It has the size of a Mercedes-Benz C300, a more powerful engine than the BMW 323i and a stylishly understated appearance that can rival the Audi A4. Yet, the Acura TSX has never enjoyed the same kind of success as these three German rivals.

The Acura TSX has never enjoyed the same kind of success as the Mercedes-Benz C300, BMW 323i and Audi A4.

Introduced at the 2003 NAIAS in Detroit, the TSX sedan has been given very different roles in Canada and the U.S. Out here, it aimed to bridge the gap between the former EL (now called CSX) and the larger TL. Across the border, however, the absence of the EL made the TSX Acura's new entry-level model.

In Canada, this small midsize sedan got stuck between two winners. The CSX and TL are by far the Japanese brand's most popular cars. Pricing for the TSX also put it at a value disadvantage when compared to a nicely equipped CSX and a base TL.

Sales figures speak for themselves. According to DesRosiers Automotive Reports, 3,729 CSX units and 3,995 TLs were sold in Canada in 2007, whereas the TSX only found 2,104 takers. Even the MDX and RDX crossovers proved more popular with 6,017 and 4,104 units sold, respectively. For Acura dealers, the TSX is nothing more than sand between the bricks.

More popular in the U.S.
Meanwhile, our Southern neighbors face a very different situation, which explains why the TSX is still alive in North America. Over there, this sedan plays a more prominent role, with 33,037 units sold last year. Of course, the TL recorded twice as many sales, while the MDX was a strong performer with 54,121 units sold. Still, the TSX is more successful than the new RDX (9,164 units)... and more than just sand for U.S. dealers.

Naturally, at parent company Honda, the hopes are high for the completely redesigned 2009 Acura TSX, which is set to make its arrival in Canadian dealerships on April 21. This second generation means there will soon be good deals to be had on the current model.

Rearward visibility is limited due to the tall beltline.

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