2008 Acura CSX

NEW FOR 2008:

- CSX Premium renamed CSX Technology, including navigation system and fog lamps

- Standard Vehicle Stability Assist on CSX and CSX Technology

- Standard leather upholstery on base CSX

- Standard tire pressure monitoring system and illuminated vanity mirrors on all models

- Standard XM Satellite Radio on Technology and Type-S

- Exterior colours: Tango Red and Taffeta White added; Haberno Red deleted

For 2008, the Acura CSX receives upgrades to its standard equipment; all models now feature leather upholstery and electronic stability control.

Exclusive to the Canadian market, the CSX is Acura's entry model, sharing its platform and much of its appearance with the Honda Civic. All models use a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that makes 155 hp in the CSX and Technology, and 197 hp in the Type-S. The CSX models use a five-speed manual transmission that can be optioned to a five-speed automatic, while the Type-S uses a close-coupled six-speed manual transmission.

Features on the CSX include 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, power sunroof, leather-wrapped tilt and telescopic wheel, power windows, variable intermittent wipers, CD/MP3 stereo, heated leather seats with manual adjustment, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and floor mats.

The Technology package adds high-intensity discharge headlights, fog lamps, XM Satellite Radio, premium stereo and bilingual voice-activated navigation system.

The Type-S builds on the Technology and adds 17-inch alloy wheels, helical limited-slip differential, sport-tuned suspension and rear spoiler.

Like the Civic, the CSX is a well-balanced and solid car, but with upscale appointments and, in the Type-S, extra power and performance in a handy little package. All models are a good stepping-stone for those who prefer the Acura's performance, but who don't want to stray too far from the Civic's price-tags.