Report: Acura TSX Diesel Delayed Indefinitely
Honda CEO Takeo Fukui announced at the last North American International Auto Show that his company would bring its first ever diesel engine to the USA in 2009, with most speculating that Acura’s TSX would be the first application of the powerplant.
Now various sources are reporting that the i-DTEC TSX has been put in the cooler indefinitely, presumably because the automatic transmission-equipped version of the has been unable to pass emissions testing. While the same source says that the six-speed manual-equipped car was able to cut the EPA mustard, Acura believes that offering the diesel TSX without an automatic option would greatly hurt demand for the vehicle.
Meanwhile the V-6 version of the car is reportedly being “fast-tracked” to make up for the diesel lack. That’s potentially good news for TSX fans but doesn’t do much for the growing legions of diesel-lovers in North America.
Comments
TheStig
Why not just put the RDX Turbo combo in there if they want more power? Yes I know gas mileage is an issue with that combo, but that powertrain is already certified. A small displacement 6 would be cool too, as long as it doesn't upset the balance of the car.
Mena
Because the point is to bring the diesel engine over here. This sucks. I have a friend that's been waiting on this car too.
Adam G
I say they should bring it with the manual, I think people who are determined to buy a diesel will not care as much as someone who just wants 'a car'. When the Saab 9000 debuted in N. America, the only option was with a 5-speed standard for the first year, and it was quite successful.
Anonymous
This is very disappointing. I hope Honda will get the emissions problems fixed so we can have a great (non-urea) diesel sedan. IF VW can do it,why not Honda.
And, by the way, I'd love to get a TSX wagon (aka Euro Honda Accord Estate) in the US, preferably with the diesel automatic. I'd buy one in a heartbeat to replace my 2006 TSX.
A V-6 in a TSX makes NO sense. Power is fine, but get it from a turbo 4 (as in RDX) and tune it for economy. My 1998 Saab 9000 Turbo (200hp) got better mileage than my 1992 Saab 9000 non-turbo, approaching 30 mpg on the highway.
Anonymous
Well the diesel auto is what I was waiting for, oh well, hello VW.
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