09-06-2025
Want Practicality on a Budget? Here Is One Used Luxury Wagon That Costs Less Than $15,000
The station wagon traces its roots back to 1910, when independent coachbuilders crafted custom bodies on the Ford Model T chassis. Back then, they were designed to shuttle passengers and their luggage to and from train stations, effectively laying the groundwork for what would become a family-friendly icon in automotive history.
Over the decades, the wagon evolved to fit growing families and all their cargo, becoming a staple of suburban life. Iconic models like the 1949 Buick Estate Wagon, the Pontiac Bonneville Safari, the Chevy Caprice Wagon, and the AMC Eagle of the 80s reflected this shift. While the station wagon changed forms throughout time and proved to be a practical solution for the family road trip, they were historically regarded as being uncool.
That began to change in the early 2000s, when automakers began to blend performance and style into the long-roof formula. Models like the Audi A6 Avant, BMW 5 Series Touring, and the turbocharged Volvo V70 R redefined the wagon's image as they combined utility with a sleek design. In 2011, Acura joined the trend when it released the TSX Wagon, a roomier and more practical version of its popular second-generation TSX sedan, first introduced in 2009.
At first glance, the 2011 Acura TSX Wagon looks a little funky, especially if you're familiar with the more balanced proportions of the TSX sedan. Its extended rear overhang and raked tailgate give it a European silhouette that may be polarizing to some. But underneath that unique hatch was a car that prioritized versatility without sacrificing the sportiness that Acura buyers expected.
Lift up the rear hatch, and you will be greeted with 60 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear seats are folded down. That's more than enough space for a weekend of luggage, a bike, or a trip to Costco. The TSX Wagon had a low and flat loading floor, making it easy to get large and heavy items into its cargo area. As an added plus, the rear opening was wide, and there was also a cargo cover to keep items out of the prying view of potential thieves.
However, the TSX Wagon wasn't only made for hauling cargo. It shared that same chassis and powertrain as the TSX sedan, which means that it had agile handling that made it fun to throw around tight corners on a back road. Under its hood sat a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that produced 201 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque through a five-speed automatic transmission. Sadly, the TSX wagon was never available with a manual transmission or a V6 like its sedan counterpart. Still, for most buyers, the powertrain provided a good balance between fuel economy and everyday drivability.
Despite the Acura TSX Wagon's practicality and well-mannered driving dynamics, it didn't exactly fly off the dealership lots. It debuted in 2011 and was quietly discontinued after the 2014 model year, making it one of the shortest-production wagons in Acura's history. Part of the issue was timing, as most Americans were stuck on buying SUVs and crossovers in the 2010s. Crossovers, like the Honda CR-V and Acura RDX, were dominating the market, while wagons struggled to find their stride.
Another setback for the TSX Wagon was that it wasn't a hit with Acura enthusiasts. The decision to not include a manual transmission, an optional V6 engine, or the brand's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system to help it compete with other European wagons turned out to be a bad move. In that sense, the TSX Wagon may have felt too restrained for some enthusiasts. However, it has aged well over the years and has even developed a bit of a cult following among wagon lovers and Honda/Acura fans.
The Acura TSX Wagon had Honda underpinnings, which meant that it was relatively cheap to maintain and reliable to boot. Due to its short time in the market, the TSX Wagon has a rare appeal in today's used market and is quite the conversation starter in nearly any parking lot or car meet. Although Acura never built another wagon, this oddball TSX has a legacy that lives on for those who appreciate utility without the flashiness of a German badge.
If you're in the market for a car that's practical, reliable, and easy to drive, the TSX Wagon is definitely worth some consideration. With its Honda DNA, the TSX Wagon is known for being dependable, and its naturally aspirated engine is strong and easy to service. That powertrain, combined with its spacious cargo area, comfortable interior, and composed ride, will give you a practical car that will make daily commuting easy, despite it being over 10 years old.
That said, there are a few caveats to keep in mind when shopping for an Acura TSX Wagon, since it was sold in limited numbers. Clean examples of the car could be hard to find, and in some cases, the used price can reflect its rarity. Kelley Blue Book lists its average used price at $8,845, but that price can vary depending on the used model's condition, mileage, and location. Also, if you're expecting sporty performance or modern tech features, the TSX Wagon may not deliver, as it's more catered to being subtly sophisticated as opposed to being an outright performer.
However, if you want a Japanese wagon that offers real-world utility, then the TSX Wagon delivers in spades. It's an excellent choice that rewards those who can look past its odd aesthetics by offering them a blend of comfort, function, and the type of character that's rare in today's market.
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