UK US
← Acura TSX · 2004-2008 · CL9

Acura TSX 1st Gen (CL9)

K24A2 with a 6-speed manual is the enthusiast pick. Honda quality, Acura badge, sub-$10k now.

Verdict
B
BHP
200-205 bhp
0–60
7.0 s
Top speed
140 mph
MPG
25.0 mpg
Used
$3,000-$10,000

The CL9 was a rebadged JDM Honda Accord 2.4 Type-S — a higher-spec version of the European Accord that Americans never got under the Honda name. The K24A2 4-cylinder made 200 hp at launch, bumped to 205 hp for the 2006 facelift via larger throttle body and revised cams. Rev-happy (peak power at 6,800 rpm, redline 7,100), with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic. Front-wheel-drive only. Excellent chassis tuning, double-wishbone front suspension, and a tight, premium-feeling interior. Won Car and Driver's 10Best three years running (2004-2006) — a real achievement at the time. Reliability is Honda-grade. The K24A2 engine is also why used CL9s are still desirable for engine swaps. Daily driveable, fun to drive, sub-$10k for clean examples now.

Strengths

  • K24A2 engine is one of Honda's best fours — revs cleanly to 7,100 rpm
  • 6-speed manual is shift-perfect Honda quality
  • Double-wishbone front suspension
  • Bulletproof reliability — K24 engine runs forever
  • Won Car and Driver's 10Best three years running
  • Cheap to buy now

Weaknesses

  • Front-wheel-drive only (no AWD option)
  • K24 is vocal at high revs
  • Older interior tech — touchscreen nav in 2004 was advanced, now obsolete
  • Tight rear seat for adults on long trips
  • Steering wheel feels thin by modern standards

Notable tech

  • K24A2 with i-VTEC variable valve timing on intake and exhaust
  • 6-speed manual transmission standard option
  • Double-wishbone front suspension
  • HID headlights standard
  • Touchscreen navigation (2004-onwards)
  • 2006 facelift bumped power 200→205 hp via larger throttle body

Common issues

  • Power steering pump whine and leaks
  • Drive belt tensioner failure (cheap fix)
  • Door lock actuators failing
  • Rear differential wear on AWD-converted swaps (n/a stock)
  • Sun-faded dashboards in southern states

Used-market budget

$6,500

6-speed manual examples command a $1-2k premium over autos. 2006-2008 facelift cars (205 hp) preferred. Avoid heavily-modified examples — many CL9s have been swapped or boosted.