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2007 Acura CSX-Type-S Road Test

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Rob Rothwell
Fast and Furious, and value too!
Fast and Furious, and value too!

Honda Civic Si infuses Acura CSX Type-S
At its 8,000-rpm redline, the scream from the sport-tuned exhaust piping channeled under the four-door body of the CSX Type-S is wild enough to launch Acura's hopped-up entry-level sedan onto the big screen in a "Fast and Furious" sequel. By incorporating the drivetrain and suspension from the Honda Civic Si, Acura has morphed the otherwise sedate CSX into a "tuner" sled, replete with tarmac-searing handling and pulse-quickening acceleration.

The CSX Type-S is essentially a 4-door Civic Si.

Type-S for Type-A

The latest generation of CSX is a great platform on which to produce the fortified Type-S. It's a surprising spacious compact sedan capable of second glances thanks to its dramatic but not over-the-top styling. The significant upgrades accompanying "Type-S" tagging include a 197-horsepower, 2.0L i-VTEC four-cylinder mill affixed to a six-speed manual gearbox, accompanied by a limited-slip helical differential. As with the conventional CSX, power is fed to the front wheels, however Acura's Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), combining traction control and a vehicle stability program, will intervene to keep a suitable level of decorum when emotions and horsepower run high.

For either aspect of VSA to activate, the CSX Type-S must be pushed very aggressively. The Civic Si underpinnings impart highly-reactive, easily-controlled handling dynamics to the baby Type-S. These parts feature stiffer springs, firmer damping and beefier stabilizer bars than the non Type-S model. The Type-S also receives 17-inch alloy wheels and a restrained rear deck spoiler, not to mention embossed leather seating highlighted with white stitching.

A full array of airbags arrive as standard equipment, along with a dual-language (English/French) voice-activated navigation system and a mind-blowing 350-watt 7-speaker audio unit with a digital audio card reader.

Behind the wheel
The CSX Type-S is an entertaining ride for those who seek gutsy performance, or a little "show with their go." It merges all the benefits associated with Acura ownership -- such as outstanding build quality and well-appointed luxury -- with rebel attitude and sizzling performance, all without outlandish over-spending.

From 6,000 rpm on, the Type-S seriously begins to boogie.
Rob Rothwell
Rob Rothwell
Automotive expert