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:

• 

  Worthy investment - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Jay - August 25 - 7:49 am

  Great performance and reliability. No complaints so far. Far exceeds expectations.

• 

  Instant Classic!! - 2004 Acura RSX
  By RSXorcist - August 24 - 5:25 am

  Ive had the car for a little over a year and I still find excuses to run errands just so I can drive it. I love this car. While I did grind 2nd gear occassionally, I figured it was more user error than anything. The seats are great, steering wheel firm, transmission precise and handling amazing. I wasnt a big fan of hatchback designs but this grew on me. You have to drive it to appreciate it. Ive taken it on the canyon twisties along with a buddies S2000 and it kept up quite well (probably wouldve kept up even better if the stock tires didnt stink).

• 

  Baby Born to Run - 2006 Acura RSX
  By RSX 2005 - August 23 - 9:52 pm

  I purchased my Acura after trading in a 2002 Civic. The civic has become small, drab, but excellent gas mileage. I went to view the Acura line I was impressed with all models. I fell in love with a greenish/metalic gun color unique to any other care I had seen. The sale was very easy: the car sold itself: solid, sporty feeling and pickup available in manual transmission with a leather interior or a beautiful tan microfiber seat/side interior. My test drive lasted 18 hrs as I moved from Austin to Nashville. At no time during the 1800 mile stretch did I feel cramped, the seat fit my body and was firmly attached to the body, something Civic lacked severely. Leather seats, who needed them..

• 

  WOW! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Gar - August 23 - 7:04 pm

  One-week owner Red(!)10 year Prelude veteran (higher torque, lower hp) weekend trip over 12,348 mt pass, both ways 34.8 mpg actual!! Went to test an Accord EX V6--never did. This little devil is a MONSTER! Hugs the hairpins, powers out of curves, quick, precise & easy brakes, and FUN! Never touched the rev-limiter. 200 miles for 5.7 gallons of gas. Worth it. Recommended.

• 

  rsx - 2002 Acura RSX
  By trung - August 21 - 2:50 pm

  great car, love it, takes up where integra took off

• 

  I love this car! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Cristina - August 19 - 5:17 pm

  I absolutely love this car! The price was great with all the options! I looked at every car in this class and the Acura was the best. I drive 80 miles every day on the interstate and this car loves to be driven fast!

• 

  Excellent ride - 2002 Acura RSX
  By HeVen - August 17 - 12:33 pm

  Very good bang for its buck, and also you wont find a luxury/speed car combination out there like the Type-S!!

• 

  RSX TYPE S SUPERCAR - 2002 Acura RSX
  By WILLDI - August 11 - 6:00 am

  SUPERB AUTOMOBILE WITH GREAT SAFETY FEATURES EXCELLENT LOOKS AND THE BACKING OF ACURA. GREAT ACCELERATION SPECIALLY AT HIGH RPMS. THE OVERSIZED DISKS BRAKES STOPS IT ON A DIME. GREAT STABILITY ON CURVES.

• 

  The effects of an RSX! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Ivey Walker - August 9 - 1:11 am

  This is a "tight" car, handles and performs very well. It has a lot of get up and dependency for getting out of the way!

• 

  Impressive - 2005 Acura RSX
  By ddgreen33 - August 8 - 5:14 pm

  My wife and I traded in our 2003 S2000 for this car and were glad we did. With the power that comes with the RSX I guessed the MPG would more than likely be around mid- 20s... but it stayed in the 30s. Best coupe out there... that I test drove.