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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  I should of held to the 2005 RSX-S model - 2004 Acura RSX
  By marksviper - August 28 - 2:00 am

  I really love the car. Its Fast, sterring is unbleiveable when turning tight corners going about 70 and then downshifting in to the corner very smooth. No problems at this time.

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  Great Car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By A.E. - August 27 - 2:00 am

  This car should receive a ten for all categories due to its potential...

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  Acura/Hondas Rule the World! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By umbclacrosse - August 25 - 2:00 am

  This car is the best for the under 25K coupe class. Great performance, car is as solid as a vault and you know re- sale value and long-term reliability are a given.

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  Fantastic Car for the Price - 2002 Acura RSX
  By SomeRSXGuy - August 22 - 4:43 pm

  Its too bad there wasnt a better registration system for being able to write a review. The people that give this car really bad marks probably dont even own one. Most of them are probably Subaru WRX fanboys (and they probably dont own one of those either.) The RSX Premium (Canadian model) is a fantastic value. I love our car...

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  This car sounds great - 2004 Acura RSX
  By squarefoot - August 20 - 2:00 am

  The car really has a pleasant howl above 6500 rpm and the 6-speed makes it a breeze to keep it singing. The interior is high quality and elegant in its simplicity and execution. While not blisteringly fast it is quick enough to be fun and my mileage has been in the 30 mpg range. I found it to be faster and less expensive than a similar cooper-s or celica GT- S. Unlike some I feel the suspension is plenty stiff and responsive, if you want more try the A-spec

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  I love this car! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Dylan - August 19 - 3:10 am

  What an amazing car. I am in love with this thing. Words are a waste of time. You have to go drive it.

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  Youll love this car!!! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Mike001 - August 18 - 10:00 am

  This car is addictive. I have been test driving cars for 6 months, and I didnt test drive this one right away because the review ("sport coup comparason") in Edmonds said there was some rear suspension problem. Well there isnt, at all, I dont know what they were taliking about. Anyway, I test drove Lexus IS 400, BMW 330i, Nissan spec V, Suburu WRX, and some others, and this was easily the most fun to drive, and some of those others were almost twice the price, HA! In fact, this is the most fun car I have ever driven (and my last two cars were a 1999 Ford Mustang Cobra and a 1997 BMW 540i) Anyway, just test drive it, youll see, its awesome!

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  should have known... - 2002 Acura RSX
  By not2impressed - August 18 - 10:00 am

  I test drove the RSX last week expecting to fall in love with it. It didnt happen. I thought the handling was above average even at higher speeds. It looks great inside and out. The 4cyl. performance was quite decent. Overall I have to say that its a nice toy. On the other hand the visibility is horrible, the seats are uncomfortable as the lumbar support is too prominent and the seat itself (not the back) is too short for taller people. I also didnt care for the layout of the controls.

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  Pocket Rocket - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Profet - August 13 - 3:50 am

  This is the car to get if you think the new Civic SI looks like a Mini-Mini-Van.

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  Awesome Car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Astrodude2 - August 13 - 2:00 am

  I just bought the RSX type S and I have to say my daily commute just got a lot more fun and exciting. Why would anyone pay more money for the 350Z, because the Acura has a much smoother ride and costs less. Ive owned Acuras before and Ive been asking myself "why did I ever stray?"? I need to take time and read the manual and learn about the car, but who can stop driving it? Id definately suggest this car to anyone. Acuras quality and reliability are legendary.