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+ for the Automatic RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By eyrelle - October 27 - 1:00 am

  Sports car purists should stick to the manual. But for the daily commuter the steptronic automatic transmission offers all the fun of a manual with no clutch. I purchased it becuase I spend hours in stop and go traffic. Other convincing features include Acuras luxury interior, loads of standard features, good value and excellent quality.

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  a real sports car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By armo - October 15 - 10:00 am

  I love my type-S. This car is not for everybody. Its engine is buzzy, the suspension is stiff, and the gear ratios are very close. This is a real sports car. The Bose system sounds great, I dont know why there are so many negative reviews about it. Interior controls are high quality, and it get great fuel economy (I get 28mpg combined). The best thing about my car is the engine and transmission combo. Cant beat the beautiful engine sound teamed with such a smooth and sporty 6 spd.

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  Pretty great! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By christineeee - October 11 - 5:39 pm

  Bought used, ended up paying more that I normally do for a used car, but still a great value. Car is excellent to drive, inside console seems to be made to mold around driver. Only thing I wish is that the seats were a little bit cushier, but all in all a great car!

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  this is the best damn car in the world!! - 2004 Acura RSX
  By shea.. - September 27 - 2:00 am

  i love this car!!!!!

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  whoa - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Tesser - September 27 - 2:00 am

  The Acura RSX is awesome. Really fun to drive, with great handling. Fun on sharp curves too...hehe

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  Great car - 2005 Acura RSX
  By lovetodrive7 - September 9 - 11:01 pm

  If you liked the prelude SI you will love this car. It builds upon and improves on everything that made the prelude (back in its day) fun and special to drive. Great handling in the mountains, fun to drive, and suitable as a daily driver. Engine and 6-spd transmission add to the enjoyment. Much more fun to drive than the Accord EX coupe.

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  Very good car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Roger - September 9 - 6:17 pm

  I bought this car summer of 04 brand new. Its a great car all around. Great handling, nice power and engine sounds. Only problem I had w/this car is 2nd gear goes in rough a lot and 3rd gear pops out sometimes. I took it to Acura 2 times and they cant find the problem.

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  Cant go wrong - 2003 Acura RSX
  By rstibbetts - September 7 - 9:35 pm

  I am now at about 60K miles and this car has been great. Reliable, cool look, great handling and acceleration, excellent mileage (never averaged less than 30 MPG) and not too expensive or refined, considering its an Acura. Gives me what I need at a reasonable price (at the time). Unfortunately Acura dropped this great little car. Cons: bad driver side blind spot, rattles in the dash (pronounced when the car is cold) and a rough ride with stock tires (improved with different tires). Back seat is tight, but what do you expect in a coupe? Probably the best vehicle I have owned.

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  Good value, but isnt holding up. - 2003 Acura RSX
  By avixe - September 7 - 2:00 am

  The S is a good car and would be ideal for someone who lives in a smoothly- paved area. Tight suspension makes for a fighter-jet ride at highway speeds, but unfortunately also invites a neck- snapping, spring-bottoming ride over anything less than perfect roads. Likewise, the engine makes fantastic, ferocious noises on highway on-ramps (and at red lights) but around town tends to attract attention unless kept under 3500rpm. The car handles just beautifully, and the level of standard equipment on the S has no equal. I see some have complained about the seats, but I find them both supportive and comfortable (make sure you use the lumbar adjustment!).

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  Loved it - 2002 Acura RSX
  By gunmetalalloys - September 5 - 1:52 pm

  Comfortable and well designed interior (except for cupholder placement in front of shifter, though Ive seen a lot worse). Beautiful inside/out. Had problem with shifting into 2nd, and everytime I had the dealer fix it the problem moved up a gear. Gave up when it got to 4th as ratios were tall enough it was rarely a problem anymore. Fairly neutral handling but beefened up rear sway bar made it better. Cold air intake helped power immensely for cheap, and engine torque dampener helped with traction. Good quality of materials and fit/finish except for the vinyl thigh support for seats. Loved the hatch - a very useful and fun car!