While they are not as roomy as the mid- or full-size class of vehicles, these award-winning small premium cars nevertheless offer more than their share of luxury within their comfortable cabins. Sportier than their larger siblings, the small premium class has proven very popular with consumers who often own them prior to transitioning into a midsize premium car.
This 2009 Small Premium Cars Buyer’s Guide is a compiled list of the top-performing small upscale cars from J.D. Power and Associates three key automotive studies. The studies include the 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the 2008 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS). In addition, we have also noted any models in the guide that have earned “5-star” crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), or have been chosen as “Top Safety Picks” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). All models are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.
2009 Acura TSX
New for the 2009 model year (but released in 2008), the Acura TSX is based on the same platform as the European Honda Accord. Unlike its Honda sibling, the Acura features a suspension tuned for performance and handling making the front-wheel-drive TSX one of the sportiest models in the Acura lineup. Don’t confuse the TSX with other entry-level models—the smallest Acura is well-equipped with many of the same features found on its more expensive siblings, just in a smaller package. The standard engine is a 4-cylinder that earns EPA fuel economy estimates of 20 mpg city, and 28 mpg highway (with automatic transmission). In our 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS), measuring new-vehicle quality after 90 days of ownership, the previous-generation Acura TSX ranked among the top three models in its segment. The completely redesigned 2009 Acura TSX was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In addition, the Acura TSX earned 5-Star crash-test ratings in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) frontal impact testing. New features for 2009 include DVD audio, XM Satellite Notes, and traffic rerouting for the navigation system.
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Other 2009 Small Premium Car models:
