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 1 through 10 of 112.00
  • So far its been amazing - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    I bought this car about a month ago with only 84,000 miles on it. For being almost 10 years old, I thought that was pretty good. I have always loved this kind of car and ended up finding one when I wasnt even looking. After the first test drive i fell in love. The 6 speed is amazing and so much fun to drive. It has the perfect amount of power for me and it handles great. I was worried about the mpg because before this car I had a corolla and got excellent gas mileage. I go to college in a big city so I figured that would lower my mpg but Im getting an average of 29.5 which I thought was good. So far I have had no problems and hope it stays that way so i can keep this car for a long time.

  • Bought it brand new. Amazing Car - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    Bought it off the lot in 2005. Have had it for 193000 miles. The only thing Ive had to replace is the rear calipers which siezed up at 150,000 miles. Still have the original clutch. No other repair costs. And I drive this thing HARD... Brakes last, tires last, amazing gas mileage. 5 spd manual is fun, 160 hp engine could be a bit beefier. Type S isnt that much faster and requires premium. Friend has type s, He barely accelerates faster up to 60 mph. From 60+ the Type S really accelerates better. Handles amazing! Take turns fast with confidence and ease. Steering is responsive

  • Fun little car - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    This was my first car ever and I enjoyed the heck out of it. It was vivid blue pearl and I had the type-s so the wheels looked amazing as well. The car was definitely a head turner and everyone seemed to like, people would let me thru in traffic (this doesnt happen in something like a bimmer). It is a Honda so it is reliable as the universe and I had it serviced at Honda (since no Acura dealership was built near me at the time) and I got Honda prices, but Acura prices arent that bad actually for a luxury car. It isnt as fast as youd expect a 210 hp car to be. The problem is you have to wind it up to 6500 rpm to get it going and theres very little torque. But a fun drive nevertheless

  • Used Acura - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    So 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!!

  • Great fun car, but with unfortunate drawback - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    This car is really fun to drive, especially stick. I found it to be underpowered however and always had to work for torque since it peaks so low and at high rpms. However, once you learn to time everything correctly it becomes a joy to drive. I had problems with my transmission (which are common). The gear gear kept popping out and if you tried to keep it in there it would grind. The second gear was about to go in my car (but if you read the crsx forums, youll find tonnes of owners have second gear grind. These things really begin to take a toll after some time and destroy the enjoyment of the drive. Otherwise, great built quality - clutch will last and last, and is also very light.

  • Awesome Car - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    I 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.

  • Put fun to your commute - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    Easy to drive, fun, and economical. All extras included. Good reliable car and an excelent dealer behind their product.

  • Resilient Coupe - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    This is my 2nd Type S & still impressed. With the hp bumped up to 210, it performs very well. Turn-ratio & handling are great. For a high torque coupe, it still gets good mpg, but it does require premium unleaded. Like other owners say, the ride can be extremely stiff so watch bumps in the road very carefully, seriously. I like how Acura upgraded the wheels to 17s, but wish they kept the original headlights, since thats what initially caught my eye. Interior hasnt changed, still sleek. The fold-over rear seats are a huge plus, but rear seating is narrow. As long as required maintenance is done (which is HIGHLY recommended), itll be faithful. Definitely reliable, fun, & a great value.

  • I am smiling again - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    I have been driving Acura’s for the past 25 years. I had a 91 & 99 Integra GSRs and must say these cars for the money were the best all around. Stepped up to a couple of TLs and was quite disappointed with the Acura Brand as I questioned build quality. Decided to give the brand one more chance by purchasing used 05 RSX Type-s. This car as I recalled from the past has a solid build quality with lots of fun factor. Mechanically sound with no problems, excellent gas mileage and a NATURALLY aspirated 210 hp engine. Six speed gear shift is remarkable even with 161K miles.

  • Bang for buck - 2005 Acura RSX
    By -

    This car is one of the best cars I have ever owned. Fast, fuel efficient, quiet, comfortable, and long lasting. 210 hp in a car that weighs under 3000 lbs. 6 speed tranny good for lower rpms at 80 mph, or higher top speed. Governor kicks in at 145. Worlds fastest front wheel drive NA car. And under 20k. Would love them to continue production. :-( they never should have stopped

Acura RSX Reviews By Year:
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