Three Strikes: The Pedestrian 2011 TSX Sport Wagon
We had high hopes for the Acura TSX Sport Wagon. Unveiled yesterday at the New York Auto Show, the production specifications leave much to be desired. This is a classic case of “Three strikes and you’re out!”
Strike One: The TSX Sport Wagon will only be offered with a 200hp 2.4L Inline four cylinder. Enthusiasts were keeping their fingers crossed for the RDX’s 2.3L turbocharged mill, or at the very least the 3.5L V6 from the TSX Sedan. No dice on either.
Strike Two: The only transmission offered with this anemic four cylinder is a 5-speed Automatic. No manual, not even as a special order, will be offered. A four-cylinder engine isn’t the end of the world, but paired with a boring automatic transmission, not leaving the house becomes a more attractive option.
Strike Three: This 5-door Honda Accord Wagon clone will only be offered with front-wheel drive. As the TSX Wagon will be competing with the BMW 3-Series Touring and Audi A4 Avant (both offered with all-wheel drive), this may be a major hurdle to overcome for consumers.
In Europe, at least you can have this wagon with a proper manual and the choice of a very torquey and fuel efficient diesel. We will reserve final judgment until a road test, but for time being, lets just call it the TSX Sport Wagon.
April 1st (Source: Acura USA)