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:

• 

  Better than a GSR - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Caryn S. - October 6 - 1:54 pm

  I was planning on buying an older Integra GSR and had driven many of them. I thought the RSX was out of my price range but decided to test drive it anyway. After just a 10 minute test drive I had totally changed my mind. The extra money was worth to spend. The RSX-type S handles better, goes faster, and has its own unique interior compared to the Integra. Taking this car on back roads is the most thrilling ride. It rides like rails around those sharp turns and with the new seats for the RSX you stay right in your seat. Its like it hugs you in your seat. The power is incredible and I love the sound of hitting that V-Tec. For the money you pay for this car its definitely worth every cent!

• 

  2nd RSX-S - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Cookinham - October 1 - 11:20 am

  A few weeks ago I turned in my 2003 RSX-S with 40,000 miles for a new 2006 RSX-S. The reason is clear, this is the best and most fun sports car I have ever owned. I want to keep that feeling for as long as I can, so I got a new one. Same color, silver, and everything else is the same. I have owned two Porsches and this is more fun more reliable and a lot cheaper to maintain. If you want a fun car that will not cost you an arm and a leg and that is highly reliable you should get an RSX.

• 

  Love it! - 2006 Acura RSX
  By sawjinx - September 30 - 5:27 pm

  Sold the SUV for more fuel efficient car and bought a 2005 RSX. Im averaging 33mpg and not driving in the slow lane, if you know what I mean. Handles tight curves like a champ. A real head turner, too, but not overdone. No complaints. Id buy it again in a heartbeat.

• 

  Growing Out of My RSX - 2003 Acura RSX
  By luotodm - September 27 - 3:20 pm

  I found a brand new 2003 still in the showroom in July 2004. Dealer took $4k off, and I couldnt pass it up. Absolute blast to drive on curvey roads and highways alike. Suspension is tight (but bumpy at times), and enough power to pass anyone. Hatchback with folding seats has been life-saver. The clutch requires extra leg-work and can give you a cramp after awhile. Also you have to get the clutch all the way to the floor, no room for mistakes, or youll grind gears. Get the auto if doing a lot of stop-and-go. Had trouble with my starter, and was replaced after 4th visit. Perfect car for recent grad. But I need more cargo space, and 4 doors would be nice.

• 

  TypeS Excellent value for the price - 2004 Acura RSX
  By ran - September 26 - 10:00 am

  While the exterior and interior leave much to the imagination the performance is undeniable. For a car at this price it is excellent and you know you have Hondas reputation of reliability behind you.

• 

  Familiar yet new. - 2006 Acura RSX
  By dime5150 - September 21 - 7:40 pm

  I recently purchased a 2006 RSX. Mine had 3 miles on it and just came off the boat. The car is amazing. It is what the Civic should be and fills in the gap in the lineup. The car is beautiful. The headlights are not only beautiful but functional with great light splash on the road. The interior is very clean and well thought out. The seats are comfortable and attractive with racing inspired looks. The car doesnt scream at you like what the sport enthusiasts want (add aftermarket if you want that) but has that real classy look that will last. These things are hard to find even new. Leather is unneccesary as the cloth is perfect and reminicsent of the type r.

• 

  Adrenaline Rush - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Nauman - September 21 - 6:38 am

  as far as performance is concerned, its got more then enough for any stupid ticket your trying to get. after 3k revs this car jumps to life like nothing else. stock/ it will hang with v8s. i have just under 8k on mine, no mods except the subs, and no real racing experience. this car managed to pull me out of a deadly situation on the highway at over 120mph. it also destroyed countless red light revvers. has gotten an otherwise ordinary man tons of attention. and has people wondering what my hurry is. if you wanna know what a cheap thrill really is, go out and get one of these bad boys...

• 

  2005 RSX S is a Best Buy - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Greg - September 20 - 11:49 pm

  I used to have a 1999 Honda Prelude and I know how reliability is one for my biggest issues. Honda has proven to be one of the best reliable cars for the money. I drove the Prelude like I stole it on the regular. Now that I have the RSX S, WOW! This car is amazingly more fun to drive and revvs strong to redline. Most of my friends who own European cars love the high revvs to redline. This car handles like a champ for daily driving and is light enough to toss around for some fun times. The power to weight ratio is very close to the S2000 so it pulls very hard for a 4banger. Ive read many posts about just adding an intake and race header and youre on your way to high 13s soon........

• 

  bye bye VW - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Alex - September 20 - 2:08 pm

  I bought this car after a 3 year lease on a VW Jetta 1.8T. I had so many problems with that car so I decided to turn my back on VW. This car offers a fun ride which will make you smile almost everytime you drive. It first really buttoned down in the corners and has loads of grip. Even though the torque output is modest all you need to do is take this car up to redline once and you will be sold. I mean this car (6.1) is quicker than a base porsche boxter(6.5)and for $20,000 less. The engine is smooth and refined and the shifter is crisp and accurate. I have not driven a car with a shifter that is as smooth at this price. This car also gets great gas mileage.

• 

  review on RSX - 2004 Acura RSX
  By fmtwister10 - September 20 - 2:00 am

  I love the car!