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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  Best car in this price range you can get - 2004 Acura RSX
  By SiR-DC5 - April 3 - 2:00 am

  I had a 3rd gen Integra before this RSX Type S. The first thing I noticed on this RSX-S is that Acura addressed every complaints I have on the Integra and made some more improvements on top it. It has enough power to get around or to pass on highway. And it comes with great standard features. I couldnt find a car that has better value, performance, reliability, and features at this price range.

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  Heidi - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Heidi Ignacio - April 2 - 10:00 am

  I have had my RSX-S for a week now - my previous car was an Acura Integra GSX. I think the RSX was made to perfection and lives up to the Acura name for dependability, accuracy and reliabity. The overall handling is stable and so percise. I was happy with my 99 Integra, but felt it needed perfecting - since it drove and sounded like a sports car. Now my RSX-S not only gives me a quiet ride, it is also smoother and more comfortable. My compliments to the engineer for developing a magnificent vechicle!

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  Fun to drive, high revving car. - 2003 Acura RSX
  By bpayne - March 28 - 11:45 am

  Another great car I have owned. This car has a sporty look to it with the optional A-spec package offered by the acura dealership which includes spoiler, lip kit and upgraded suspension rims and tires.

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  type s - 2002 Acura RSX
  By lschmieg - March 27 - 10:00 am

  The car is everything we thought it would be. good performance, nice looks, good fuel econmy(avg. 25 mpg in mixed driving). The negatives are not huge but are annoying, doors do not lock automatically, seat belt is always in the way when closing the door and bangs against door pillar when you take it off. Needs power seat to make it easier getting in after my wife drives it and has the seat all the way forward,

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  Awesome car!! - 2006 Acura RSX
  By stanley_eisan - March 25 - 9:06 am

  Great looking fast car for a great price. That v-tech motor is simply awesome and 31 highway miles, cant beat that either.

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  Great for my tastes - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Jared - March 22 - 7:40 pm

  Certainly a big step up from a 97 Explorer. Sporty feel in the suspension and more than enough power get off the line. Hardly any disappointments, except: no automatic headlamps, poor sound system, and sometimes the automatic doesnt respond after slowing below 20 mph. As for the lights, my explorer had them, so why not this? As for the sound system, there is no stock system that could ever compare to a decent after market system and as for the throttle response, if it were a huge issue I would have gotten a manual transmission. As I said for the money, I dont think you could find a better car.

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  Best bang for the buck - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Dmitry - February 20 - 1:23 am

  This is a great car indeed. Its fast, reliable and comfortable as well. Plus it responds great to aftermarket mods such as intake/exhaust/headers. Acura has won me over with the RSX-S. Dima proud owner of a Satin Silver RSX-S with Injen intake, Borla exhaust and Neuspeed short shifter.

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  The Best Car Out There!!!! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Kristin - February 17 - 10:00 am

  I just got my Acura RSX and it was the best investment i ever made! After a lot of research, i found this car to be, by far, the best! Its sporty and economical. i would recommend this car to anybody!

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  Reliable but rattles are annoying - 2003 Acura RSX
  By SFarchie - February 12 - 1:08 am

  This is a great car for young people under the age of 30. Older than that you probably would want more comfort and luxury. The car has never failed to start up or have had any mechanical issues. Handles beautifully. Now the bad stuff: the car rattles around the dash and hatch considerably. Multiple visits to the dealership did not rectify this problem. Also, I do not get very good gas mileage. Approx. 25 mpg overall. Another complaint is the cheap leather seating and easy to scratch up interior plastic trimmings. Oh yeah, and the car is loud (tire noise) when driven on the highway.

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  Very nice car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By tbatey - February 10 - 1:40 am

  Performance is great for a 4-cylinder, comfort, features, and amenities are above average for this type of vehicle and price range. Gas mileage is great during regular driving, still good when having fun. Very fun car to drive with a beautiful engine/exhaust sound. Quality of build is very good, but not great.