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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  RSX - 2003 Acura RSX
  By jack zhang - June 26 - 10:00 am

  I think it is very good 4 racing

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  A Great All Around Choice - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Frank - June 18 - 12:32 pm

  I decided it was time to purchase a reliable car that would hold its value, Acura was my choice. The warranties, customer service and quality of these cars are second to none. I needed a daily driver that was sporty, reliable, held its value, and got great gas mileage at a good price. The RSX was all these things. Im extremely happy with my purchase. Im in Pa and averaging 31-32 mpg with a little spirited driving in that number. The car gives all its power in the 5- 7k rpm range. Its quite a sound at that rpm. I wanted the S-Type but the insurance premiums made it unrealistic, not to mention having to use Premiums gas. The 5-speed base RSX was the perfect compromise for me.

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  best car of the year! - 2006 Acura RSX
  By d - June 14 - 4:58 pm

  the car is great looks great. i am so happy with it and will keep for a long time

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  2006 RSX-S - 2006 Acura RSX
  By jake c borunda - June 12 - 8:35 pm

  This has been one of the mast fun and exhilarating sporty car I have owned to date. Out of the GT Mustang, Z28 Camaro, SVT Focus, and C230 Mercedes this care has proven that not only can you have sports car performance, but you can also have luxuryous ride as well. It does well in every catagory, not only in performance. Acura could easly justify chargeing well above the manufactured sticker price, or even the dealers asking price. This car is a home run!

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  Excellent car to own and drive - 2004 Acura RSX
  By MizouKev - June 9 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever owned. It is the perfect combo of a luxury and sports car. Great perfromance and handling. Very responsived steering.

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  Awesome! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By dmitry78 - June 7 - 10:00 am

  Ive been driving my new RSX for two weeks, and I love it! It drives like a dream and definitely turns heads, too! My previous car was a Ford Focus ZX3, and, by comparison, this is a higher- quality, better-handling, and more sophisticated vehicle.

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  RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Raymond Young - June 7 - 9:06 am

  This is the second RSX that I bought in 2002. The first one my wife hit a parked car doing 60 mph she walked away with only a broken pair of glasses (the air bag). We bought the second RSX exactly like the first. It is fun the drive and we have had zero problems.

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  Best car for the money - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Mikey - June 2 - 10:31 pm

  I love my Acura RSX !!! I have owned it for about 2 years now and have driven 45k miles with no problems whatsoever. It has good pick up at higher RPMs but lacks torque. The leather interior is much nicer than the standard cloth. With the automatic climate control and the leather seats and my new navigation system (going to be installed this week) this car feels like a luxury vehicle and I only paid 20k for it. Stock stereo system isnt the greatest but car is definitely efficient and fun to drive.

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  Acura RSX---Loving it - 2004 Acura RSX
  By GAF - June 2 - 2:00 am

  The car has excellent handling capabilitites, superb gas mileage and is an all around great car to drive. I had a Volkswagen Beetle before this car and I must say that this car is quantum leaps ahead of the beetle.

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  Bargain RSX - 2004 Acura RSX
  By netdiver - June 2 - 2:00 am

  Great value. Best car under $17K. Yes, really. Completely different ride then my 99 CL, but lot of fun to drive. All luxury features are standard, not like other car companies that try to nickel and dime you for things like floor mats, sunroof etc. Highly recommended.