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 Decision Ive Ever Made in a Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By AcuraGirl - February 7 - 7:59 pm

  I have over 70,000 on my 2002 RSX and I loved driving every mile that is on it. The looks of the car are sleek, stylish, and so much fun! Even though my car is already 5 years old, it doesnt look it. I love the smooth shifting and the roomy trunk especially when the seats are down (I moved half of my dorm room with it!). The only problem I had was with the motor on the passenger door lock and with the passenger side airbag which they fixed right away. It handled excellent when a light pole fell in front of me on the freeway and I ran right over it without swerving an inch. I hit a semi-truck tire that blew out in front of me too and it didnt do very much damage to my car either.

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  Type-S = Satisfaction - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Speeder Ty - January 31 - 2:00 am

  Perfect for highway buzzing and a touch stiff in town on poor roads, (I just choose better routes). With only 6000K its just broken in but the power comes quicker than it did! We enjoy the sound system, dispite other reviews for sound , you can crank the volume over the engine noise. This one is a keeper.Keep the revs up for maximum pleasure.

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  I Love my RSX! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Chris Mr RSX - January 26 - 10:00 am

  The best car in its class. Its a joy everytime I get in my car. I love the leather and interior design, especially at night. whoo. this car blew me away. I was going to get the Type-S but the 5-speed felt better to me and its alot more drivable in city driving.

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  Tremendous Value - 2003 Acura RSX
  By RSXman - January 26 - 10:00 am

  Before purchasing this car, I drove and considered the following: Eclipse GT, Celica GT-S, Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic, Honda Accord Coupe, Pontiac Grand AM GT1. The Acura is so far above these other cars in every way, Im still amazed. The build quality is astounding, the materials used inside are very nice, not just cheap plastic. Buying experience very easy, there are no options other than useless crap you buy at the dealer, so finding the right one is easy. If youre looking for a car with NO compromises, this is the one. Very fast, handles extremely well, lacks no features, and still gets almost 30MPG in the city.

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  Best car of the year - 2006 Acura RSX
  By art - January 22 - 7:30 pm

  I think that this car is excellent and can be driven even by the unexperienced drivers. This car accelerates and handles great. I love it.

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  The best car Ive had!! - 2006 Acura RSX
  By jen - January 17 - 2:27 pm

  This is a car for those who want a luxury car for a good price. It handles really well in all conditons, I live where we have ice and snow on the roads and it has never let me down.

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  Noisy & Cheap! Never Again! - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Hardy - December 31 - 11:41 am

  The Acura RSX is the most overrated car in America. The car lacks any insulation resulting in road noise. You need a powerful stereo just to avoid hearing the road noise. That said, the stereo lacks any sounds quality. The "leather" seats are partially vinyl which crack very easily. The ignition lock is placed in the lowest part of the steering column. As a result, my legs hit the keys. The design of the door windows is really solid... not. When you roll up the windows, the side of the door moves. In short, the car has poor insulation, flimsy door windows, illogical ignition lock design, faux leather, and a front windshield that rattles. I will never buy an Acura again. Cheap car!

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  Take a look..... - 2002 Acura RSX
  By You_Cant_Go_Wrong - December 31 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a front-wheel drive car (I live in MI, SNOW!), decent gas milage, something I could have fun driving to work, but refined enough to take a girl on a date. Out of all these requests, I ended up with the RSX Type S. This car is shear "WOW!" Im a tall guy (64") and I fit comfortably in this car. I had one factory assembly issue with the steering wheel column cover. I just re-assembled it easily and all is fine. Other than that this car is exactly what everyone writes about it. I dont need an arm rest because I never take my hand off the shifter. I love driving and love this car!

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  Fantastic Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Jerome81 - December 28 - 6:00 pm

  The seats are probably the most comfortable and most supportive Ive ever experienced. The steering and shifting is top notch. The ergonomics are superb. The engine is a gem. The old Hondas lacked low end, but the i-VTEC motor really improves all around driveability. The car screams when pushed. The handling is very good. Though I feel the tires give. If this car had better rubber on the rims the driving experience would improve drastically. All in all a great car!

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  It is a rocket. - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Scoobysnax - December 27 - 8:53 pm

  I have had this car for less than a month, but it is the most fun I have ever had in a car.