Acura TSX

Importing a used Acura TSX from the USA

The Acura TSX is one of the more interesting cars to import from America precisely because it was never sold here under that name. Acura is Honda's North American luxury brand, and the TSX was the US-market version of a car Europe knew as the Honda Accord (the Euro Accord/CL9 and CU2). That makes a used TSX import a way to own a well-built, enthusiast-favourite Honda sedan with distinct Acura equipment and badging that stands out on German roads. USCar Trader acts as your independent broker: we source the car, verify the VIN and build plant, and manage the process through to German registration, holding no stock and taking no vehicle margin.

Model history and generations

The first-generation TSX (chassis CL9) sold from the 2004 to 2008 model years, a compact sport sedan based on the Japanese and European Accord. The second generation (CU2) ran from 2009 to 2014, growing slightly and adding a V6 option and, from 2011, a practical TSX Sport Wagon. Both generations were pitched as the entry point to the Acura range, prized by owners for tight build quality, a communicative chassis and a genuinely usable manual gearbox. This is a car with a strong enthusiast following in the United States, which keeps clean examples in circulation.

Engines and drivetrain

The core engine across both generations is Honda's 2.4-litre K24 four-cylinder with i-VTEC, producing around 200-201 hp and revving with the eagerness that made the K-series famous. From 2010 the second-generation TSX added a 3.5-litre J35 V6 with roughly 280 hp for buyers wanting more effortless pace. Transmissions are a slick six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic on the four-cylinder, while the V6 came only with the five-speed automatic. Every TSX is front-wheel drive. The K24 manual combination is the enthusiast's choice and the configuration most sought after in the used market.

Which trim makes sense

The TSX kept it simple: a four-door sedan across both generations, plus the second-generation Sport Wagon estate from 2011. Rather than a long trim ladder, most equipment was standard, with a Technology Package adding navigation, a premium ELS audio system and upgraded features. Leather, heated seats, sunroof and dual-zone climate were typical, giving the car a well-rounded specification straight off the used lot.

Supply on the US market

Because the TSX was popular and durable, the American pool is deep. Typical import candidates are 2004 to 2014 cars with 90,000 to 200,000 km, reflecting their age, though many have been well maintained by enthusiast owners. Manual four-cylinder sedans and the rarer Sport Wagon attract the most attention. Southern and western cars offer the cleanest bodies; northern examples need a careful rust inspection. No European price is quoted here, as it depends on the specific car and market.

Who benefits from importing

The TSX suits a buyer who values Honda reliability, a rev-happy engine and a car that is simply not seen in Europe. It is a modest-power sport sedan, not a muscle car, so anyone chasing outright speed should consider the V6 or look elsewhere. For a driver who wants a dependable, characterful modern classic with cheap Honda mechanical parts, a used TSX import is a smart, low-risk entry into the world of American imports.

Technical data

Known weak points and maintenance

The TSX is one of the more dependable cars you can import, thanks to Honda's proven K24 engine. That said, a few known traits are worth checking. The K24 can develop a cold-start rattle from the VTC (variable timing control) actuator, which is usually harmless but can be a repair item. Some engines consume oil as they age, so check levels and history. Engine and transmission mounts wear and produce vibration or clunks. On manual cars, verify clutch condition; on automatics, confirm smooth shifts and fluid service. The V6 is torquier but adds weight over the front axle and slightly higher running costs. Suspension bushings, front control arms and the usual age-related items should be assessed, and any northern-state car checked thoroughly for underbody rust, which is the TSX's real enemy rather than the drivetrain.

US and EU spec compared

Although the TSX is mechanically close to the Euro Accord, the US car has American lighting: no rear fog lamp and FMVSS headlights requiring ECE adaptation, plus US-pattern side markers. The speedometer reads in miles per hour. Interior badging, the ELS audio system and North American navigation distinguish it from the European Accord, and it is the Acura identity that gives the import its appeal.

The import process in detail

A specific car is selected first, then the VIN and build plant are verified to establish origin. Payment is handled through secured escrow. The car is booked onto ocean freight, cleared through customs on arrival, presented for TUV and individual approval (Einzelabnahme), and finally registered. USCar Trader coordinates each stage as your broker.

What customs clearance really costs

Remember: no origin proof, no 0% duty – and 19% German import VAT is due on every import.

Import duty depends on documented origin. Under EU Regulations 2026/1455 and 2026/1461, in force since 1 July 2026 for directly transported goods until 31 December 2029, a 0% rate applies only where US origin is proven by VIN and plant. The TSX was assembled in Sayama, Japan, so a US-origin claim generally will not apply and the standard duty rate is likely, confirmed per car. Separately, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) always applies on customs value plus freight. USCar Trader takes no vehicle margin.

TUV, modifications and registration

Typical work includes fitting a rear fog lamp, adapting headlights to ECE beam pattern, correcting side markers and documenting the odometer conversion to kilometres. After individual approval the car is registered on its new German papers.

Check before you buy

Confirm the 17-digit VIN across car and documents. Obtain a Carfax or AutoCheck report for accident, title and mileage history. Inspect the underbody and arches carefully for rust, especially on northern cars. Listen for VTC rattle and check oil consumption and service history. Verify clutch or automatic transmission condition. Check mounts and suspension bushings. Confirm a clean, non-salvage title unless knowingly accepted.

Common questions

Is the Acura TSX reliable?

Yes, the K24 engine is among Honda's most durable; the main things to watch are the VTC actuator rattle, oil consumption on older units and rust on northern cars.

Four-cylinder or V6?

The 2.4 K24, especially with the manual, is the enthusiast favourite for balance and economy; the V6 offers more effortless pace with higher running costs.

Will the TSX qualify for 0% EU import duty?

Generally no, because it is built in Japan rather than the USA. Duty is set per VIN and plant, and the 19% import VAT always applies.

Is the TSX just a US Honda Accord?

Essentially yes; it is closely related to the Euro Accord (CL9/CU2) but wears Acura badging and equipment not sold in Europe.

Can I import the Sport Wagon?

Yes, the 2011-2014 TSX Sport Wagon is a practical estate and a sought-after import, though rarer than the sedan.

Are parts easy to get in Germany?

Mechanical parts are largely shared with Honda and readily available; some Acura-specific trim ships from the US.

What mileage should I expect?

Given the car's age, import candidates commonly show 90,000 to 200,000 km, so service history matters more than the number.

Does USCar Trader handle the whole import?

Yes. As an independent broker we manage sourcing, escrow, freight, customs, TUV and registration.

Browse more of the brand in the Acura in the Carhub, compare the related Acura TL, Acura TLX and Acura ILX, or browse the current TSX listings.