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 S-Type- Not Just for Kids - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Matthew M. - March 24 - 3:00 pm

  Ive owned the RSX S-Type since Dec 1, 04. I took my wifes TSX in for an oil change and test drove the RSX while I was waiting. I went back the next day and bought the RSX. The general manager asked who the car was for. I said for me, do you think Im too old (55 at the time). I love it. It is by far the most fun car to drive I have ever had and the most sporty. The sport does add a much stiffer suspension than some may like but for handling you cant beat it. It loves the on ramps to the interstate and the faster you drive it the better it sticks. The higher the revs the better and it will fly in the higher rev range. Best car in this class for the money, period.

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  NRH RSX S type at 4 Months - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Rosemary Eppa - March 23 - 1:08 pm

  Driven mostly in town, to and from work. No long trips yet. Very reliable, gets in and out of tight spots well. Great get up and go and great braking ability. Havent really stepped on it yet but has plenty of horses to spare. Very tight gearbox. Fun to shift up or down. Wet or dry its all good.

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  Even - 2005 Acura RSX
  By David Rector - March 22 - 11:59 am

  I love the care but it has allready had a new Motor put in it and there are alot of rattiling in the dash but overall the car is fun to drive and the fuel economy is great so over all I would Rate and allright car

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  this car is great! - 2006 Acura RSX
  By typesnukka - March 16 - 12:38 am

  i got this car about a month ago and i absolutely love it. its great to drive, nice and smooth, the bose is good, i listen to alot of rap and i love bass and although the sub it came with wasnt enough it still sounded great even though i added 2 12in subs in the back. performance wise, INCREDIBLE. this car shifts AMAZING, i love the sound the engine makes, revs high i like it. very VERY fast, 120 EASY. extremely enjoyable to drive. this car is very HOT, the ladies love it, and it stands out where ever you drive. i couldnt ask for a better car. i love my 06 rsx type-s and i wouldnt give it up for anything (maybe a ferrari but i would sell it and buy another rsx and keep the extra money 8-))

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  2006 Black Type S - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Carl - March 7 - 12:46 pm

  My Type S is fun to drive.The performance,quality and appearance are just what I was looking for.

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  Perfect - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Xero - March 7 - 10:00 am

  Absolutely Perfect and lovable. You dont need any other car but this one.

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  Needs more - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Jenn - March 2 - 6:52 pm

  Looks great, very reliable, but for the money, this car needs MORE! I feel like I bought a hot car with stripped down basic features, but paid a lot because of the name Acura. And, geez, this car has no pick up whatsoever! I hit the gas and nothing!

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  high strung - 2005 Acura RSX
  By The Lombards - February 25 - 8:23 pm

  if you are in to downshifting and revs like a motorcycle, you will love it. balance through the turns and excellent power to weight ratio. by the way the leather is real comfy all seasons

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  Please Fixed it!! - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Nameless - February 24 - 3:20 am

  Guys, Dun get this car if u are considering.. because you and your car will spend most of the time in the dealership. The car has a strut problem and never going to be fixed. And you probably heard rattle noise when driving on bumpy roads. The tires skid when accelerate... so.... Think again when buying RSX and RSX-S

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  Head and Heart both Love It - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Beltway Driver - February 23 - 8:42 am

  I bought my RSX Type-S in September 2003 as a commuting car for a daily drive around the Washington beltway, and its helped me survive the areas brutal driving conditions in style. The car is a great value in purchase price, in gas mileage and in the low operating costs/perfect reliability. At the same time I still get a seat-of-the pants thrill every time I rev it up to merge onto the highway or whip around a curve. I looked at many other cars before buying none compared in style and driving pleasure in this price range. Road noise and stiff seats are a small tradeoff Im happy to make for this much sport-driving pleasure.