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 car!!! - 2002 Acura RSX
By T-o-t-o - June 26 - 10:00 amGreat car! Love it!
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Outstanding - 2003 Acura RSX
By Geo - June 14 - 9:36 amGreat car. It has fuel efficiency and its amazing to drive. I have owned it for 4 years now and I wouldnt change a thing.
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Great car - 2003 Acura RSX
By Jools109 - June 14 - 2:00 amI switched from lifelong ownership of GM vehicles to the foreign market just for a change of pace. I dont believe I will be going back ever again. I have never been more pleased with a car, its value, or the general ownership experience ever.
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Type S - Happy So Far - 2003 Acura RSX
By RobE - June 8 - 10:00 amPrevious car was a 99 Integra GSR, and this car is a huge improvement. Really feels and drives like a sports car in comparison to the GSR. Test drove the Celica GTS and GTI VR6 - both nice cars, but I think I made the right choice and every review Ive read confirms that.
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Good car, bad people - 2004 Acura RSX
By IDriveALemon - May 22 - 2:00 amI have never been to such horrible dealerships in my life. The people are just horrible, they dont care about the customer, they are willing to say just about anything just to be able to deny (warranty on) your claim on problems and issues with the car. The warranty as far as Im concerned is completely irrevelent, since they dont car to abide by it. If you want a car without a warranty, this is the car. But you might as well buy it used for that matter.
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Type-S - 2004 Acura RSX
By Unicode2021 - May 16 - 2:00 amI have the vehicle for over a year now and its the best sports coupe that I have ever hade...VERY FUN to drive and very modifyable.
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My favorite car so far - 2006 Acura RSX
By Benjamin - April 27 - 2:52 pmI absolutely love this car. I love the handling, I love the suspension, I love the looks, but one thing this car lacks is power - the base models measly 155 hp just isnt cutting it. Otherwise the car is great. Better gas mileage and more comfortable seats could help (my backside hurts after long road trips).
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Fun but needs something - 2004 Acura RSX
By GD - April 26 - 2:14 amForgetting the fact that this car is no longer being made (poor Integra) It is a fun car day to day. The only thing is that for the money you can get a LOT more bang for your buck. If you are a die hard Honda fan you will forget the fact that the car has no torque and gets tiring to drive when revving to 8100 to stay in vtec after every shift. I bought the car on a whim but wish I would have looked at a WRX. Good reliable car but really overpriced and underpowered. Honda needs to step it up with a boosted car or they will be left behind. Also dont plan on carrying anyone in the car, the extra weight and lack of torque kills any hope of accelerating.
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2006 Acura RSX - 2006 Acura RSX
By jules88 - April 23 - 10:55 pmIve had this car for a little more than half a year and I love it. Its fun to drive, it looks hot, and has great acceleration. I wish I got it manual, though, and in black (too hot in miami). It is a bit expensive, but it has great resale value, so Im not complaining. I love that its small and compact. And I love how guys wanna race me but then when they see Im a girl, go away. =P Leather is comfy and remains so even after 5 hours of driving. I changed my rearview mirror ... its a lot wider and I can see EVERYTHING.
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Love This Car - 2006 Acura RSX
By Jess2112 - April 12 - 7:16 pmThis is a great car to have. I drive it all the time just to drive it. Its quick and very responsive. Nothing in the car is less appealing now than it was when I bought it, i.e., leather is still in great condition, etc. This is by far my favorite car.
