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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  My 05 RSX-S - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Acuraman - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Bought my RSX on presidents day 2005. I have since put 40k miles on it, most of it drag racing at my local track. Its been down the 1/4 mile at least 150-200 times, pulling 1.9 60fts on Drag Radials and it never once complained one bit. Its as solid as the day I bought it, no squeaks, no rattles, no engine or transmission problems. When Im bored of the track, I take it to the canyons and fall in love with it all over again, hearing that engine sing to me at 8000+ rpms while snicking through that perfect gearbox is heaven. This is absolutely the best car Ive ever owned. ZERO PROBLEMS, rock solid reliability!!

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  Still Happy - 2004 Acura RSX
  By TP - September 27 - 11:18 am

  Ive had a 2004 Type-S for 33,000 miles. Im completeley happy with it and am only sad that 2006 is the end of the line for the great Integra-RSX. I owned an Integra previously and bought the RSX-Type-S because I like the engineering and the car gets exceptional mileage. Its a little noisy but so what? You have the CD player on anyway, and the Bose sound system is quite good. Better than the Integras Alpine. This is a gearheads car, and its a blast to drive. Too bad its easy to get tickets! It looks good, especialy in Milano Red, and is nicely put together and exceptionally reliable. Nice job Acura!

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  Great Car - 2006 Acura RSX
  By kbballers - September 26 - 11:13 am

  Pros: Fun to drive. Great handling. Good gas mileage. Looks good Cons: Stiff ride but it is the price you pay for good handling. Small backseat but that is how a sports car is.

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  Great Car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By bernuler - September 25 - 2:00 am

  I set out to buy a replacement for my 87 Integra, which itself had been a great car. Test drove MB C230K, Celica GT, & RSX-S but chose RSX as best overall for engineering, performance, ride, build quality, fuel economy and purchase value. I loved my 87 Integra, so naturally I make comparisions. The RSX weighs 400 lbs more, has a 25% larger engine and gets the same gas mileage (32 mpg average), amazing. The exterior stying is a plus but the interior shows some negatives relative to the Integra. In spite of the longer wheel base and body, access to and comfort in the rear seat is poor. Road noise is worse, I believe due to the cloth cover over the hatch area.

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  The Last Year RSX - 2006 Acura RSX
  By RR - September 6 - 9:24 pm

  This is a very cool looking and pleasure to driving Japanese coupe. The road noise is notified as a light weighted Japanese sporty car with a little harder struts system.

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  Excellent!! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By dendron - September 2 - 11:14 pm

  What a shame Acura has decided to discontinue this model beyond 2006! The RSX -- especially the Type-S -- is major bang for the buck. Grab one before theyre gone. I owned a 2002 Type-S, which I loved, until the refinements of the 2005-06 were introduced... then I had to trade. My 2005 is a noticeable improvement over the earlier varsion. A very nice blend of luxury, economy, and performance for under $25K. Several reviewers have complained about the rough ride. This is primarily due to the crappy Michelin touring (M+S) tires Acura shackles this car with from the factory. An upgrade to a set of oversized General UHP summer tires TOTALLY transformed this car for me. BIG difference!

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  What a great car!!! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Justin69 - August 31 - 10:00 am

  If you are looking for a car that gets good gas mileage and out performs other vehicles on the road, look no further this is your vehicle. Since I purchased it I just cant seem to stop driving it. It is an addiction I am glad I have.

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  Excelent Car for the Price - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Omar - August 30 - 10:06 pm

  Used to drive a BMW 330ci coupe but decided to change after a relocation due to my work. I was looking to buy a long term car. I looked at various coupes to replace my "baby", and ended up with an RSX (wanted lower car payments). Although not a BMW, for the money, I do believe it is a great choice if you want a sporty car, without spending the big $$$. If you are in definite need for the performance, go for the Type S.

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  5300 rpm 2nd phase. - 2004 Acura RSX
  By billabong - August 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive just purchased my 2004 Nighthawk Black Pearl RSX Type-S. Coming from sports car(Mitsu 3000GT), this car serves me very well. I love the tight cornering ability, 6sp manual, 200hp i- Vtec...etc. Just as what my title of this colume, I smile when I see my rev meters reaching 5300rpm because Im pulling harder than ever!

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  Very Nice - 2006 Acura RSX
  By DanO - August 26 - 7:47 pm

  I bought this RSX-S on my birthday a great present to myself. I wanted one 3 years ago. This car is quick, nimble, well built, and has looks to die for. After 15 miles of driving, I felt at home in it. 6-speed is close ratio...for around town, just get to 3rd and stay there. Engine is a marvel of Honda engineering hungry for revs, and with 8 grand redline....well I have to get used to it! Interior is very comfortable and good looking, exterior is handsome and paint is flawless. This car has every feature (standard) that cars at 10K more have...an incredible value if you are in the market for this type of car.