Overview & Reviews
The Acura RSX is a two-door sport hatchback. Replacing the Integra coupe, the RSX served as Acura's entry-level car from 2002 until 2006, when the brand decided to move itself more upscale and the car no longer fit into the company's scheme. Nevertheless, as a used car, both versions of the RSX should appeal to consumers desiring a reasonably affordable car that offers sporty coupe-like styling and accessible performance. Like most Acura vehicles, the RSX boasts a high level of refinement as well as a reputation for above-average reliability, competitive pricing and strong resale value.
In road tests, our editors found the RSX's main performance strengths to be nimble handling and responsive steering. The Type-S was particularly rewarding to drive. Throughout its production run, the Acura RSX was one of our favorite sport hatchbacks, but toward the end, several new and redesigned competitors of both versions usurped our favor.
Most Recent Acura RSX
Nearly every feature on the Acura RSX was standard, which makes finding a preferably equipped vehicle easy. Throughout its lifespan, there were two trim levels available: base and Type-S. The base model should work well for consumers interested in having a fun-to-drive car that's comfortable for daily commuting. The RSX Type-S has mechanical upgrades that increase the car's performance potential.
The base RSX came standard with the majority of convenience features expected for this class of car. Highlights included automatic climate control, power windows and mirrors, keyless entry, cruise control, a CD player and a moonroof. A smooth-revving four-cylinder was standard, and it came mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic. The base RSX initially produced 160 horsepower, but new SAE horsepower ratings in 2006 changed the number to 155. Leather seating was the only option.
The RSX Type-S added an in-dash six-CD changer, standard leather seating, 17-inch wheels, a more firmly tuned suspension and more powerful brakes. The Type-S also had a four-cylinder engine tuned to produce extra horsepower (200 hp, later increased to 201). A six-speed manual was the only choice for a transmission.
Because of its four-cylinder engine and front-wheel-drive layout, the Acura RSX boasts better fuel economy than many other sport hatchbacks and coupes. Front-seat occupants will be comfortable, but adults sitting in back will find headroom lacking. The rear seat is split 60/40 and can be lowered to increase cargo capacity. So configured, the RSX boasts nearly 18 cubic feet of luggage space.
Consumers interested in a used or pre-owned RSX should not have a problem finding one that matches their desires. Only minor changes were made after the car's debut. The most significant of these occurred on the 2005 RSX model, when Acura revised the suspension and steering for better feel and response, updated the exterior styling and slightly increased the Type-S's horsepower output to 201.
Past Acura RSX Models
The RSX replaced the Acura Integra. Shoppers interested in a used Acura sport hatchback previous to '02 will want to research this model.
User Reviews:
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A great little car - 2003 Acura RSX
By mjl73187 - September 7 - 11:11 pmThis is truly a little gem of a car. Ive had mine for over four years, put almost 50,000 miles on it, driven it three times round-trip from Connecticut to Arkansas, driven it around the mean streets of Brooklyn. It never lets me down. Ive driven it at 80+ mph with all my worldly possessions (including an antique desk) crammed in the back and STILL gotten 34 mpg. Ill drive it until the wheels fall off, unless I need something with four doors.
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Great car! - 2004 Acura RSX
By anhdao - December 6 - 6:01 pmI loved everything about this car. I wish I still owned it.
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Daily driver for 10 years - 2002 Acura RSX
By oaklandfan78 - October 31 - 12:48 amMy RSX has gone through a lot over the past 10 years and put on over 145K miles but its still running strong. Its been through quite a lot. Among the highlights were how many times, it flawlessly handled the California drive from LA to SF. At one point, it also became my utility vehicle and the fold-down seats spent many weekends lugging around DJ equipment. It now serves as my daily commuter with good gas mileage and still evokes a strong feeling of excitement when I get on the road each morning. Hopefully I can make it to 200K one day.
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Love this car! - 2004 Acura RSX
By anhdao - June 6 - 6:05 pmI owned this car for 8 years and loved it. Such a great value for a car with all of the main luxury items you would want. I never had any major mechanical problems and always had fun driving this even though it was a stick and I lived in LA. Had to trade it in for a more family friendly car last year, but still miss driving it!
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[violative content deleted] - 2006 Acura RSX
By dilbones - November 21 - 6:28 amI bought the car for 3000 dollars less than the Blue Book value from a dealership in the Philadelphia Area. It came with 70,000 miles and it was in wonderful condition. The exterior flows-- its designed so well and it looks so sexy! Its so smooth. By the way, mines red. ) I like simplistic interiors similar to that of the 98 Hondas. My family has owned four generations of Accords, and I love the older looking interiors. This cars interior is simplistic, yet futuristic, and thats why I love it. The slip angle at all four corners of the car was designed perfectly, and with MacPherson Struts, I was surprised at how perfectly this car corners. Fast, sexy, and reliable. 5 stars
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Used Acura - 2005 Acura RSX
By robertbaseball - September 8 - 12:50 amSo im a new driver and i just bought a 2005 AcuraRSX as my first car. Ive driven other cars and the engine noise isent so loud. Is it just my car or is it just a noisy car? Other than that i love it! Leather seats but very sporty bucket seats. Interior is a little plain but has plenty of room to add an indash navigation system which will do soon. Plenty of horse power even in the non S type. Great car!!
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Ill drive it till it dies - 2003 Acura RSX
By angz415 - July 12 - 12:57 pmI am the third owner of my 2003 RSX Type-S and I cant say enough postivie feedback about it. Im currently at 170,000 miles and the only major repair that Ive had to do is replace the clutch (which was more expensive because of the clutchs location and the man hours required to get to it). This car drives so well. Not only is it fast and fun, but the front wheel drive make it easy to contol in rain and snow (just so long as your have some ground clearance). I also love the hatchback feature. The seats in the back fold down and you can store a lot in there.
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Best Sport Compact Car in its Class - 2003 Acura RSX
By JayJayPG - November 18 - 2:00 amIve owned my 03 Type S for over 6 years and will most likely be keeping this car for another 6+ years. It really is the best all around FWD sport compact car out there. I always get complements on its appearance due to the A-Spec package mine was installed with from the factory (body kit, rear wing, aluminum shift knob, sport suspension, 17" wheels). I have never had a major mechanical problem with this car and it still drives like it did 6 years/50,000 miles ago. The only issue I have ever had with my RSX- S is a squeaky/notchy clutch pedal (which is easily remedied by spraying white lithium grease on the master cylinder pushrod).
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Great Car - 2006 Acura RSX
By Brian - October 2 - 2:00 amGreat car in every way, very fun to drive, some road noise but its still a sports car so whatever. No problems since i bought it, car has 20k more miles and runs like the day it came out of the factory.
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Awesome Car - 2005 Acura RSX
By CaliPatriot88 - July 20 - 11:24 pmI drove the Honda Integra when I was in Japan and loved it so much I bought the USDM version the RSX. I couldnt afford the type s though so I bought the luxury base model. A great car fast and nimble on the highway, it loves going fast and loves taking corners. Great on gas, run on premium and youll get some faster acceleration out of it.
