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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  Its worth the money! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Kamster888 - December 24 - 1:31 pm

  I just bought my car 12/18/2004 and it was worth the wait and money. The overall design and layout of the car is just so intuitive. Sure there are things lacking such as navigation, HID headlights, and an armrest, but Im just so pleased with the overall vehicle I can overlook the shortcommings. The performance is good enough for me with the 5 speed auto although I havent got on it because Im still breaking it in. Im surprised how smooth the car rides and its fairly quiet. I have an 2001 Acura CL Type S and to me the only difference is in the power and the interior quality, rich and soft materials for the headliner, dash, door, and other surfaces. Overall, its worth the money!

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  Test drive thoroughly... - 2002 Acura RSX
  By ftms86 - December 24 - 10:00 am

  Pay particular attention to the feel of the gear box before buying this car. Prior to purchasing, I had read reviews that mentioned "gear grinding" between first and second. During my test drive, I felt confident that I did not notice this symptom. Now, with about 2000 miles on the car, I can consistently feel and hear the "grind" I read about. Acura says this is normal, but we (a number of type-s owners) have our doubts. My advice is to know what you are getting into. If you dont mind a notch or two while shifting, go for it (I did!). All things considered, this is one of the best cars I have ever owned: Truly a joy to drive.

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  Putting the POCKET in Pocket Rocket - 2002 Acura RSX
  By newege - December 24 - 10:00 am

  After seeing one on the street the tastefully assertive exterior got me to the dealership. The wonderfully designed dash and the number of features for the money got me convinced to make the purchase. Now I will spend the next 3 years with regular trips to the chiropractor because I keep banging my head on the roof with every bounce. Its fun to go fast but the buzzing motor cycle sound is embarrassing! WHAT WAS I THINKING!!! Anybody want to buy mine?

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  My first car - 2005 Acura RSX
  By aaron - December 22 - 6:17 pm

  This is the first car ive bought with my own dinero, and as such u could imagine that a lot of thought went in to it. I was looking at the 2005 Ford Mustang first of all but when I went to the Acura dealership and sat down in the type-s, well i knew then and there that this was the car i wanted. drove it out of the park the same day.

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  AWSOME CAR - 2003 Acura RSX
  By SpeedyJ - December 17 - 2:00 am

  an awsome car, fast, awsome handling, great interior design, a real head turner........and its fun to drive.....

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  Great car. Not much like it on the road - 2004 Acura RSX
  By jeff2417 - December 14 - 5:24 pm

  I love this car. Its made by Honda, so expect Honda reliability. The 200hp TypeS engine is a hoot! If you havent ever driven one, you owe it to yourself to go down and try one out. Take it up to 8100, slam it into second, and hold the hell on!

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  RSX is a great little car! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By wenjenaz - December 13 - 6:50 pm

  I love this car! Its fun to drive, responsive, nimble. Oh, and did I mention, fun to drive? Buy this car. You wont be disappointed (unless youre a passenger sitting in the back seat. Not much head room back there).

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  One Outstanding Car! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Mike - December 10 - 2:45 pm

  Ive had my 2002 RSX for about 6 months now and I have to say this car never ceases to amaze me.The interior is beyond what I expected the seats are very comfortable, theres tons of leg and head room, all the controls are at close reach, and best of all is how smooth the car is shifting through gears.The car accelerates through 6500 rpms like a knive cutting through butter its smooth, quiet, and continues to deliver power all through the rpms, not once hesitating.I also am impressed with the exterior styling, unlike the celica with those hideous curves and horrible wheels the RSX is well thoughout.The car is suttle but has an aggressive look. Overall the RSX is a stunning vehicle!!

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  One Sweet Ride! - 2004 Acura RSX
  By RSXdemon - December 9 - 6:21 am

  Great to drive...anywhere. Big trunk space for a coupe, I was able to move furniture and a 24 TV. Great handling on turns, Love that the radio faces more to the driver. Excellent gas milage...LA to Las Vegas in 3/4 of the tank. Looks like a rocket all my friends love my car. I got mine for 20K.

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  S2000 with a Backseat - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Samantha - December 8 - 12:39 am

  I have been a fan of the RSX since it was introduced a fews years back. I used to work for Honda and have had the opportunity to drive rival models. The 2005 RSX awesome in performance and reliability without sacrificing style or the economy. The new Type-S is an amazing machine! With over five thousand dollars in upgrades this year, driving this one in juxtaposition to the 2004 is like night and day. A couple of days before I bought my Nighthawk Black Type-S, my mother testdrove one and loved it so much she traded in her year-old Si for a Jade Green Type-S. Acura has made a shocking 360 with their designing. All the new Acuras are as beautiful as they are breath-taking on the road.