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:

• 

  RSX equals great car! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Ryan - February 19 - 11:18 pm

  One of the most fun cars ive driven. Just about everything is perfect on this car. Suspension holds very well, transmission is great but keeps you shifting unless your on the highway. Interior is perfect although the seats could use some more bolstering for the corners. and the seats can prove unfomfrtable on long trips such as one from LA to San Diego. Acceleration is decent for a sports car. A very great value and a fun car to drive

• 

  type S is the best!!! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By superman8998 - February 18 - 2:00 am

  great car to drive on the weekends or for everyday use. it works with you when you want to drive easy and the i- vtec hits hard when you want to smoke the rest. for those people out there complaining about how bad it is on gas, go by a civic!!! you cant expect to get all that power and not give up on a little bit of gas. by the way, i think it gets great gas mileage.

• 

  Best Integra Ever - 2003 Acura RSX
  By RSXGURU - February 13 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my RSX for more than a week now. Its got leather a 160 hp motor backed by a smooth shifting 5 speed tranny and a curb weight of just under 2 and a half tons. This is a GREAT car to drive. Would have bought the type S but the insurance companies basically asked me to bend over...

• 

  Know what you are buying..... - 2006 Acura RSX
  By CarolinaRSX - February 8 - 4:55 pm

  I have over 1000 miles on my 06 RSX- S. Its a great car so far. Took it in once already with a known problem in the front springs. The gearing is very close so be prepared to change them A LOT. Unless you want to whine the car out to 6K-8K rpm everytime, in every gear, you will be shifting 4 times by the time you hit 45mph. The car does pull hard to 8.1K rpm, but who wants to rev the engine that high ALL the time. The seats, radio, controls, styling are all fantastic. The handling is close to the Mini Cooper, but longer wheel base makes it ride better.

• 

  Fun, fun, fun. - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Juan - February 3 - 5:17 pm

  Fun to drive, the six speed shifter can get tiring if you are not into shifting all the time. Back seat space is pretty tight, if you have friends over 58" tall have them seat up front. Great fuel economy for such a fast car. Acura build means it still feels like new. No problems with it so far.

• 

  Like A Dream - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Langston - January 26 - 2:00 pm

  This is my first car after owning a Chevy Cavilier and this car is fantastic. I live in Miami and have to be in traffic alot but when I get a break in the road- it zips right out of those tight spots and gets ahead of alot of the other cars. I have been able to get out of traffic where a larger Mustang will get left behind. I dont see alot of RSXs around and when I do I think they look really hot on the road. My friends love my car and I have been challenged to race several times on the road- but of course, I am a safe driver. ) Overall- this car handles like a pro, it looks great and the chics love it. Black with tinted windows and all the fixings- it is the Intergra I always wanted.

• 

  Acura RSX - Transmission Issues - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Scott - January 25 - 12:01 am

  I like everything about this car, except for the transmission. The 5 speed grinds often in 2nd and 3rd gear, and over 1900 people have signed a petition regarding this. Honda blames the driver...most of whom have been driving sticks for years. And no other manufacture seems to have a website dedicated to this problem. 3 Trips to the dealer and nothing has been done to fix or improve the problem. They have also not fixed my side airbag light that comes on and stays on more and more often. The Acura rep was rude and insulting of my shifting. The fun to drive factor is gone.

• 

  smooth enough for ladies, quick for guys - 2003 Acura RSX
  By ChronoSphere - January 11 - 2:00 am

  This car is simply great - the best bang for my buck. The interior and exterior styling is exemplary. This car has enough smoothness and sophistication to impress the ladies, yet enough oopmh and power to wow your guy buddies.

• 

  The Best car for ever - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Gino - January 11 - 2:00 am

  The best car !!

• 

  Nothing Better for that Price - 2003 Acura RSX
  By John Usman - January 1 - 10:00 am

  You can not, and will not find a better vehicle. I have raced this car and spanked everyone. Beyond the auto/manual shifter, sleak design, and great alpine system, there are girls. Every time Im driving girls fall in love with me (MY CAR). Maybe some would call it pothetic that I use my car to get girls, but they are just angry that they are not getting any. Two thumbs way up for this one.