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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  fun to drive - 2004 Acura RSX
  By BETA - July 6 - 2:00 am

  Great little car could have a little less road noise. ALSO Acura what about a soft top model Honda has the 2000.

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  Acura needs to fix transmission problem - 2004 Acura RSX
  By lizardgizzard - July 5 - 2:00 am

  I just traded in my RSX-S (9700 miles) and was glad to do it. Ever since I bought the car I have had transmission problems with grinding from 1st to 2nd and with 2nd to 3rd gears. Sometimes I was unable to get 3rd gear to engage without forcing it into gear. I then contacted the dealership for warranty repair for the problem and they would not fix it. They stated the problem was not bad enough and had to completely fail and strand me in the middle of no where, before they would fix it. Over all the rest of the vehicle is well built, but I would suggest dont buy one until Acura can fix the transmission problems or buy a used Integra.

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  Screamer - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Mister Gus - July 3 - 4:43 pm

  A blast to drive & Honda/Acura reliability

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  RSX Type S - 2004 Acura RSX
  By rgvivace - July 3 - 2:00 am

  I loved my 2000 Ford Focus ZX3 5-speed: brilliant steering and magic, compliant long-travel suspension. Wanted SVT Focus, but none available. Acura offered a GREAT lease deal: $1k down included 1st mo, 48mo @$275 w/tax for RSX-S w/15k miles/yr. Mazda 3S hatchback nice but only $9/mo less than better performing/feature-laden RSX-S. Mini S nice but too small, too $$. Best feature: tan leather, high-quality interior vs. cloth in coal-bin black. Type S = fabulous performance (esp. engine/6 speed), but rather too stiff & frenetic. Comfy seats, well bolstered. Why dont they put better, stickier tires on these??? Best-in- class bang-for-buck.

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  Awesome Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By rsxlover - July 2 - 9:50 pm

  Most bang for the buck, by far.....awesome fun to drive car.

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  Great car, but needs improvement - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Courbu - July 2 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car for the money. The interior is beautiful in its simplicity, the stereo is perfect, and its fun to drive. I still cant get used to the weird body design since I had two Integras before it that were frankly much easier on the eye. However, the driver-oriented interior more than makes up for it. The perforated leather seats are very sporty and elegant. The engine on this little car is great & kicks in if you know how to drive a stick correctly. It is also SO reliable! Ive never had ONE problem w/ any of the 4 Acuras Ive owned.

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  RSX Type S is a great car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By A great car - June 30 - 2:00 am

  this is a great car. I am a previous owner on a VW VR6 and I feel like the RSX type S is worth the money. The VW gave me so much problem that I had to give up on it(good acc. and power but piece of junk things starts to fall apart on the first half of the year). with the rsx type S, I feel the boost without having to waste money of paying for an expensive car. car havent gave me any trouble yet and show no sign what so ever. fun to drive. Great exterior design and handling. overall great car. very happy with the buy.

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  Great Coupe Car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Jadey - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Its a great car for a great price, knowing it is an acura i feel also safe in it.

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  1.5 Year Update - 2003 Acura RSX
  By S_T_S - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my RSX-S for about 18 months and found it to be very reliable and great on gas (26-33) even if you thrash it. Great interior design and the hatchback provides loads of space. However, some things are starting to annoy me: The seats are great for holding you place around corners, but get painful after about 1 hour as they are hard and flat, Third gear can be hard to engage, The engine basically makes little power until 6K and after that gets really loud, Stock tires squeal around even moderate speed turns.

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  Fun & Sporty with Elegance & Quality - 2004 Acura RSX
  By California Girl - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I owned a Toyota Corolla GTS for 19 years and 300,000 miles and was hoping to buy another Toyota but the Celica rode like a bucket. Researched for two months and this is the best car for what you get. Many wonderful amenities and its just plain fun to drive, plus the styling is elegant for a sports car.