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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  Nice car, needs some improvement - 2002 Acura RSX
  By chrisnick - June 27 - 2:00 am

  i love my RSX. its a great car. i used to drive from toledo to detroit everyday, so my RSX now has almost 78000 miles. it runs perfect, and have only had to do minor maintence, except for some transmission wear issues. when the original air filter was dirty, i replaced it with an Injen Short Ram air intake system which really helped the car out. it sounds excellent, but city mileage has decreased slightly. the car is plenty quick at the top end, but low-end torque is lacking. more displacement would be great, as well as a screw- type supercharger. i also have energy suspension motor mount inserts that really helped the wheel hop problem.

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  I love my RSX-S - 2002 Acura RSX
  By CodeToad - June 26 - 5:50 am

  This car is simply a ball. Its very quick, the interior is very nice, and the six speed is simply fun. To sum the car in one word: FUN!

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  Acura Sucks - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Matthew Stewart - June 24 - 2:00 am

  The enigne block was cracked after 5,500 miles. I took it in becuase it was leaking oil. They replaced the oil filter. Still something wrong so they had to "call" Acura to find out the small block was cracked. Seriously. It took 17 days to fix and when I was intially told I could get it the dealer said my car was not ready because my engine was "laying in pieces on the floor". Not a comforting thought. They clutch just went out at 45,000 miles and they would not replace it for free because it is a wearable part. Well, I guess the enigne is "wearable" too but it still does not go bad after 5,500 miles. The seal around the drivers door was coming undone.

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  Dazzled, amazed, and absolutely giddy! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Speedgirlie - June 23 - 2:00 am

  I found the RSX to be very unassuming. It didnt look excessively showy or overly flashy. I really liked that, kind of like a wolf in sheeps clothing... I swore Id never own a Honda product, even though they have an excellent reputation. An Acura was as close as I could bring myself to a Honda. The car is a blast to drive, it makes even the most mundane errand enjoyable. Insurance is high on this car, but when you factor in the shear delight you will get from driving the RSX, it suddenly seems worth the added expense!

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  Icemans ride - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Tadpole - June 22 - 2:00 am

  When i first got in it we were like family

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  THIS CAR IS HOT! and ON THE ROAD, HOTTER - 2004 Acura RSX
  By JAZZY - June 22 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS MY FIRST TIME WITH ACURA, MAZDA HAD ME FOR 6 YEARS. BUT THE RSX, MAKES YOU FEEL YOUR DRIVING AN EXPENSIVE FOREIGN SPORTS CAR. SUSPENSION IS FIRM, on THE ROAD IT HUGS IT. ENGINE IS SUPER FINE AND QUICK VERY QUICK! INTERIOR IS BUILT LIKE A COCKPIT JUST SIT BACK AND FLY DOWN THE ROAD. NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD WANT A HATCHBACK, BUT ITS SO ROOMY, MY MILANO RED SEEMS TO DRAW ATTENTION FROM EVERYONE, FROM KIDS 18 TO SENIORS 65 AND OLDER. LAST BUT NOT THE LEAST IS THE "SPORTS SEQUENTIAL" TRANNY... I LOVE IT. AUTOMATIC WHEN I WANT and MANUAL WHEN I AM READY TO PLAY. FANTASTIC! ACURA HAS ME FOR THE NEXT 3 YEARS, AND MORE IF THEY KEEP IT UP. CHAS L. BKLYN NY

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  Incredible - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Lego - June 21 - 2:46 am

  It drives like a dream. You have to test drive it.

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  Excellent - 2003 Acura RSX
  By nosajls - June 18 - 2:00 am

  Ever since I saw the rsx-s I wanted one and when I finally got one my expectations were not desived. This is one of the best cars I have ever driven and I love the sporty looks and it handles perfectly. I highly recomend driving one if you get the chance!!!

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  Pimpin car!!! - 2004 Acura RSX
  By JNH - June 18 - 2:00 am

  Great car all around. Cant beat its performance for the price. Also, its great for the import tuning industries.

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  An amazing deal - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Schowtyme - June 17 - 2:00 am

  I got this car a little over a month ago and I am so impressed I will probably never stray from Acura in the future. Acura is owned by Honda, and my family owns 3 Civics between them with about 400,000 miles on the cars and none of them have had any major problems. So in purchasing the Acura I felt very comfortable about the quality, but after a month of driving this car I can honestly say it is underpriced. The handling is superb, everything in the interior is well made and it feels like a luxury car for under $20k. The only problem I have noticed so far is that the stereo is not the greatest and the rear seat is a little cramped for an adult.