and rough roads.

ACURA NAVIGATION SYSTEM WITH VOICE RECOGNITION™ AND REAR-VIEW CAMERA, ACURALINK® REAL-TIME TRAFFIC AND ACURALINK® WEATHER

The TSX with Technology Package features the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ with an 8-inch screen. For 2010, the navigation system gets an easier-to-read outer screen that further thwarts glare. Designed for easy, intuitive operation, the TSX’s navigation system has a wide range of capabilities. A rearview camera helps provide added situational awareness for the driver when the vehicle is in reverse. The navigation system features AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ along with AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™.

System operation

The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ locates the vehicle’s position based on data from up to 12 orbiting Global Positioning Satellites (GPS). In situations when the GPS antenna is blocked by tall buildings, a parking garage or tunnel, an internal gyroscopic system and a speed sensor help keep the mapping information current and reliable until satellite reception is restored. The system’s ECU features a mapping information database that’s stored on a replaceable DVD. Updated DVD data discs are available (for a fee) on an annual basis at www.acura.com or by calling 888-549-3798.

There are two ways to control the navigation system: by voice command or via an Interface Dial. With a press of the "Talk" button on the steering wheel, voice command is enabled. The system responds to 100,000 words, as well as to 1.7 million spoken city and street names.

Audio sound is automatically muted when the "Talk" button is pressed, and an overhead microphone array receives spoken commands from the driver. The pair of microphones in the ceiling console work with sophisticated electronics to "home in" on the driver’s voice while ignoring extraneous sounds. The improved clarity of this microphone system is a key factor behind the spectacular improvement in the word recognition of this new-generation navigation system.

The system responds to commands in normal English, such as "Display gas stations," "Find nearest hospital" or "Find nearest Chinese restaurant." You can also choose to display points of interest on the map with voice command, or tell the system to provide turn-by-turn navigation. The system’s massive point-of-interest database includes phone numbers, which can be dialed with the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® system when linked to a compatible Bluetooth® cellular telephone. The system also features Zagat Survey™ information and reviews for thousands of restaurants.

The TSX has a convenient Interface Dial that provides an alternate way to control the navigation system. The dial allows characters and items to be selected from the on-screen display, functioning much like a computer pointing device. The Interface Dial allows you to choose menu options or spell out words (an address, business name or place).

AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System

The TSX navigation system includes the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System. AcuraLink® provides 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, giving clients the latest information specific to their vehicle. The owner’s Bluetooth® compatible cellular telephone is used in cases where communication to and from the Acura Telematics server is needed (once the owner has paired a phone with the vehicle, enabled its data-transmission function and agreed to the data charges from their cellular phone service).

AcuraLink® messages are displayed as text on the navigation screen, and can be heard over the audio system as Text-to-Speech. High priority messages are displayed immediately upon receipt. Less time-critical messages trigger an icon on the navigation screen. Some low priority messages show up only upon vehicle start-up to avoid distractions. The TSX owner can choose to read a message immediately, or archive it to be read later.

Messages that may be sent to the TSX via AcuraLink® include Maintenance Minder™ (information regarding the next required maintenance), Quick Tips (information to help maximize the benefit and enjoyment of TSX features), Feature Guide (supplements to the Owner’s Manual), Diagnostic Info (information and instruction should an onboard system issue arise), information regarding required service or repair, and service appointment reminders. The TSX owner has control over the types of messages received, and all AcuraLink® preferences can be set via the Owner Link® website.

With 2-way data communication between the TSX and the Acura Telematics Server, AcuraLink® can offer important information that previously has been unavailable. If a vehicle fault develops and an instrument panel warning indicator illuminates, AcuraLink® will automatically send a trouble code to the Acura Telematics Server (if a linked telephone is in range and the user has authorized data transmission). The Telematics Server interprets the code and then sends a message back to the vehicle. As a result, the owner knows if a particular problem can be dealt with later or if it requires special driving techniques. The data connection is enabled even if the monthly XM® Radio service package is not activated.

AcuraLink® Real-time traffic and AcuraLink® weather information

AcuraLink® Real-time traffic
The TSX navigation screen can display continuously updating traffic information including flow (with traffic speed where available), collisions, unique incidents, and construction on freeways in 77 major metropolitan areas within the continental United States. NAVTEQ™ gathers information from multiple sources including police and highway patrol accident reports and transportation departments. This traffic information is then transmitted by XM® Radio satellites to the TSX where it is graphically displayed on the navigation system.

Map icons can be selected to see incident details. Traffic information is continuously updated, allowing drivers to avoid freeway congestion en route and to choose the optimum route for their destination. AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ provides an updated flow of relevant information reflecting conditions along a driver’s chosen route, unlike radio or television traffic reports that typically contain less detailed information.

The TSX’s satellite-based Navigation system features Traffic Rerouting™ functionality, utilizing updated data from AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ information. When traffic congestion or road incidents are detected along the selected drive route, Traffic Rerouting™ can automatically recalculate a "detour" route and display a pop-up box signifying the route change. The TSX driver can also recalculate a route in manual mode simply by selecting "TRAFFIC INCIDENTS" from the Map Info menu followed by selecting the "AVOID" command relevant to an incident. Either method can save time and frustration, thus keeping the Acura driver ahead of the curve. (Note: Traffic Rerouting™ requires a monthly subscription to the XM® NavTraffic service).

Following the 3-month free trial period, Real-Time Traffic™ data services are offered on a subscription basis for a nominal fee. In addition to the on-screen traffic information, TSX owners who maintain their Sirius XM® Radio service also receive 77 city-specific audio traffic information that runs on a 2-3 minute loop in selected metropolitan areas.

AcuraLink® weather
Acura was the first automotive company to offer continually updated "real time" traffic information as standard equipment. Acura leads the field by offering an in-dash, in-map navigation system with continually updated weather information integrated within a single-screen format.

AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ is the first personal weather tracking system for in-dash automotive GPS navigation systems. The system tracks area-specific, continuously updated weather conditions between the current location and the final destination. Plus, it provides near-term weather forecasts. Rather than just offering general weather conditions for a region, the system focuses on the specific weather on the driving route. AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ information is continuously updated and delivered to the vehicle navigation system via the TSX’s built-in XM® tuner.

With data provided by Baron Services, Inc., professional-grade weather information (obtained and deciphered from a complex array of National Weather Service information) is now exclusively available to Acura owners. Owners of a new TSX will receive a complementary 3-month trial subscription that delivers AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ along with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ and XM® Radio. Afterwards, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ is individually available by monthly subscription or packaged with AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™ or XM® Radio, or as a combined package of all three features.

Based on XM’s WX Weather feature that is the recognized weather information leader in the aviation and marine markets, the AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ technology is further enhanced for specific travel conditions within most major metropolitan areas across the 48 contiguous United States. The information focuses on identifying potential weather threats along with current and future forecast weather conditions.

Current weather conditions are displayed on the navigation screen in an easy-to-read format. To find nearby weather conditions, the TSX’s navigation system cursor can be moved to the desired location on the map to obtain info for a specific location. After pressing the "Map" button, the display reverts to the vehicle’s current location.

In addition to providing continually updated weather information, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ also generates prompts with unique icons informing the TSX driver if the vehicle is headed into oncoming severe weather such as a developing snowstorm, ice or even a tornado warning. With such advance information the TSX driver can choose to reroute a trip to avoid the severe weather before actually encountering it.

When the navigation map display is zoomed out all the way to reveal the entire United States, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ shows weather patterns across different areas of the country. AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ also offers 1- and 3-day weather forecasts for specific areas of the United States.

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Chassis

In keeping with its lean, athletic appearance, the 2010 TSX offers a flat ride that is free from excessive pitching motions, along with outstanding agility and steering precision. Several chassis development such as a highly rigid body design with a cross-braced roof structure and a safety cage-type rear bulkhead structure all help contribute to the TSX’s dynamic performance.

SUSPENSION

The TSX suspension’s high roll center (the geometric axis on which the body rolls or leans while cornering) reduces body lean during cornering, which better equalizes the workload for all four tires while also improving passenger comfort.

Front suspension
Double-wishbone front suspension components include stamped-steel upper A-arms, cast-iron steering knuckles, cast-iron lower A-arms, coil-over dampers and a large front stabilizer bar. A steel subframe cradles the engine, transmission and lower suspension components, and mounts on rubber bushings tuned to reduce road and engine noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) without compromising handling agility or steering precision.

For the 2010 TSX with the new V-6 engine, the front suspension has been upgraded with unique front springs and revised dampers. The revised suspension accounts for the increased weight of the 3.5L V-6 engine and generates a level of sporty handling that buyers will expect from the powerful V-6 TSX model.

Rear suspension
The multi-link rear suspension includes stamped-steel upper A-arms, cast aluminum knuckles, double lower tubular lateral links, tubular steel toe-control links, coil-over dampers and a large stabilizer bar. This system provides outstanding agility and handling, together with a flatter ride and excellent control of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH).

DUAL-MODE DAMPERS

The 2010 TSX features dual-mode dampers. While most conventional dampers are tuned to provide a compromise between ride comfort and sporty handling at different speeds, the TSX’s dual-mode dampers are engineered to provide ideal damping rates at both low and high speeds.

With a typical suspension, damping forces rise with the speed of damper compression, such as occurs when the vehicle encounters road irregularities at high speed. This can cause significant ride harshness and noise that reduces passenger comfort and enjoyment. However, the TSX’s dual-mode dampers are tuned to provide the ideal damping rates for comfort and smoothness at low speeds of damper compression, while also limiting the maximum damping forces to reduce ride harshness at higher speeds of damper compression. In this way, the TSX provides a wider range of comfortable ride quality and exceptional road holding under a wide variety of driving speeds and conditions.

Deflector plate technology
Acura’s dual-mode dampers automatically adjust compression damping characteristics to suit the vehicle speed, cornering forces and road surface. The dampers use a unique "deflector plate stack" that deflects when the compression forces reach a certain level, such as when encountering a large bump or dip in the pavement at high speeds. When these severe forces act on an ordinary damper, oil cannot move quickly enough through the damping orifices and the effective damping rate climbs, resulting in an excessive shock transmitted into the vehicle body.

With the TSX’s dual-mode dampers, when severe conditions are encountered, the plate stack deflects, allowing oil to pass through at a much higher rate and in essence "capping" the damping rate at a preset level. Allowing an increased flow rate in extreme situations noticeably reduces the shock transmitted into the vehicle body while enhancing handling stability and road holding.

Deflection of the plate stack is carefully calibrated and controlled by spring pressure force on the plate stack. The simplicity of the dual-mode damper system also means that no electronics or movable valves are required.

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING (EPS)

The TSX uses Electric Power Steering (EPS) which regulates steering via a computer-actuated electric motor. The computer-controlled EPS, advanced algorithms built into the operating software allow fine-tuning of the required steering forces so that minimal force is required at low speeds - such as when parking or maneuvering. Progressively higher steering effort is needed at higher speeds - such as when driving on the freeway.

The EPS system found in the TSX is an evolution of an earlier EPS system found on the Acura NSX supercar. Its key features and advantages include:

• The TSX’s EPS system reduces the steering effort at low speeds, improving agility and ease of effort.
• Rigidity of the steering mount is higher, which allows a much more precise and "connected" feeling during high-speed maneuvers such as lane changes or winding mountain roads.
• The steering assist is programmed via computer algorithms according to vehicle speed rather than engine speed, allowing designers the flexibility of tailoring the steering feel to match driving conditions, especially high-speed driving. The steering boost algorithms are minutely altered for every 1 km/h (0.6 mph) change in vehicle speed.
• EPS employs a sporty, 13.5:1 steering ratio which further improves driving agility.
• In its evolution from the original NSX system, the TSX’s EPS system uses a significantly more powerful electric motor teamed with a more sophisticated microprocessor.
• By eliminating the conventional power steering pump, EPS uses less engine power, benefiting acceleration and fuel economy.

4-WHEEL DISC BRAKES WITH ABS

The 2010 Acura TSX features 4-wheel disc brakes. The front rotors measure 11.8 inches in diameter and are made of cast iron with radial vents for excellent heat dissipation and wear properties. At 11.1 inches diameter, the rear rotors provide enhanced braking capability during repeated use. Floating-style single-piston cast-iron brake calipers are used front and rear. For the TSX V-6, special rear brake pads are used. In addition, the V-6 model makes use of a larger brake master cylinder, a revised pedal ratio and a new brake booster to deliver a more performance minded braking feel.

A sophisticated 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard and works in concert with the vehicle’s Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist, and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) systems for an outstanding array of electronic dynamic aids.

WHEELS AND TIRES

The 2010 TSX comes standard with 17x7.5-inch five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels and Michelin Pilot HX MXM4 P225/50R17 93V all-season tires developed specifically for the vehicle. For TSX V-6 models, the wheels are upgraded to 18x8-inches in size and are fit with performance minded Michelin Pilot HX MXM4 P235/45R18 94V tires. All TSX wheels have a clear-coat aluminum finish designed to compliment the exterior color choices. Located under the trunk floor panel is a T135/80D16 temporary spare tire mounted on a 16x4-inch steel wheel.

TESTING

Dynamic testing and final chassis tuning for the new TSX was conducted both in Japan and America. The TSX was specifically tuned for the best combination of agility and handling needed in an urban environment and at higher speeds. The Los Angeles area, with its huge variety of road surfaces, freeways and topography, proved invaluable in chassis tuning the chassis achieve a balanced overall package. Also invaluable was a "mini-Nurburgring" test course built in Japan especially to replicate some of the most demanding elements of the famed German racetrack.

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Safety

The 2010 Acura TSX provides an extremely high level of standard safety equipment. Key safety technologies include the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, a total of six airbags, and the first use of active front head restraints on the TSX model. In addition, due to its heavier weight (versus the four-cylinder model), the 2010 TSX V-6 features a special polypropylene foam box added to the front bumper beam to provide enhanced energy absorption during a frontal impact.

In 2009, Acura became the first and only automobile nameplate to earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK rating for every vehicle in its entire line-up. To accomplish this safety milestone, all 2009 Acura luxury sedans and SUVs received the highest possible rating in each IIHS crash test and feature the Acura Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) electronic stability control system as standard equipment.

The IIHS top crash safety ratings are a direct result of Acura’s "Safety Through Innovation" initiative that is based on the brand’s commitment to leadership in safety. The initiative’s goal is for all Acura models to provide a high level of occupant protection along with injury mitigation to pedestrians, as well as increased crash compatibility with other vehicles, regardless of size or price.

Advanced safety technology

Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) enhances frontal collision energy management through a network of load-bearing front frame structures that increase the likelihood of two vehicles properly connecting during a collision – important if the vehicles are of different sizes with different bumper heights. As a result, the TSX’s ACE™ body structure maximizes the effectiveness of the front crumple zones as well as dispersing energy through more load-bearing channels before it reaches the passenger area. All Acura models feature the ACE™ body structure.

Inside, the TSX incorporates dual-chamber front-seat side airbags with front passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS) and active head restraints for the front seats that are designed to reduce the likelihood of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. These features compliment a 4-channel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Brake Assist, front seatbelts with automatic tensioning system and load limiters, dual-stage/multiple-threshold front airbags, side curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions and an advanced pedestrian injury mitigation design for the hood, hood hinges and windshield wiper mounts. Daytime running lights (DRL) and driver and front passenger seatbelt reminders are also standard.

Standard safety features include:

Active Safety Systems

• 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist
• Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control (Electronic Stability Control)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Passive Safety Systems

• ACE™ body structure
• 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions
• Front seatbelt load limiters with automatic tensioning system
• Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags
• New dual-chamber front seat side airbags
• Side curtain airbags for all onboard seating positions
• New active front head restraints
• Head restraints for all seating positions
•  Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) child car-seat attachment system located in the rear seat

ADVANCED COMPATIBILITY ENGINEERING™ (ACE™) BODY STRUCTURE

A major safety technology found on the Acura TSX is the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. ACE™ makes the TSX highly effective at absorbing energy during a frontal crash while also helping to minimize the potential for "under-ride" or "over-ride" situations that may occur during head-on or offset frontal impacts with significantly larger or smaller vehicles with different bumper heights. Created using a sophisticated computer-assisted design (CAD) process, the ACE™ body structure is actually a network of integrated load-bearing elements that help attenuate impact forces by more evenly distributing them across a larger area at the front of the vehicle.

Most conventional frame designs direct frontal crash energy to the lower load-bearing structures at the front of the vehicle. Instead, the TSX’s ACE™ body structure channels frontal crash energy to both upper and lower structural areas, including the floor frame rails, side sills and A-pillars. These specially engineered energy "pathways" help distribute frontal impact forces around the passenger compartment and through a greater percentage of the vehicle’s total structure. In doing so, ACE™ helps limit cabin deformation for improved occupant protection.

Inside frame rails
Longitudinal frame rails are positioned above the floor panel rather than below it, both for aerodynamic improvements and to better withstand severe side impacts.

COLLISION STANDARDS

The 2010 TSX achieves 5-Star ratings* in all of the NHTSA governmental NCAP and SINCAP crash tests. In addition, the TSX earns "GOOD" ratings (the top rating) in all of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests including: Frontal Offset, SICE and Headrest tests. Combined with the standard Vehicle Stability Assist™ electronic stability control system, the TSX also receives the IIHS’s TOP SAFETY PICK rating.

*Government star ratings are part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) New Car Assessment Program (www.safercar.gov). Model tested with standard side-impact air bags (SABs).

FMVSS 301 offset rear collision

The Acura TSX meets the stringent FMVSS 301 regulation for offset rear collisions, a much more severe standard than previously used. In the new FMVSS 301 test, a 2,992 lb 1,360 kg (1,360 kg) deformable barrier strikes 70-percent of the vehicle’s width at 50 mph. In contrast, the previous FMVSS 301 used a 3,991 lb (1,814 kg) flat rigid barrier that struck the full width of the vehicle at 30 mph. The new standard requires more body energy absorption than before

VEHICLE STABILITY ASSIST™ (VSA®) WITH TRACTION CONTROL AND BRAKE ASSIST

Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) is an electronic stability control system that works together with the TSX’s Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system and 4-channel ABS system. Its purpose is to enhance overall controllability when the driver accelerates, brakes or turns suddenly. VSA® functions by independently applying brake force to one or more wheels, while also managing the throttle, ignition and fuel systems to help the vehicle maintain the driver’s intended path of travel.

In operation, VSA® continually analyzes data from seven sensors that monitor wheel and vehicle speed, steering input, lateral G forces and yaw rate, while also comparing the driver’s control inputs with the vehicle’s actual response. Whenever the vehicle’s actual response is outside of a predetermined acceptable range, VSA® intervenes with a corrective action. For example, if VSA® detects an oversteer condition (where the rear of the vehicle starts to swing wide in a corner), the system may automatically apply braking force to the outside front and rear wheels to counteract this unintended yaw motion. In the event of understeer (where the front of the vehicle "pushes" toward the outside of a turn), VSA® may apply braking to the inside front and rear wheels while reducing engine power to help return the vehicle to its intended course.

As an added benefit for performance-oriented TSX customers, VSA® also provides a limited-slip differential effect for the front wheels by applying braking force to a slipping wheel, thereby directing the driving force to the wheel with more traction.

Brake Assist
Another key VSA® function is Brake Assist, which recognizes emergency braking situations and almost instantly applies added braking force to help the driver. This feature is controlled by a special logic in the system that determines when the brake pedal stroke and speed exceed a typical range – as they would during emergency braking. The VSA® modulator pump automatically increases braking pressure to ensure maximum stopping force, an action that helps shorten braking distance.

VSA® is calibrated to function seamlessly, and in many cases a driver will not be aware of its operation. However, anytime the system is enhancing vehicle stability, an indicator light flashes on the instrument panel. While the driver can deactivate the VSA® stability enhancement and traction-control functions via a switch on the instrument panel, ABS remains fully operational at all times.

4-CHANNEL ABS WITH ELECTRONIC BRAKE DISTRIBUTION

The TSX is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). The 4-channel/4-sensor ABS system also incorporates Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) circuitry that automatically proportions force based on the braking force needed by each wheel.

DUAL-STAGE, DUAL-THRESHOLD FRONT AIRBAGS

Both the TSX driver and front passenger are protected by advanced front airbags that incorporate dual-stage and multiple-threshold activation technology. In the event of an airbag deployment, these two features work together to help minimize the likelihood of injuries that could sometimes be caused by the airbags themselves. In doing so, Acura’s sophisticated dual-stage, multiple-threshold system matches the airbag deployment rate to both the speed and severity of a crash. The control logic also takes several other factors into consideration, including the seating position of the driver, the weight of the front passenger, as well as whether the seat belts are in use.

For instance, during a lower-speed collision or if the seat is too close to the steering wheel, the inflators in the driver’s frontal airbag will activate sequentially (instead of simultaneously) to help reduce the initial deployment force. In a high-speed collision or if the seat is positioned farther back, both airbag igniters are triggered simultaneously for rapid inflation. The TSX’s passenger-side frontal airbag is designed to operate in a similar manner, however a sensor under the passenger seat calculates whether the weight on the lower cushion meets a minimum value specified by NHTSA. If it doesn’t, such as in the event a child is occupying the seat, the airbag is deactivated – and a light on the instrument panel indicates such a condition.

The driver’s front airbag is located in the steering wheel while the front passenger airbag is located on the top of the dashboard. When deployed, the passenger airbag inflates upward and then rearward to maximize its protective potential while reducing the likelihood of injuries being caused by the activation process.

DUAL-CHAMBER FRONT-SEAT SIDE AIRBAGS

The TSX has front-seat side airbags featuring a dual-chamber design that enhances protection for the torso and pelvis in the event of a severe side impact. Replacing the previous single-chamber airbags, the dual-chamber units have a larger upper chamber that provides improved protection for the chest area, as well as a smaller lower chamber that protects the lower-back/hip area. A single inflator unit fills both airbag chambers. Dual-chamber airbags are significantly more effective in helping minimize potential injuries caused by impacts from larger vehicles, such as a side impact involving a truck.

SIDE-CURTAIN AIRBAGS

Full side-curtain airbags provide head protection for occupants of both the front and outboard rear seats. The airbag modules are mounted in the roof and are activated by a central sensor and sensors in the side of the TSX that-depending on crash severity- determine the most appropriate timing and deployment rates in side or other impacts depending on severity.

FRONT SEATBELTS WITH PRETENSIONERS AND LOAD LIMITERS

Front seatbelts
The TSX front seatbelts are equipped with an automatic tensioning system and load limiters to help minimize injury potential in a frontal collision. If an impact occurs, the automatic tensioning system automatically tightens the front seatbelt to help hold the occupant firmly in position. Each front seatbelt retractor also incorporates a load limiter that works in conjunction with the automatic tensioning system. The load limiter permits a small amount of controlled seatbelt slack momentarily after the automatic tensioning system is activated to limit peak restraining forces, helping to reduce the potential of serious bodily injury. The TSX’s front seatbelts also feature adjustable height shoulder anchors.

Rear seatbelts
Three-point seatbelts are standard in all three rear-seating positions.

HEAD RESTRAINTS

Active front head restraints

The TSX front seats feature active head restraints designed to help minimize the risk of neck injuries in the event of a rear impact. In a rear impact, the driver and front passenger’s bodies are pushed against the seatback, causing the head restraints to move forward in a carefully prescribed arc. This action helps equalize the forces transmitted to the head, neck and spine throughout the collision, a critical factor in helping to minimize potential injuries.

Adjustable rear head restraints
The Acura TSX’s rear seat features individually adjustable head restraints for all three passengers.

LOWER ANCHORS AND TETHERS FOR CHILDREN (LATCH)

Both outboard rear seating positions are fitted with Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) as standard equipment. The LATCH system provides a simple and secure method of installing up to two compatible child safety seats in the outboard seating positions.

TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM (TPMS)

An integrated Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) alerts the TSX driver whenever the air pressure in one or more of the vehicle’s tires decrease significantly below the recommended pressure level. Using four sensors (one in each tire), TPMS monitors and transmits information regarding tire air pressure to the TSX’s MID system. When the pressure in one or more tires drops to a significantly low level, it causes a low tire pressure indicator in the instrument cluster to illuminate.

PEDESTRIAN INJURY MITIGATION

Although there are no official standards for pedestrian injury mitigation in the event a vehicle collides with a pedestrian, the TSX has adopted several innovative safety features to help mitigate pedestrian injury. These features include a deformable hood panel – positioned high enough above the engine and other under-hood components to have space to deform – as well as deformable hood hinges and movable windshield-wiper pivots. These components help dissipate collision forces in the event of contact with a pedestrian, thereby helping to reduce the likelihood, and potential severity, of pedestrian injuries caused by the vehicle-pedestrian contact.

ANTI-THEFT FEATURES

The TSX offers a wide array of security features including an electronic engine immobilizer to help thwart would-be thieves. Security is also advanced by the use of reinforced door lock cylinders to help deter break-ins along with protectors for the hood and trunk locks.

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