Mom's Taxi: Quiet, comfortable driving experience from Acura

For many years, Acura's most popular model in the line-up has been the TSX. It gets the nod because its pricing -- from $20,000 to $30,000 -- is considered "entry premium." In other words, its pricing may be seen as an affordable first step for those whose goal is to own a car with a luxury name tag, but without the hefty price tag.

These TSX cars underwent a complete makeover for 2011, and for 2012 the line-up receives an additional model: the Special Edition. This version is a sporty, spunky car that Acura hopes will attract the attention of young professionals, ages 28 to 34 years old.

All Acura TSX models received plenty of upgrades for the 2011 model year, and just a few refinements for the 2012 models. Initial redesign efforts included changes to the exterior design, improved quality touches throughout, an increased focus on cabin quiet and more fuel-efficient engines. For 2012, there is more cargo space in the TSX Sport Wagon, and an available power tailgate.

And then there is this new TSX Special Edition, with its sport-leaning attitude. It is available in either a 4-cylinder or a V-6, but who needs all the extra horses when the 4-cylinder is this incredibly responsive? Just asking.

The Acura's new look starts with changes to the front fascia and "chin spoiler," the addition of fog lights and an updated grille. At the rear, you'll find a new taillight and rear license plate design.

TSX models with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine receive standard

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17-inch, five-spoke aluminum wheels; models with the 3.5-liter V6 engine get 18-inch, five-spoke aluminum wheels.

Acura puts an emphasis on cabin comfort and quiet, and it is apparent in the TSX. It's nice to not have to compete with roadway noise as you chat with your rear seat passengers. To make their cabins even more sound-resistant, Acura added new acoustic glass in the front windshield, even thicker side glass, more sound-deadening insulation and improved floor mats and underfloor covers.

Interior changes include a newly styled front console, updated parking brake handle and enhancements to the door handles and the steering wheel. It's also a little more comfortable for rear seat passengers, as heating and cooling vents have been added to the rear of the center console.

Standard safety features on board the 2012 Acura TSX Special Edition begin with dual stage air bags for driver and front passenger, side curtain air bags, and state-of-the-art braking technology in the form of Vehicle Stability Assist, Electronic Brake Distribution, Brake Assist, and Anti-Lock Braking systems. Front headrests are active, which should help reduce whiplash injury potential, and the whole car is built on the enhanced ACE body structure that also includes reinforced side impact door beams.

Our test car came with such nice-to-have standard amenities as leather seats, XM Satellite Radio, a driver recognition memory system and eight-way power seats that were also heated, and power windows with an automatic up/down feature.

The test car also had a premium sound system that included seven speakers.

Seating in the Acura TSX is comfortable in all positions, although the rear seat might be tight for three adults. Visibility for all is also good, no matter where you are seated. The trunk is good sized and easily handled a load of suitcases.

The Acura TSX Special Edition's fuel economy is rated at 21 mpg for city driving and 29 mpg for highway driving.

Overall, we found the 2012 Acura TSX Special Edition to be a really fun car to drive. It is quiet, comfortable and nice to look at. Constantly on-the-go parents, or commuters, will certainly enjoy their time on the road in this car.