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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  Dont buy this car - 2006 Acura RSX
  By masterbulk - August 20 - 9:30 am

  Strut noise will haunt you. It would be the most embarrassing new car you would ever own. The noise started 3 months after I got the car (3700 miles. They kept saying they are working on a permanent fix. Its Aug as of this review date. NO FIX!!!! Worst part. The dealer refused to replace the struts several times. I had to go to another dealer to have my struts replaced. But they say the noise will come back. I guess we just have to replace the struts every 15000 miles

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  Fast Junk - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Time 4 a change - July 7 - 11:22 am

  I had a 2002 RSX base that I loved. Then got hit by a red light runner which wasted the car. I went out and bought a 2005 Type S thinking it would be even bette. WRONG! This thing is junk. Ive had it in the shop more times that I can remember. The struts have been fixed/replaced at least 5 or 6 times, the moonroof stopped sealing and had to be replaced, I have numerous rattles in the dash and doors. All this started at 750 miles and it now has 10,000 and is still going. Ive had to file a lemon law claim as one deal just stopped returning my calls. I have well over 40 days of shop time and I can say that the TL is junk too since Ive had it as a loaner car all this time too.

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  Be Forewarned - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Used to Love Acura - May 14 - 10:00 am

  I loved my 1996 Integra. It was comfortable, zippy, and most of all a dependable quality car. I purchased an RSX TypeS to replace the Integra expecting the same quality. Dont assume the Acura name guarantees quality. I know the TypeS suspension is tighter than the Integra, but there is no excuse for the terribly rough ride. Plus, the interior rattles and squeaks override any joy received from driving the sharp little fun car. I have had the struts replaced and three trips to the shop to quiet the rattles. Just been told I need to tear out the transmission to replace gear sensors. Not the best experience for a car I have had a mere six months!

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  Strut issues - 2006 Acura RSX
  By JB - April 26 - 5:08 pm

  I bought this car and traded it in 6 months later (last weekend). The struts make noise. Had the right one replaced, then shortly after the left one started making noise, however the dealership wouldnt fix it, saying that Acura is developing a permanent fix. This was back in January. The car was also broken into via UNFORCED ENTRY. Why even have an alarm? I bought an Accord Coupe EX with V6 and couldnt be happier. I expected more from Acura, but didnt get it.

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  NOT an Integra - 2003 Acura RSX
  By 62" - April 7 - 2:00 am

  After owning an Integra for a while I can tell you that this car misses the mark.The shifter clunks into second gear (all others are good)the seats are fair at best and the ride/road noise/sound system are all poor.There is a HUGE gap in power between 3000 and 5000 RPM. I should have bought another Integra.

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  Please Fixed it!! - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Nameless - February 24 - 3:20 am

  Guys, Dun get this car if u are considering.. because you and your car will spend most of the time in the dealership. The car has a strut problem and never going to be fixed. And you probably heard rattle noise when driving on bumpy roads. The tires skid when accelerate... so.... Think again when buying RSX and RSX-S

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  Lemons, but no Lemonade - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Unhappy - October 19 - 12:38 am

  I got a lemon. So far the dealer hasnt been the least bit helpful with helping me. Its had a new transmission, 3 batteries, a new alternator and now theyre telling me Im having axle problems!! Its a cute car, but its time to get something that wont break down on me five times in half a year!

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  I Made A Mistake - 2003 Acura RSX
  By whipsaw - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I thought I had bought a very good performance car for a nice price, but about 3 weeks after I bought the Type S my buddy bought a Subaru WRX and he let me drive it. I have not been able to enjoy my car since. Ugh! The WRX is so much quicker, so much more fun to drive, and its AWD. And its the same price! Also, he had the wagon model WRX and you can haul a ton of stuff in it, as well as haul a$$. Dont get me wrong, I still "like" my car, and the interior of the acura is better than WRX. But ultimately Id give up the leather seats, for the extra horsepower, quickness, and safety features and comfort of the AWD.

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  Putting the POCKET in Pocket Rocket - 2002 Acura RSX
  By newege - December 24 - 10:00 am

  After seeing one on the street the tastefully assertive exterior got me to the dealership. The wonderfully designed dash and the number of features for the money got me convinced to make the purchase. Now I will spend the next 3 years with regular trips to the chiropractor because I keep banging my head on the roof with every bounce. Its fun to go fast but the buzzing motor cycle sound is embarrassing! WHAT WAS I THINKING!!! Anybody want to buy mine?

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  Worst car Ive bought - 2004 Acura RSX
  By turboGSRChick - May 31 - 2:00 am

  I bought my RSX Type-S thinking that it would be a newer version of my 92 Acura Integra GS-R. I was sorely dissapointed. Despite having a bigger engine (2.0L vs the 1.7 in my GS-R) this car feels slow and sluggish. Between 3000 and 6000RPM the car falls flat on its @ss. The suspension isnt as tight and the car has a lot of body lean if you push it in corners. The gas mileage is HORRIBLE, 20-25mpg. My moms Mitsu Outlander does better than that. Oh, and my 6-speed manual has been grinding 2nd and 3rd gears since I bought it. I had it rebuilt once already to no avail. DO NOT BUY ONE!!!!!