Enterprising young whipper-snapper of spy photos Chris Doane happened to snap up some shots of the next-generation 2009 Acura TSX right outside of Honda's US facilities. The new TSX is expected to take on a more "aggressive look" that will, we're sure, not include the duct tape on this test vehicle, but will probably take design cues from the SPORTS 4 concept car Honda's luxe brand showed at the 2005 Tokyo Auto Show. We're told we should expect to see a base model with a 2.4L i-VTEC 4 cylinder engine under the bonnet and a Type-S model with the same 240 HP turbocharged motor found under the hood of the Acura RDX — only in the TSX, it'd get a bit of a boost up to 260 horses. Full spy report below the jump from Priddy's main man and click here for the shot in all its high-res glory.
Early this morning, not far from Honda's U.S. falicities, we were lucky enough to get a quick glance at the next generation Acura TSX.
The new TSX will take on a more aggressive look, taking design cues from the SPORTS 4 concept car shown at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show.
An improved 2.4L i-VTEC 4 cylinder motor will go into the base model with an expected 20-30 horsepower bump. The entry level model will sport either a 6 speed manual, or 5 speed auto, and will be front wheel drive.
A hotter Type-S model should also appear with power coming from the 260hp turbocharged motor also found in the Acura RDX. The sportier model will feature a 6 speed auto/manual DSG gearbox, and is expected to feature Honda's Super Handling All Wheel Drive system.
While this vehicle will be sold as the Acura TSX in the United States, this same car, with just a few minor styling adjustments, will also sell in European markets as the new Honda Accord.
With the 2008 Honda Accord getting a diesel motor, it is possible that we could see a diesel TSX as well.
Look for the TSX to start production towards the end of 2008.