Originally posted by LuckyDog
The only thing is the 2001 A4's body style was much older than the 2001 Passat's (A4 came out in 96 I think, Passat in 98). Therefore, they it's more along the lines of "they put an Audi interior in a VW" wheres the Accord coming out first is "they put an Accord interior in the TSX".
Yeah...that's the problem of the perception. People don't say the A4 is a upsize Passat, but a Passat is a downsized A4. People will say the TSX is an upscaled Accord, no doubt about that. But I think the difference is before 1998, Passat really didn't have an established name and VW brand was going to a bad tormoil, so using the upscale Audi name to connect to VW was a great plan to help the brand back on its feet.
Using this same concept, Honda might be using the Accord, a name with already good reputation, for its springboard for the TSX, a brand new name in Acura's line. The TSX might cover where the Accord leaves off, that is, a sportier exterior and more fun driving experience. Just my speculations.
