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:

• 

  Buy It! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Dee - July 9 - 2:52 pm

  If you are looking at any of the competitors dont even bother. This car rocks! It is fun to drive and has the Acura quality that others cant compete with. This car is practical to drive everyday, but is still fun and kicks it when you need to. I would say that the only negative is the size. Some of my taller guy friends are really crammed when riding in it. I have had Civics, Accords, Eclipse, and none compare to this car. I can honestly say, you will never regret it if you buy and RSX.

• 

  Great car, Safe and Stylish - 2002 Acura RSX
  By wtm - July 6 - 1:03 pm

  I unfortunately totaled my RSX-S recently by bouncing it off two trees at almost 70 mph. There was no damage to the interior cabin and thankfully no injuries. Besides being safe, this car is a thrill to drive. The car is really fun at about 6500 rpms and handles beautifully. The leather interior is comfortable and sporty, especially the red guages. This car is great for the consumer that wants excitement in a safe and stylish compact car. The car is an overall great buy and I would recommend it to anyone in the compact market.

• 

  Best import you can get today - 2005 Acura RSX
  By D Lankford - July 1 - 11:57 am

  What can I say that hasnt been said already? Most amazing 4 cylinder engine ever built (105 hp per liter), near indestructible 6 speed, effortless clutch, excellent brakes with pratically zero fade after heavy braking, recaro designed leather seats, extremely compitent suspension that exhibits both incredible stablilty when driving agressive and maintains a civilized ride on long road trips and still manages high 20s mpg on the interstate. Dont gripe about creature comforts. This car was not built for that. If you want fancy interior and power everything, buy a TSX or TL. The K20 engine responds VERY well to mods. An intake, header and ECU tune will have you outrunning domestic V8s.

• 

  Amazing, but could be rounded out more - 2003 Acura RSX
  By John - June 29 - 6:28 pm

  I have owned this vehicle for about 23 months now and I drive about 2000 miles per month. My driving is about 1/2 city and 1/2 freeway and Ive taken it on some longer road trips also. It has great gas mileage, great acceleration and tight steering and suspension. The seats definitely get uncomfortable, but they also let you feel the road in a sporty way. After the first few hundred miles, I thought the 6-speed transmission was broken, but it turns out that Acura just makes em "different". Third gear is a little odd (youll probably grind it from time to time, even if youre very experienced). The BOSE sound system is nothing special compared to other luxury sound systems.

• 

  Best bang for the buck! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By blue_rsx - June 29 - 6:18 pm

  For $22K, this is a great car. It has enough pep to make it a fun car to drive, and it is a great looking car too--inside and out!

• 

  worst...transmission....EVER - 2004 Acura RSX
  By B17A1girl - June 28 - 3:37 pm

  As a the Internet Sales Manager and a salesperson at a car dealership, I drive different cars every day. My Acura RSX type-S, which is supposed to be one of the most reliable cars available, has the worst manual transmission I have ever experienced on a new car. Ever since I bought it, 2nd and 3rd gear have been grinding. Its been back to 3 different Acura dealers 4 times for the same problem. Only one of them was willing to fix it and found that the synchros are bad from the factory. They supposedly replaced them but the problem continues. NEVER buying a Honda product again.

• 

  Gods gift to the sport compact scene - 2005 Acura RSX
  By 05 Black Type S - June 27 - 7:07 pm

  This car is an absolute dream. I picked my 05 Black Type S up for invoice price! The Type S has what feels like an endless supply of power. I drove from Chicago to Indianapolis right after I bought it, and had problems keeping it under 90mph, it just wants to get up and run. I love the attention this car brings... Im a single 23 year old male, and I dont mind the looks I get from girls who see/hear the Type S. Its fast, and looks classy... almost like a baby Ferarri.

• 

  RSX-S is the way to go! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By pannetron - June 26 - 11:02 am

  The Type S for 2005 comes with better wheels, brakes and suspension turning an already great car into a wonderfully responsive sports coupe.

• 

  Fun ,Fast & Reliable - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Kenobfish - June 25 - 9:30 pm

  This car is a blast to drive.

• 

  My First Acura(Honda)2 - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Hugh27(2) - June 25 - 10:00 am

  So far GREAT!!! Took it on my first trip, get this,.....Filled up, set the cruise at 70. At my destination(127 miles later) topped it off to get a fuel reading. Took 3.25 gallons to fill. 127/3.25= 39mpg!! WAY better than I ever imagined. I hope when it breaks in it is the same or better!