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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  Great First Car! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By RSX_Fan - April 14 - 2:00 am

  I test drove this car after I test drove a 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT. The RSX was $2,000 less and overall a much better car. I bought it in a rush and couldnt be happier. I drove it from Indianapolis to Las Vegas 2 days after buying it and driving had never been so fun. Dont have to downshift out of 5th gear to pass, so even with 160 hp it has power to spare. A definate recommendation to anybody who wants a sporty 2-door thats affordable.

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  Great Car - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Brandon - April 11 - 8:26 pm

  The RSX type S is a great all around car. The exterior looks awesome. Engine is great. Has plenty of power in the top end. The midrange suffers. Interior design is nice. Its a simple design, but I still like it. Sound system is great. I wouldnt change anything about it. Transmission is one of the best Ive driven. Throws are quick and light. Great feel. Pedals are good for heel-toeing. Brakes are nice and strong. Seats are awful. They support you well but will hurt you after about an hour. This car feels nice and solid, is pretty fun to drive. Plenty of interior storage space. Hatch has plenty of room for luggage and other junk.

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  Good, but not all that! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Dex - April 9 - 10:00 am

  The car is well built but as a performance car it falls short. The handling is above average, the shifter is phenomenal, but the power/torque just isnt there. Having nearly an 8000 RPM redline is great if it would just pull strongly to it. The engine revs so freely that it makes you feel like you should be going faster than you are. The ergonomics are great except for the speedometer; it needs to be in 10 MPH increments instead of 20. And how they built a car at this price without a center armrest is beyond me. Overall its not bad but I should have looked harder at a Mazda 6 or Toyota Celica.

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  Exciting Car!!! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Steven Ang - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Ive been wanting this car for a while now and I finally purchased it and love it. I paid BELOW INVOICE for this car so future buyers out there, try to work the dealers a little bit. I must say, its a very fun car to drive and handle. Well worth the price for the car and all the options that come with it.

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  Great car! - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Nev - March 23 - 2:00 am

  I am very happy with my RSX. It represents a great combination of performance, comfort and reliability. It is very happy pottering around town but also gives an exciting drive if you open it up and push the revs up near the 8000 limit. The only slight citicism I have is that it does feel a bit "front-end heavy" and has the typical front-wheel drive understeer that was less apparent in the Honda Prelude I had before. Having said that the manual six-speed transmission is excellent and the steering is pin-sharp with good road feel. Overall definitely a winner and I have no regrets.

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  Awesome car! - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Tomcat01 - March 22 - 7:27 pm

  I have been driving this car every day for about months and havent had to take it to get worked on once. While having a good amount of power you get good fuel mileage, cant beat that.The baking power is amazing the car will stop on a dime The RSX holds its value witch is good. This is my first car and I feel i made the right choice.

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  Awesome ride - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Trekblue98 - March 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought the RSX about a week ago and I am very shocked. The car accelerates fast but yet I get 35 mpg. It takes awhile to get use of the firm seats. The car turns very well and stops on a dime. I love the red dashboard lights.

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  Never Buy First Year Car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By joe249 - March 9 - 10:00 am

  My radio makes a electrical click when turned on. The relay swich under glove box clicks twice when you turn on ignition.The brake pedal is soft and I only have 4400 miles on it. You step on brake pedal and you get an electrical switch click also.

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  Heres the skinny... - 2002 Acura RSX
  By pocket - March 9 - 10:00 am

  Excellent overall. I choose the base model since the difference in performance was was not of great importance to me (.7 sec faster for type-s 0-60 and 1/4 mile) Handling is particularly admirable. I had a 3- series BMW before this.. and this car handles every bit as good. If you want to smoke people while drag racing, get a WRX. If you want a classy car at a great price, the RSX is fantastic. Great value for the dollar.

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  Great is not perfection - 2005 Acura RSX
  By laurent reze - March 5 - 9:30 am

  Its a super little car. So far very reliable IF you do not mind stiff shifting, average comfort, noises from everywhere and especially from engine over 3500 rpm. Its a small sport car for road and speed lovers!