Detroit Auto Show: Acura TSX Sports Sedan Makes World Debut

    DETROIT, Jan. 5, 2003; The all-new Acura TSX sports sedan made its world debut at the North American International Auto Show
today, giving Acura's lineup an entry luxury performance vehicle positioned
between the hot-selling RSX sports coupe and Acura's top-selling 3.2 TL luxury
performance sedan.
    "The TSX is designed to compete head on with other premium sports sedans
from Europe and Japan," said Dick Colliver, Acura executive vice president,
sales.  "With 200 horsepower, a 6-speed manual transmission, race-bred
suspension and an abundance of features, the TSX has what it takes to be a
success in this hotly contested segment."
    The TSX features a 2.4-liter DOHC, i-VTEC engine that generates 200
horsepower at 6800 rpm and 166 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm.  The i-VTEC
"intelligent" valve-control system adjusts valve timing and lift for enhanced
performance across a broad power band in addition to improved fuel economy and
reduced exhaust emissions.
    The TSX is equipped with a drive-by-wire throttle control system for
smooth acceleration.  It comes with either a close-ratio 6-speed manual
transmission or a performance-oriented 5-speed Sequential SportShift(TM)
automatic transmission for precise control of the powerful engine.
    To deliver precise, responsive handling, the TSX utilizes an extremely
rigid unit body structure, a race-bred, 4-wheel-independent double-wishbone
suspension, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), 17-inch alloy wheels and
P215/50R17 all-season performance tires.
    The TSX features an aggressive wedge design with strong character lines
and a highly aerodynamic body.  In front, styling cues include Acura's
signature 5-sided grille, stylish High Intensity Discharge (HID) head lights
and lower air intakes that evoke the image of racing brake ducts.  In the
rear, the backlight slopes to meet a short trunk lid, which terminates sharply
to help air separate cleanly off the back of the car at speed.
    The cockpit of the TSX is sporty yet refined.  It is comprehensively
equipped with deeply-bolstered perforated leather seating, a power moonroof, a
leather-wrapped three-spoke sport steering wheel with integrated audio and
cruise controls, dual-zone automatic climate control, an Acura premium audio
system, power windows and door locks and keyless entry.  The Acura TSX sport
sedan will go on sale at Acura dealerships nationwide in April 2003.