According to LeftLane and the Acura TSX Community, there’s some speculation as to wether Acura is going to offer the TSX in a Type-S guise.
Known as the Honda Accord in other markets, the TSX is a highly polished, front-wheel-driven, mid-size sedan powered by an i-VTEC 2.4L DOHC 4cylinder motor. The new 2009 model is expected to develop between 220-230HP, but rumours are abound of a new TSX Type-S producing anywhere from 260HP from a turbocharged i-VTEC motor. Coupled with Honda’s SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) and the possibility of a DSG gearbox or 6 speed, this could be a serious bit of kit.
We’re taking this with a grain of salt. The Acura/Honda’s i-VTEC 4cyl is a considerably advanced peice of motor, and is known for technical wizardry in terms of it’s management system. Honda hasn’t produced a turbocharged car in quite some time, at least one with a wide adoption rate, let alone on a mainstream, popular model.
Coupled with V-TEC technology, a turbocharged motor may be a steep challenge to Honda — but we wouldn’t dismiss them on this alone. After all, Honda have surprised us before with fantastic technical achievements. We also hope Honda/Acura considers a turbo-diesel variant of the 2009 TSX as well to round out a solid model lineup.
We haven’t heard anything on the technical side of this rumor from Japan, but we’re watching with interest. Fingers crossed, we’ll see a boosted Type S in 2009.
[Sources: LeftLane, Acura TSX Community]
[Credits: Thanks for the tip, Kris!]
More