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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  Good car for price - 2003 Acura RSX
  By unagidon - September 2 - 10:00 am

  Owned car for approx. 1 month now. Love driving it. Very fun, and more powerful than I originally expected. Dont compare this car to a Porsche or M3 or something silly like that... Its a fun to drive, everyday vehicle that gives great gas mileage, and has fantastic build quality measuring up to much more expensive automobiles.

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  Safety - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Joe Millhouse - August 20 - 8:55 am

  One of the most fun vehicles to drive. Bought new from dealership in February 07. Excellent gas mileage, 90 percent highway miles. I recently walked away from a very serious accident with only 2 minor scratches. The safety features in this car saved my life. Wish this car was still being produced, would buy again without hesitation.

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  RSX-S vs EVO vs WRX - 2004 Acura RSX
  By JDMDC5-S - August 15 - 2:00 am

  Great and awesome car all around. Perfect between performance and drivability. Has potential to be a pretty fast car. But not as much potential compared to WRX or Evo. This is not the car if you want to be extremely fast. This car is a balance between performance and luxury. Interior is very nice. Looks are awesome compared to WRX. This car will be hard to compete with cars like Evo and WRX STi since this car is afterall FWD. Overall I love this car and is a great all around vehicle. Bose system is kind of lacking. But other than that I have no real complaints. Perfect balance between performance and drivability.

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  57K miles and still love it - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Vince - August 12 - 10:32 pm

  This car does nothing great, but does everything well. It has enough power to be useable in daily driving, yet it feels like a different car when VTEC kicks in around 6K RPM. Stock it handles well enough, but go aftermarket for serious handling. The interior is good. Nothing in this car requires the owners manual. Honda has perfected user-friendly interiors. When driven reasonably, Ive averaged 34-36 MPG consistently. The chassis has developed some rattles, mainly when the temps are cold. Other than that, the chassis is solid. I had 2nd gear grinds earlier on, but it now only happens when extremely cold. Overall, I love this car and I think its a great car for the young professional.

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  RSX w/leather - 2004 Acura RSX
  By JohnnyH - August 10 - 10:00 am

  Great car. Fun to drive and 165hp is more than enough. Can keep up with 200hp cars easily. Great deal too for all the amenities you get.

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  Excellent car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By indiglo - August 9 - 2:13 am

  Great all around car

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  Great but............... - 2002 Acura RSX
  By The Car Doctor - August 8 - 10:00 am

  The praises of this car can easily be seen in the other reviews and magazines. All in all its a tremendous car. My focus is on how to improve the car. 1-The passenger side leg room is awkward. Its difficult to relax your feet in a comfortable position. 2- Odometer/tripometer need separate displays instead of having to press the button. 3-Alloy wheels could use a little thicker (if any) clear coat finish. 4-Rear seats are pretty flat, unlike front seat. 5-Rear window wash dispenser just trickles water instead a spraying nicely. 6-One touch buttons for roof and passenger window would be very helpful.

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  Sporty and fun - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Joni - August 3 - 1:49 pm

  This was my first Acura and probably not the last. The car has awesome acceleration, great handling and is very fun to drive overall. Decent gas mileage, lots of looks, six speeds and the classic tell tale headlights (I like the 02-04 look better than the later 05-06 models). The third gear does grind from time to time. You really have to carefully place the gear to avoid it. Also this car is incredibly connected to the road. You hear and feel every little bump... a good thing if youre driving a sportier car, but tiresome if its also your daily driver. Finally the insurance on this car is outrageous.

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  Fabulous starter into the luxury world - 2003 Acura RSX
  By LP - July 24 - 9:05 pm

  This car is a luxury car at a great deal. Acura has a great reputation for quality, as they are made by Honda. This car is no exception. Its fun to drive and handles wonderfully. Great standard features that would normally have to be added for an extra price, come standard.

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  From a Civic to a RSX........a big step! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By PR Jones - July 22 - 10:00 am

  I have been owner of sedans all my life, I felt I need a little excitement in my life, believe me I got more than I deserve, the RSX is great!!