2008 Acura Tsx in Southern Pines, NC - $9,195

Introduced last year, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon is a new variant for the TSX model line. With crisp styling and added utility, the TSX Sport Wagon is a smart alternative for those considering a compact SUV. Besides offering better fuel economy, the TSX Sport Wagon provides cargo area comparable to that of many CUVs. Plus, the TSX Sport Wagon offers an available power actuated tailgate, a multi-configurable rear cargo area (with numerous hidden storage areas) and a low lift-over height allowing for easy loading.

Updates for 2012 include even more rear cargo space. Replacing the safety spare tire with a new tire repair kit allows the under-floor storage area to be significantly enlarged. As a result, the total rear cargo area increases to 66.2 cubic feet— a gain of 5.7 cubic feet.

Power for the TSX wagon is generated by the automaker's 2.4L four-cylinder engine, with torque communicated to the pavement through a five-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and Grade Logic Control.

The TSX Sport Wagon benefits from the receipt of the same wide array of features, options, and technology-- with particular attention being paid to further improving quality and reducing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) as the TSX sedan. On the outside, all TSX models received a new front fascia and an updated grill last year that team with new underbody panels to improve aerodynamics. The standard 17-inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels are more cutting edge as they now incorporate a machined lip on the spokes. At the rear, a new garnish around license plate area and revised taillights deliver added visual punch.

Inside the passenger cabin all TSX models receive a host of visual upgrades in the form of revised styling for the center console, darker trim pieces, brightly finished door handles, an updated parking brake handle, new steering wheel garnishes along with contrasting-color stitching for the leather seats, door armrests and center console. Rear seat occupants will enjoy added comfort thanks to the addition of heating/cooling vents mounted at the rear of the center console.

The Sport wagon also features four hidden compartments for out-of-sight storage. A 2.4 cu-ft storage area is cleverly located beneath a lift-up hatch within the load floor. Smaller items can be placed in a 0.2 cu-ft storage area (hidden by a removable panel) located in the side panel on the driver side, or in one of two 13-inch long storage areas near the main in-floor storage area. With a low lift-over height of about 24-inches, loading heavy items is simplified. For increased security, standard is a retractable cover that prevents rear cargo items from being seen should a passer-by look into the rear windows.

Even with the second row seat in use, there is generous cargo space available in the Sport Wagon. The rear seats have a 60/40 fold-down design, so one section can be lowered to generate more cargo room while the other section can remain in the up position to accommodate a rear seat passenger. Or, both seats can be folded down to attain the maximum cargo area replete with a load-flat floor that is nearly 70-inches long. As expected, the Sport Wagon incorporates a variety of tie-down hooks for keeping cargo items secure.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 106.4; overall length: 189.2; width: 72.4; height: 57.9

All vehicle measurements are in inches

Engine: 2.4L four-cylinder – 201 hp at 7,000 rpm and 170 lbs-ft of torque at 4,300 rpm.

Transmission: five-speed automatic w/Sequential SportShift and Grade Logic Control.

EPA Fuel Economy: 22 city/30 highway

Cargo Capacity: 66.2 cubic feet

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, traction control, electronic stability control, HomeLink garage door opener, Bluetooth hands free phone system, fog lights, engine immobilizer, daytime running lights, remote keyless entry, alarm system, automatic headlights, side-impact door beams, tire pressure monitoring system, and Xenon high intensity discharge headlamps. Technology Package adds navigation system, AcuraLink satellite communcations and rearview camera.

Optional safety features include back-up sensors.

Warranty

Basic: 4-year/50,000 mile

Powertrain: 6-year/70,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 4-year/50,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Acura TSX Sport Wagon starts from $31,160. Destination charges add $885.