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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  everyday rSx - 2006 Acura RSX
  By russmey - April 22 - 1:17 pm

  Its been a great experience to drive a car that can provide 160 hp with v-tech at only a few thousand rpm away.

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  2004 RSX - 2004 Acura RSX
  By jjthomas182 - April 19 - 6:13 pm

  Ive had my 2004 RSX for 2 years now and I love it! I have had several other sports cars in the past, the last being a mustang. This car is fast, but still managers to be practical, compfortable, reliable, and fuel efficient. It also has the more prestige name of acura with many luxury features, but was suprisingly affordable. definately best in class

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  A great little car - 2006 Acura RSX
  By sundownlady - April 14 - 5:13 pm

  This car drives great has the handling capability and stability of a BMW. It seems its cruising speed is around 80 mph and is a real pleasure to drive. The fuel economy isnt that great, but perhaps if I maintained a "normal" speed it would be better. Bottomline, I Love IT!!

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  everything i expected - 2006 Acura RSX
  By robert - April 10 - 10:38 am

  searched long time to replace my old car, this car was the result. originally i looked at the civic EX but it was only 1000 cheaper and i knew the acura service would be much better. the car goes quick, slight noise on rough roads, but on nicely paved ones very quiet. for 20000 wont find more reliable car w/2 liters + all std features of elec acc, cruise control,auto climate control, great recaro standard seats. i test drove manual found it to be geared tall. i liked the pickup of 1 and 2nd in the auto. didnt try the rsx-s because i need the mileage more than the acceleration, and the -S only comes in leather. leather tears eventually. my best city mileage 28, best hwy at 65mph was 44

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  NOT an Integra - 2003 Acura RSX
  By 62" - April 7 - 2:00 am

  After owning an Integra for a while I can tell you that this car misses the mark.The shifter clunks into second gear (all others are good)the seats are fair at best and the ride/road noise/sound system are all poor.There is a HUGE gap in power between 3000 and 5000 RPM. I should have bought another Integra.

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  Cant beat it! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By jammin05s - April 6 - 3:41 pm

  I love this car. You will truly appreciate the power out of a stock 4 cylinder engine. More than 50 horse power per cylinder!! Performance you cant imagine from a company that did.

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  Spirited Driver - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Brett - April 5 - 3:07 pm

  This review is from the perspective of a "spirited" driver that didnt have enough money for a ferrari. Yet. Everything is as expected. Hondas reliability with Acuras fit and finish yields an excellent platform. The i-Vtec engine is really fun, even with only 155hp. The lightweight chassis makes it seem like much more. This cars fun-to-drive factor is through the roof, stable at high speeds, and very sure footed. On frigidly cold mornings there is a little chatter from the dashboard (mounting clips?) but goes away after the car warms up. Great in the snow. Car never bottoms out. I am disapointed about its gas mileage. I wasnt expecting 34 but 25 is about the best I can expect.

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  RSX-S, Great commuter - 2002 Acura RSX
  By brian - March 29 - 1:25 am

  I started with a Subaru Impreza AWD, so the transition to the RSX-S was pretty easy. The RSX-S has a nice stiff stock suspension, and great handling it almost feels like it has AWD. With a couple small mods(cold air intake, racing exhaust) the car has a noticeable difference in acceleration. Its a lot of fun to drive, and has a sleek design.A++

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  my RSX - 2003 Acura RSX
  By linnhtet - March 27 - 10:00 am

  its been awesome car

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  Road Noise - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Britt - March 27 - 8:53 am

  First off, the car is great, and everything you could ask for the money, HOWEVER, the road noise is horrible. The trunk and glove compartment rattle non-stop and the dashboard creaks when it is cold. I have taken it to the dealership 3 times and nothing has worked. I am thoroughly dissapointed in the overall quality. I was told that "its a commuter car and is noisy". If you dont mind the noise - buy it - if you do, run away fast.