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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  almost 2 years - 2003 Acura RSX
  By acura owner - October 27 - 2:00 am

  excellent investment overall...i used to own a 94 integra 4-dr before the rsx, and i absolutely loved it too, which is why i decided to get another acura...reliability...

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  Nice, but youll want more - 2003 Acura RSX
  By minus9 - October 19 - 2:00 am

  I wanted a sporty 2-door and the RSX was the nicest. It beat the Celica, the Civic Si, the Tiburon, etc. You get Honda reliability. You get great milage. But after a year, the car rattles like crazy and I wish that I had more power and more smoothness. Save up and get the Infinity G35 and youll be happier in the long run. Youll soon outgrow the 2-doors and wish for more space if this is your only car.

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  RSX Type S - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Joe_McNabb - October 16 - 8:06 am

  Car is amazingly fun.

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  Reliable, Fun Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Bcpatters - October 15 - 2:00 am

  Have owned many cars, but owning this car has been one of the best experiences Ive had yet. It has worked flawlessly, is fun to drive (5 sp), and gets great mileage on reg gas (29 mpg avg, 34 on trips). Only complaint is excessive road noise - only a problem at freeway speeds. Engine and wind noise are minimal.

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  Cool Get Around Car! - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Vouthanack - October 11 - 2:00 am

  I traded my 99 honda accord v6 for this car I fell in love with about 8 months ago. The beautiful black exterior paint seems to look nicer than most other cars, to include the black interior. REVVING this car up is not a problem. Easy to steer around, and a lot of front visibility. The looks of the car need to be re-vampped at the very back end of the car (because it looks cut in half). Comfortable sound system with the ease of an in dash 6 disc CD changer makes highway driving less work. The rear seats are good for putting objects in, but NOT big people! Love the red lighted interior, Acura did not go wrong with that!

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  New RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By BillR - October 9 - 1:56 am

  Nice solid riding car!

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  RSX type S - 2004 Acura RSX
  By PMPIN8easy21 - October 7 - 2:00 am

  When i went looking for a car i wanted a dependable, fast performance car and thats what i have gotten with the RSX-S

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  All I can say is WOW! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Calladin - October 5 - 7:20 pm

  This car is an absolute joy to drive. It has a real nice zip to it, especially when you hit v-tec. It handles like a dream, and the 6-speed transmission (Type-S) shifts like butter. Ive had this car for 3 weeks, and so far I dont have anything negative to say about it. The dealership experience was great! I didnt have to haggle much on the price, and was in and out in less than 2 hours. It was by far the best car buying experience I have ever had.

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  Great Ride - 2004 Acura RSX
  By YurAvgJoe - October 1 - 2:00 am

  I looked at cars in this class for six months before making my final decision with the Type S. This is a race car waiting to drive. Im constantly looking for reasons to take this thing down the block. Smooth ride, powerful sound when you start the engine, and all the power you need under the hood. The acceleration will put you back in your fine leather seats.

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  Great Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By mrbrett - September 29 - 9:56 pm

  This is a great car, it has a great balance of performance and luxury.