2005 Acura RSX Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.78/5 Average
112 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2005, the RSX receives a number of changes. Horsepower for the Type-S is bumped up to 210, thanks to new high-performance camshafts, a larger intake duct, large diameter exhaust pipe and a high-flow catalytic converter. The six-speed transmission on the Type-S gets a lower final drive ratio and carbon synchronizers (instead of brass) on fifth and sixth gears for a smoother shift feel. Suspension upgrades on all models include a 7mm lower ride height, revised stabilizer bars and inversely wound springs. The steering and braking systems have been refined for better feel and response, and the Type-S gets a larger diameter front strut tower brace and 17-inch wheels. Front and rear fascias have also been redesigned, along with the side sills, grille, headlamps and taillamps. The Type-S gets a rear spoiler, as well. Inside, you'll find new deeply bolstered seats with thicker cushioning and new trim accents. Overall body rigidity has increased by 15 percent in front and 21 percent in the rear.

Pros:
  • High-revving Type-S engine, nimble handling, sharp steering, clean interior design, plenty of standard equipment.
Cons:
  • Modest torque output, tight rear-seat headroom, forgettable exterior design.

User Reviews:

Showing 81 through 90 of 112.00
  • Great little sports car for little money - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    I just bought my brand new 05 RSX, and I love it. I traded a 01 VW Jetta and I love the RSX so much more in its handling and styling. This little car handles great, has good build quality, and loves to be pushed with little fuss

  • A+++ - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    great capability of modification engine power at 275na

  • great car - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    Great all around car. Fun to drive!!

  • I love this car - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    I absolutely love my RSX Type-S. Whether Im driving to the supermarket or across the state it is the one of best cars I have ever driven.

  • Good but can offer more - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    A great car. Powerful, fantastic handling and unbelievable gas mileage (30+). Ther could be more offered with this special car like heated seats, etc. Even the A-Spec package is not yet available. Cant wait!

  • 05 purchase - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    Ive been extremely happy with my 05 rsx type-s. The car is very refined, has more than adequate performance for a regularly aspirated 2 litre 4 cyl, reasonably comfortable for a performance sports coupe and has great fuel economy to boot. I waited for the 05s to come out as I wasnt thrilled that the 04s still had 16" wheels and a little too much road noise. The changes for 05, although relatively minor, were enough for me to forgo the 04.

  • This is IT! - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    I am absolutely THRILLED with my new RSX. I got the sporty type S. The 6 speed is incredibly smooth and easy to drive. This is my first manual transmission and Ive had no trouble. The engine is extremely powerful producing over 100 hp per liter (a very impressive engineering feat). Leather recaro seats are awesome. 6 disk bose cd system is very nice. Power at 5500 rpms all the way up to the 8000 rpm redline is astounding for an engine this small. Will outrun pre 99 mustang GTs and runs nearly neck and neck with the pre 05 mustangs. Not bad considering they have an engine HALF the size of the ponycars! This car is a dream for the budget minded driving enthusiast!

  • Great Little Car! - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    Perhaps the best small car I have owned! Built tight, like a little watch. Performance, handling, steering, visibility, power, quality, Honda put it all together on this one. A blast to drive. Goes exactly where you point it. Accelerates good just running up to 6000 rpm, but then youve got 2000 more on top of that!

  • Better than most of its competitors. - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    This car will definitely blow most competitors doors off, especially in the price-to-equipment ratio. A similarly equipped Toyota Celica GT-S will cost you $4000 more and still be outrun by the Type-S. New for 05, this car now pumps out 210hp, without any turbo. Torque is broad across all RPM ranges the Celicas narrow powerband was disconcerting, especially during passing. Performance, good fuel mileage (24/31), and reliability are this cars strong points. Keep in mind, though, this car requires premium fuel, but thats a small price to pay for such a performer.

  • Love the car but Acura is good at hiding - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    The 2005 has Tranny issues just like the last ones... They didnt redesign the 5th and 6th syncro to be smoother... the truth is they had and still have poorly designed syncros.. my 2002 had a 2nd gear grind... they replaced it with 2005 carbon syncros... it eliminated the grind in 2nd now 3rd and 4th have a grind.... 3rd will not go into gear sometimes... and you think it is but then it pops out and grind! I have talked to Hendrick mechanics and all the 2005s have the same problem with 3.... they all tell you to wait and push the clutch in all the way.. but that shouldnt be the way it is... its a great car otherwise . no other problems... Acura needs to step up to the plate!

Acura RSX Reviews By Year:
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