Originally posted by kazi
But I think the difference is that the A4 came out before the Passat, therefore there's a recognition that Passat is a downsized A4. Whereas the Accord came out before the TSX, so the perception is the TSX is an upsized Accord.
The normal buyer doesn't know or care which came first. Acura and Infiniti have certain reputations for rebadging lower end models and adding leather. True? Absolutely not. But that's the perception. Audi doesn't have that. Besides, the A4 and Passat have unique looks. TSX kinda looks like a family sedan (Camry or Accord).