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:

• 

  RSX-S is a Fun Car ! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By David... - December 25 - 2:00 am

  Just got one on 29 March, and am almost at the 600 mile break-in. Originally, I planned to buy via a discount buying service (CostCo), but ended up with a much better price from the local salesman; this was a surprisingly good experience. RSX-S is a fun car to drive! Handling and performance are wonderful; the engine is very responsive, especially (but not only) beyond 6000 RPM. The 6-speed manual transmission is great -- very smooth! Especially fun on winding, two-lane roads, where it passes slower logging trucks & RVs quickly and safely. Its also relatively fun (& quiet) on freeways -- certainly more solid and quieter than my 94 Integra.

• 

  Zoooooooooooommmmmm!!!!!!!!!!! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Ghost Rider - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Just take one for a test drive. It handles awesome and is a huge improvement over the Integra it replaced. Sporty fun!

• 

  Awesome Sports Coupe - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Steve6 - December 15 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my car for more than five months now, and I love it. The car rides well, gas mileage is great, and the car looks sporty. I dont understand how some people say that the RSX is an "upgraded" Civic. The car makes the Civic look like cheap piece of junk. One thing to mention is the cloth seats are suede-like and thus, are more comfortable and feel more sophisticated that most cloth.

• 

  5 years and no regrets - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Rich - December 14 - 5:32 pm

  I bought my RSX right after I graduated from college. It was essentially a present to myself for securing a decent paying job. Five years later, I still absolutely love my car and wouldnt trade it with anyone. Ill probably have it for at least another 5 years. The cost of ownership is insanely low in five years Ive only replaced the tires and brakes. With 3-4 oil changes per year, my car has treated me right.

• 

  Awe inspiring - 2003 Acura RSX
  By bauhaus - December 2 - 2:00 am

  Although I have only owned this remarkable little rocket for 3 days and 250 miles, it is far and away the most complete car I have driven. The feel of all the controls is crisp and clean, no slop here. The engine, although loud at higher RPMs is quick, reponsive and silky smooth. The clutch, shifter and transmission combination is flawless. The handling is responsive, tight and nimble. Point it where you want to go and there is no hesitation or arguments. Readers of this review should take a look at Car and Drivers "Four wedges and a Bubble" comparrison review.

• 

  Overall, a great little car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Vince - November 30 - 7:26 am

  For those reviewers complaining about the lack of luxury features, realize what kind of car this is supposed to be. This was Acuras entry level car, not their flagship. About the tranny, I know many other sport compacts that have the same tranny issues. After 3 years, I still love this car. In stock form, its pretty bland, but Ive taken care of that. Performance is so so if you dont hit the hot cam, but handling is above average. The rear can get pretty nervous when the roads get rough. This is NOT a long haul vehicle and not the greatest for city and/or bumper to bumper. The stock stereo is pretty weak. If u dont go crazy, 34 MPG is easily attainable. Overall, this is a good car.

• 

  2002 Acura RSX Type S - 2002 Acura RSX
  By JohhnyW - November 20 - 8:27 am

  Overall Im happy with the car. My first car was an Integra, then I drove a Pathfinder and Im happy to be back in a two door coupe. That said, the Type S isnt as good on gas as Id hoped and its downright treacherous in the snow. Snow tires are needed on this car. My only other real complaint is that it doesnt reach a decent speed until you rev the heck out of it, but thats the V-Tech way. Oh ya, the V-tech chip fried a month after I bought it (I bought an 02 in 06). I love the red interior lighting, the short stick and the six speeds, although at times it seems like Im shifting way too much. Acura really just packed six speeds into 200 HP here as a gimmick, but it can be a fun one.

• 

  I love my car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By peekaboop - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Great pickup off the line Very responsive steering and brakes

• 

  First Step Up - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Walkman - November 15 - 2:00 am

  When the RSX first came out I was peaked. I looked and pondered as to paying 20K+ for something not much different than my Civic. When I got the oppourtunity, I steped up and havent been one bit dissapointed. I did not expect Space Shuttle Gadgetry and Ferrari performance but what the car really had to offer is a Real Bang for the buck. I dont regret it one bit.

• 

  How RSX is a car YOU want - 2002 Acura RSX
  By cdznutz - November 7 - 10:00 am

  This car is the ultimate sports coupe at this price range. This car is very fun to drive! The acceleration is unbelievable and it is extremely powerful; it dominates on the road. Many heads will turn when you drive this car. The interior is beautifully designed and the bose sound system is very rich sounding. I heard some nasty things about the Acura dealers, but the dealership i went to was great. Bottom line: This is the best car you can get at this price range.