2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon

 

The 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon made the cut for TheCarConnection's Best Car to Buy 2011 competition, though the new Hyundai Sonata passed it for the top honors. But with an overall score of 8.5 out of 10 riding on last year's TSX sedan, we're expecting great things from the Sport Wagon in our first drive tomorrow.

This week, we're getting our first shot behind the wheel of the new family hauler outside of San Francisco. Before our first drive, we're bringing you a batch of new TSX Sport Wagon photos just issued by Acura. The new wagon looks good in person--and now you can see it in two shades, to see if the European design wears as well in America as it does Over There.

The TSX Sport Wagon isn't substantially different--cargo hold aside--from the TSX sedan, which appeared at the 2010 Los Angeles auto show in refreshed form. The drivetrain is a bit more limited, though: the wagon only will be offered with the 201-horsepower four-cylinder engine and five-speed, paddle-shifted automatic, while the sedan still offers a manual version, as well as a V-6 option.

Despite the TSX being a top choice in its class, Acura has not rested on its laurels, as a host of major updates have been made for 2011. Topping the list, the Acura TSX receives a freshened exterior look along with a wide array of new features and technology - with particular attention being paid to further improving quality and cabin quietness. In addition, significant improvements have been made to both the 2.4L I-4 and 3.5L V-6 engines that yield improved fuel efficiency and longer engine life.

While the TSX sedan receives significant updates for 2011, the big news is an all-new TSX variant - the Acura TSX Sport Wagon. With crisp styling and added utility, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon is a smart alternative for those considering a compact SUV. Besides offering better fuel economy, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon provides comparable cargo area to many compact SUVs. Plus, the Acura TSX Sport Wagon offers a multi-configurable rear cargo area (with numerous hidden storage areas), a low lift-over height allowing for easy loading and unloading, and an available power actuated tailgate.

"The all-new Acura TSX Sport Wagon is a smart alternative for those needing added utility," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With the Sport Wagon, the customer simultaneously enjoys the benefits of sports-sedan performance along with SUV-like cargo capacity."

Acura's philosophy of smart luxury is well evidenced by the combination of great looks, a luxury interior available with a wide variety of technology features, and excellent safety - all for an exceptional level of value. Thanks to this great mix of attributes, the TSX has the largest percentage of buyers under 30 among all luxury sedans and has remained the volume leader within its segment according to Global Insight.