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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  Hook It Up and Race It. - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Zick - December 7 - 10:00 am

  This car is a fun, quick car to drive. The response and handling make it a prime racing car. driving a 2002 Celica GTS and a Mitsubishi Eclipse would drive this car over both of those.

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  Great Car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Airtouch - December 5 - 4:29 am

  This is my first new car and let me tell you, it is great! Bought it last February and I have not regretted it. While not the most "sporty" looking car, the styling grew on me and then I knew I just had to buy this car. Overall, Id say best car for my price range. Rev this engine up and I guarantee youll be breaking the speed limit. Great handling, Great interior! Could use a little smoother tranny, but I get by with it.

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  A REAL IMPROVEMENT! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Soloseeker - December 2 - 1:22 am

  Having owned an 04 RSX previously,I can say the changes for 05 are quite noticeable improvements. Finally, an all around terrific car now with comfortable seats, a ride that doesnt pound your brains out over broken pavement, and is quiet on the highway. Better brakes and quicker and lighter steering make the car almost perfect. I happen to like the new headlights, and, (believe it or not) they actually look similar to those in the new RL, and more importantly, they do a better job of illuminating the road. I think they dumped those cheap sounding speakers, and even gave the horn a more European tone. With the 05 improvements, I cant think of anything to complain about.

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  luv my rsx - 2005 Acura RSX
  By tinosbabe - December 1 - 11:13 pm

  I love this car. The new model looks like it comes with a body kit.I hope it performs as well as my old Integra.

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  Great Car - 2005 Acura RSX
  By theboy_20001 - November 30 - 2:40 am

  I am very impressed with the type - s After driving a regular RSX there is no comparison. The type-s is quick and responsive with smooth shifting. The interior is very comfortable and stylish. I added the aftermarket armrest from boomerang, it is a definite improvement I dont know why they dont include one from the factory. I am very impressed with the stereo system. The exterior is nice it is a good looking vehicle, the lights are much better looking and the standard skirts and wheels are also an added feature. The sunroof is a good feature. I would have preffered a regular exhaust over the oversized exhaust but it is still ok.

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  What I have been looking for! - 2005 Acura RSX
  By zorman71 - November 27 - 5:42 pm

  Been looking at many different cars for ~2months. Then I went to the Acura dealer, where my journey ended. This car is very fun to drive, environmently guit-free, and I enjoy the heck out of communting to work & short trips on the weekends. So far it seems I can comfortably double any speed sign an any exit ramp while riding alone. My 4 year old daughter loves hanging out in the back on weekend drives, plenty of room for the 3 of us (me, mom & her). Should also note I tested the Scion TC3 & the RSX towers.

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  Great car - 2005 Acura RSX
  By JLD - November 24 - 10:12 am

  Acura builds the best small performance car around but more importantly, I would challenge anybody to find a car with a better resale value including Toyota. Im now moving from an Integra to a RSX and my wife just got rid of her boring Subura Forester for an Acura TSX. Have to work on the kids now so we can become an all Acura family!

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  DQB Review - 2005 Acura RSX
  By dqb - November 23 - 1:52 pm

  this car is truly more refined than the last 02-04 models. the exterior is much cleaner than the last and performance has also increased. suspension is a lot better too because of the lower ride height and different suspension parts. Interior was pretty much the exact same thing, there was no change at all.

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  2002 Base 5 Speed Acura RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By buhusky - November 17 - 10:00 am

  2002 base model 5 speed manual RSX. Impressed. Ride is nice, seats are firm & snug (but not tight) which is nice - they hold you quite well. Standard stereo is good (Alpine w/ 6 speakers) and sounds better than i thought with good bass response. Handles nicely, acceleration is good. Its the only one in my town so far and everybody looks! Totally red lights (except A/C - standard green) at night are different, but good. The headlights put out nice light. The sunroof is smaller but VERY quiet when its open, even when going down the highway. Compared RSX to Subaru Impreza (not WRX) & opted for this. No regrets, highly recommended!

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  Acura RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Tony - Philly - November 17 - 10:00 am

  The real fun of driving this car is definitely the sequential shift. Learn to drive this car in both automatic and shift mode and you will have fun. Shifting manually allows you to gain the full power of the engine and is great for overtaking. Overall a fun car to drive with a good solid build quality and with individual styling.