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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  Love it! - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Vy - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I switched from a 2000 Honda Accord to a 2003 RSX and I love it! This car is sporty and fun to drive. It took a bit of getting used to since the suspension is pretty stiff and bumps in the road are definitely felt. The louder engine took some getting used to as well, but it is no problem! All in all, I love it!

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  Finely tuned machine - 2002 Acura RSX
  By jlball1727 - August 7 - 10:00 am

  This car is sweet...with sporty design and a sleek interior this car rocks!!! With tight gears and short throws the 6 speed moves...200 hp is a ton for this little pocket rocket...what a great machine...

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  Highly recommended after 1 year - 2004 Acura RSX
  By fausto - August 2 - 3:42 pm

  Ive had this car for 25,000 miles. Bought it brand new. Have had a few minor rattles (dash, heat shield, both fixed) and a window motor was replaced. Other than that, the car has been trouble-free. I mean, its a Honda. Performance wise, it handles great now that Ive replaced the stock tires with good ones. Its as fast as a WRX but gets 32+ mpg no matter how hard you drive. The steering and shifting are paticularly nice. However the 6-speed tranny (with triple cone synchros) definitely shifts best in the hands of an experienced driver. Overall, I compared the RSX to the WRX, Mini Cooper S, STI, Audi A4, 350Z and RX-8 and Im very, very glad I got the RSX.

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  Solid - 2005 Acura RSX
  By krachon - July 27 - 6:43 pm

  Overall a great ride. Fast, smooth and fun when on the road. I am on the road driving everyday for work and the RSX makes the driving much more tolerable.

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  Great car - 2005 Acura RSX
  By stereo5 - July 26 - 5:33 pm

  I have owned many cars in my 32 years of driving, the 2005 RSX Type S is the BEST car I have ever owned. The car is very quick, very quiet and extremely reliable and fun to drive.

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  The definition of a sports car - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Jack - July 13 - 6:45 pm

  I love driving this car! I was first I little skeptical about purchasing this car since this would be my first manual transmission. I learned to drive stick in this car with ease. The handling is impeccible and there is plenty of power to boot. The best part about this car is the backing of the aftermarket. There are tons of parts out there to customize the car to your liking. The car is very sporty, but also looks very elegant. This car has the most standard features compared to it competitors including auto climate control and an in-dash 6CD changer. In all this is a great car, just watch out for misshifts, its very easy to misshift the car especially from 5 to 4 and ending up in 2nd.

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  Well worth the money! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By James - July 12 - 8:17 pm

  I guess I really have no room for comparison, but this car is great. I went from a 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee to a 2005 RSX and it really has exceeded my expectations. The drive is so smooth. I have an automatic with the sports shifter. The sports shifter is the best thing ever. I can treat the car like a stick, but if I get tired of it, I can go back to auto. Also when on the highway when trying to pass cars, I can switch to manual and drop it into 3rd and zip past everyone. Very good performance. Great exterior. I dont see how they can say itÂ’s forgettable itÂ’s by far one of the most memorable cars in my mind, thatÂ’s why I bought one! Inside is sleek and clean. Never been happier!

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  very fun and sporty car to drive - 2005 Acura RSX
  By David - July 11 - 11:52 pm

  The car revs nice. Drives fast on freeway. Very good gas milage. Handles great for stock suspension.

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  Great girls car - 2005 Acura RSX
  By A Dad - July 10 - 11:02 pm

  Bought the 05 RSX in Jade Metallic for my daughters 17th birthday, her first car. She was not disappointed and neither am I. Easy to handle great to drive and very dependable. Price was not bad either. The S type would have been great for me but as a first car the 2.0 auto with sport shifting is just what the doctor ordered for a young inexperienced teenage girl driver

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  Great car but needs minor improvements - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Gerard - July 10 - 3:52 pm

  I had an 04 that creaked and groaned with body flex and some other problems as well so the dealer bought it back from me and sold me this one. Much improved structure, smoother ride (with bigger wheels), infinitely more comfortable seats, the boy racer rear wing is finally gone, and the exhaust note is better. This is one fun car to drive and knowing its a Honda, itll last. 0-60 time cut from 6.3 to 6.2? awesome! Build quality has been improved and its look isnt so animated. Still very irked that there is no center armrest, no XM option, cant play MP3s, and no express up/down on passenger side.