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When first launched, Acura’s TSX was a neat and tidy package. It was a treat for the eyes and fun to drive.

Five years later, its place in Acura’s lineup is more significant and it shows. Beneath the layer of pomp and circumstance associated with the launch here, there’s something else: More purpose; more urgency. Sure, the TSX has been a good seller for Honda’s upscale division, behind the larger TL sedan and MDX sport-ute. However, with the so-called near-premium segment, which includes such brands as Audi A3, BMW 1-series and Lexus IS250, expected to grow at a healthy clip in the next few years, the TSX’s importance to Acura can’t be overstated.

The original 2004-’08 TSX, which was based on the European version of the Honda Accord, elicited positive comments from both purchasers and the media, but its shortcomings, including a tight-fitting cabin and slightly choppy ride, were obvious areas to fix for the 2009 model.

Happily, that’s just what the Acura team has done. The new TSX remains based on the latest Accord, which means the car is now six centimetres longer, 7.5-centimetres wider and the distance between the front and rear wheels has grown by a bit more than three centimetres. This puts the TSX on nearly the same footing as the Accord in terms of width, but it remains somewhat shorter.

That’s an important distinction, since the new TSX now appears similar to the Accord in many respects, but still retains a sportier, tauter attitude, suggesting it can handle twisty roads as well, if not better, than the outgoing model. A wider track (the distance between the left and right wheels) also helps in this regard.

Luggage space closely matches that of the previous model, but the trunk lid has been widened and the load floor lowered for easier access.

The TSX’s bigger size should silence the critics who felt the interior was a bit too cramped. Three adult-sized riders will now fit more comfortably in back, while front-seat passengers shouldn’t have to pass around the breath mints quite so often.

The TSX shape is highlighted by more aggressive sheet metal, with prominently bulging fenders and a more distinctive grille that has been fitted with some major chrome trim. Anonymity is clearly becoming a big no-no these days inside the Honda/Acura design studios.

Anyone hoping the next TSX would would receive a big boost in power might feel disappointed.

The upgraded 2.4-litre four-cylinder is now rated at 201 horsepower (four ponies fewer than last year) and torque maxes out at 172 pound-feet, a modest gain of eight.

As before, the powerplant can be hitched to a six-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic, but the auto box now gets steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

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A hallmark of all Acura models is that they arrive virtually loaded to the roof. That’s certainly true of the TSX, which counts dual-zone climate control, power moonroof, xenon headlamps, seven-speaker audio system, tilt/telescopic steering wheel and heated power-adjustable front seats among its many standard features.

Buyers can add a navigation system, perforated leather seats, plus a few other high-tech gee-gaws, but perhaps the most impressive option is the 10-speaker, 415-watt premium sound system.

Elliott Scheiner, a six-time Grammy award-winning sound-studio engineer who has collaborated with the likes of The Eagles, Steely Dan and Sting, helped specifically design this package for the TSX and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

Elsewhere, TSX remains a carefully crafted blend of goodness and virtue, whether you’re behind the wheel, spectating from the right seat or enjoying the ride from the bleachers.

However, for the driver, this car conveys a feel of comfort and competence at a price that’s in reach of more than just a privileged few.