On paper, Acura's all-new TSX sports sedan has the goods.

It's laden with new technology -- quite a bit for what's essentially an entry-level luxury sedan selling for around $30,000.

It's got terrific cornering ability -- flat as a pancake.

It's got what is hands-down, one of the best audio systems in the business -- an optional 10-speaker ELS surround sound system.

Then there is the rearview camera, DVD-based navigation system, voice recognition and Bluetooth capability.

So why am I not in love with this car?

While I certainly would welcome it in my driveway, it just didn't "speak" to me, lacking a "gotta have it" factor.

When you're competing in a crowded competitive field that includes luminaries such as BMW Three Series, Mercedes C Class, Cadillac CTS and others, you'd better have a "can't live without it" thing going on for you.

That isn't to say Acura can't build "gotta have it" cars. Quite the contrary.

The TL is on just about everybody's wish list.

When I drove it, my thoughts were, "I want one … No, I want three."

But unlike the TL, the TSX lacks charisma.

Although the car is attractive, it certainly doesn't stand out from the gaggle of midsize and small sedans.

It does matter what color it comes in, however.

The TSX looks much better in a lighter shade because you can see all of the nuances -- light plays on the surface of the car.

In a dark shade, it looks like just another Honda Accord.

It's biggest issue, however, lies in the steering system. It's an electric design, which feels uncertain and wobbly.

I found myself constantly having to make minor readjustments while I was driving.

Although the 201-horsepower V-6 feels good on the open road, the sound it makes is both whiny and loud.

It even sounded as if it were straining going uphill. Not good.

Acura needs to come up with a sound that befits the engine's performance.

In all fairness, though, there were plenty of strong points to the TSX. The seats are undeniably some of the best around in terms of looks, support and comfort. They gently hold you in place without feeling as though you're trapped.

I loved the instrumentation because it looked classy, bringing to mind parts of expensive cameras.

But I must admit because of the incredible number of dials, buttons and gizmos that many people will probably feel intimidated in this car.

The bottom line is that the Acura TSX is a nice car -- but not a terrific one.

While Acura lovers will take to it instantly, those who comparison shop may find themselves lured to go elsewhere.