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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  ACURA RSX - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Ashu Dassan - June 13 - 10:00 am

  This car is the best. It is so fun to drive. The engine in this car doent ever wanna go slow. I am young and I got this car. It is so fast I just love it. By the ways I am only 18 years old. but this is simply the best for me.

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  I Love This Car - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Arieno - June 10 - 11:47 am

  I love everything about this car. I was driving a 1987 Chrysler LeBaron because I never found anything new that would compare to its styling and handling until I found this.

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  Suprisingly Better Than I Thought - 2002 Acura RSX
  By TypeS-in-LA - June 8 - 10:03 am

  I was considering whether to buy a WRX or a RSX. I test drove the WRX & it was a good performance car. Than I test drove a Type S & wow! Talk about performance & luxury all in one! I just love my leather seats, the performance is great & the gas mileage is just awesome for car with this much performance.

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  Mostly Impressive - 2004 Acura RSX
  By CharlesC - June 8 - 3:01 am

  This is a great car. Its economical, reliable and sleek. I have not experienced any problems at all. Smooth transmission and clutch, useful hatchback, and good safety features for the price. Very sold feeling. Cloth seats are seriously awful. Try this car on before you buy... especially if you dont get leather.

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  Full Obsessed Customer Review - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Paula - June 4 - 8:48 pm

  Gorgeous, classy, sports car! Definitely worth the money if you have it, can be pricey though (gas + payments). Can race and blow others out on the highway. Is discouraging to drive in cities where there are tons of stop lights. Small and compact, but still seems to fit all my stuff in it. Friends are little squished in backseat. Havent had any under the hood problems with it yet (at 36k). The leather does have to be taken care of because it is stretched tight and wears out in spots. Not a big deal though. Best clutch-smooth shifting. Good in the snow (for Colorado). Side air bag for passenger automatically shuts off for small kids in front seat. Fold down back seats to trunk. Lumbar support on/off

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  Outstanding Vehicle. - 2004 Acura RSX
  By intensecycleboy - June 2 - 9:29 pm

  I dont normally review things unless I can speak from a relatively extensive experience. Ive had this car for a little over a year, and I accumulated ~25000km on it. I have very little to complain about. It meets and exceeds every single expectation I had when choosing a new vehicle. Fun, economical (with respect to my 2000 Pathfinder ... everything is economical), and of course stylish.

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  RSX IS A GREAT BUY - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Alex - June 2 - 1:45 pm

  This cars is my second honda purchase, my first being a civic dx in 99. I love veything about hondas reliability with my first car and now the RSX Type S has added great handling, incredible pick up, great high end speeds, and an appearance second to none. I would suggest this car to anyone who really enjoys driving a little too fast a little to often. As far as maintance i have had none which is right in line with hondas reputation. GO BUY IT TODAY!!

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  Die hard GM man converted by my RSX ! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By GRNTYPE-S - May 28 - 10:54 am

  Im 51 and this is the 1st import I have ever owned. The car is amazing! The ride is smooth and the road feel is taught, but not "stiff". You can nail the gas pedal and hear it just come to life like a wild animal or take it out for a quite cruise at 70 while playing Motzart. The body style is unlike anything else on the road. And the quality and attention to detail is unsurpassed at this price. The Chevy Cobalt Supercharged version is in the same price range. But look closely... it doesnt hold a candle to the quality of the RSX Type-S.

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  Great sporty coupe - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Richard - May 28 - 2:51 am

  Not much interior space to work with, but thats what you get with a sporty coupe. Great handling and steering and interior leather. A pleasure to drive.

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  RSX NON-type S! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Bill - May 20 - 10:39 am

  I love this car! Its the perfect combination of fun to drive and all around comfort for the daily commute. At first I was skeptical because the good press has surrounded the Type S version. However, if you need a fun to drive car that is comfortable for commuting (and every day life outside the track world), the standard RSX model is the way to go. Opt for the leather to take the comfort level up a step further. Also, the standard RSX model does not need premium fuel- the Type S does. So at an average of 27 MPG (city), thats one more accolade the automotive media has missed on this little brother of the Type-S.