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 - 2004 Acura RSX
  By acuRaSX - September 14 - 2:00 am

  its fun to drive and great to look at.. if you r into modding your car this car is great

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  Type S - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Trader - September 13 - 6:23 am

  Ive put 3600 miles on and have had no problems. This car is so fast, loves to rev. Seems like the car is begging you, "come on push me, ive got plenty more power for you"! The stereo sounds great and who wouldnt love zipping through those 6 gears. Seems like the cockpit was designed just for me. And the sound of that exhaust at high revs, wow. Im sold on Acura.

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  The Best Car on the Market - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Frost____ - September 12 - 10:00 am

  what can i say, this is just awsome car fun, sporty, comfortable, and the gas milage is great. You would be a fool to buy anything else in its class. This car is the gold standard for sport coupes.

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  Enough is Enough - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Enough is enough - September 11 - 2:31 am

  500 miles and the transmission has been replaced and I am still having the problem. I love the car but this is just insane!! You would think that Acura would recognize that this is a lemon and just replace the car, but it looks like Im going to just go through the loops. I have spent less than 24 hours with my car since I bought it two weeks ago. This is an extreme case I know, but that still doesnt make my car safe and reliable. Acura use to be known for the craftsmanship of there products.. I hope that isnt going away with time. My advice wait and see if there is a recall or something before buying.

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  Great Sporty Luxury Affordable Car - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Timothy M. Crawford - September 7 - 5:17 pm

  I (like many others!) needed a car w/ better mileage. I traded my 2000 Dakota PU for this. What a great car! It is fun to drive. Its sporty and quick. I love the Sequential shifter. I can play when I want, or just let it ride fully automatic. I took a road trip over a 800 miles and NOT ONCE did I ever feel uncomfortable. The leather seats wrap around you and make you feel very secure. I had just about all accessories put on this car and it was still a bargain! It looks great and is good on mileage. 2 major plusses...It is 1....highly rated by consumers reports, and 2 it is an ACURA. Nuf said...Try to find an 05 now!

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  Bas efits me fine. - 2002 Acura RSX
  By nilepo - September 7 - 9:56 am

  I wanted a fn commuter, and looked at both the RSX and the WRX. The Acura RSX just bles the doors off of the WRX in the comfort and bang for your buck deptartment for me. The base model does not have th get up and go of the Type-s, but I hae to say it has plenty enough power to get me into trouble. If you want a fun commuter that you can rely on go Acura RSX

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  Great car when its not in the shop - 2006 Acura RSX
  By physast - September 3 - 2:49 pm

  I have had this car for less than a week and have put no more than 400 miles on the car and it has already had the transmission replaced and is in the shop again to fix the same problem. I realize this is an extreme case but it doesnt make things easier on me. I havent had time to drive the car for fun except back and forth to the dealer to be fixed. Acura is working with me but in a extreme case like this they could replace my car or authorize the dealer to buy it back since it is obviously a lemon. My opinion. Wait to buy the new 2006 RSX till Acura can prove to stand by the cars and recognize a lemon and replace it. Acura cant catch every lemon but I shouldnt be punished for it!

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  Great car, great price - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Tom - September 3 - 8:59 am

  Definitely worth the money. Had it for about 2 months now and still cant wait to get in and drive. Im in love with the interior design and the handling. My car only has 850 or so miles on it so I havent taken it over 4000 revs yet. Havent seen what this baby can really do. Lovin it so far.

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  Great Car!! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Dominic Alexander - September 3 - 4:52 am

  Love the car!!My first Honda product!! Good gas mileage w/ gas prices being so high. Love the leather interior, climate control, the sports shift is a lot of fun

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  Type S - 2002 Acura RSX
  By RSX_S_Driver - August 28 - 8:30 pm

  Great car!