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 Ride - 2002 Acura RSX
  By RSX - July 9 - 10:00 am

  Great little car, run nice sounds great and for a decent price. The seats are very comfortable and the gages and really sharp looking. The proformance is like non-other. Bets car on the market for sport coups.

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  Enough to keep you happy - 2002 Acura RSX
  By brianm1669 - July 9 - 10:00 am

  The standard RSX is not the fastest, best looking, or most nimble car out there, but it does all of the above pretty darn well. The acceleration, cornering and breaking are all above average. The ultimate reason for purchasing this car was reliability and performance. I know that the car will likely not have many problems and the car will likely perform similar to what it does now three years from now. The engine is pedestrian while at lower speeds, but the horses really kick in when the rpms go above 5000.

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  Great Car! - 2004 Acura RSX
  By TypeSGirly - July 6 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! I have had more fun with this than any other car!!! Great Value and Great Fun!!!

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  I love my car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By wonit - July 6 - 10:00 am

  There is no doubt in my mind that I made a good choice with this vehicle. I love to drive and everyone time I get into the vehicle, I am overcome with joy. It is a lot of fun and it looks awesome.

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  I LOVE MY RSX-S - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Abs - July 6 - 10:00 am

  I just bought a new rsx-s in February, and I am in love with this car. The handling is amazing, and the bucket seats hold your body while taking sharp turns. The interior is very functional, and the sound system is excellent. I find myself smiling every time Im about to get into this car for a drive. The shifting is really smooth and quick, and i love the hovering sound the engine makes at high rpms.

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  Great Car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By wigs - July 6 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for a little over a year and a half and have nothing but nice things to say. I consider this car the poor mans Porsche. I have done minor things to the intake and have put more aggressive tires on it and the car, unbelievably, became even more fun to drive. If you are considering buying on of these do not hesitate. It is just a blast.

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  Very Happy - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Melanie - July 6 - 10:00 am

  This was the best purchase I ever made. I love this car. I haggled over price to the point of obnoxiousness but I got what I wanted. The car is perfect.

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  80,000 miles never let me down - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Anthony - July 5 - 11:03 am

  Overall a great car with Honda reliability a lot of performance in the sub 25k category, Car and Drivers 10 Best list, and finished 1st place in a 5 car comparison beating wrx, neon srt etc. In a recent trip to Boston got 31mpg in mixed hwy driving. I shoved a 42 Plasma tv in the trunk while still in the box with rear seats folded down. My only gripe was had to replace oxygen sensor at 75000 miles and it was pricey.

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  Great Car - 2006 Acura RSX
  By Sean - July 1 - 2:48 pm

  I bought my White Pearl RSX Type-S back in 2006 right before they were discontinued. I unfortunately have to trade in due to expecting child...I love this car and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys and would appreciate a fun, reliable compact sports car. Acura really hit the nail on the head with the exterior design. My only complaint is the 201 bhp. If it had around 260 bhp I would have been much happier so I could smoke those cheap SS cobalts and SRT- 4s you see all over the road. In all the car is great and I am sad to see it go. If I could I would definitely keep the car. Sound system is unbelievable handling is great car is just perfect to drive since I put 30k/yr on it.

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  RSX RIPPER - 2002 Acura RSX
  By mofo187 - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car with high intent for performance. When the rpm reaches 6, it roars.