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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  my rsx - 2004 Acura RSX
  By kwik - September 13 - 2:00 am

  my rsx is so cool, i wish everyone had one. with its stylish seats and powerful engine, it is a great choice for the family man. i can race anybody out there and come out the winner.

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  RSX Base Review (Auto) - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Silver DC5 - September 12 - 2:00 am

  Being the owner of the Base Auto RSX, all I can really say overall about this car is its a wonderful driving experience. The automatic Base version of the RSX drives very smoothly and I would recommend it to anybody looking for a sporty and aggressive-looking daily driver car. This car has great handling, excellent brakes, a sporty suspension and great fuel-economy as well. If youre a sport-compact car fanatic, I seriously recommend the RSX, especially the Type-S.

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  I love my Car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By cutychuchu - September 10 - 2:00 am

  This car was what i wanted my first car to be but instead i got a mitsubishi eclipse GSX it was fun and great but ever since i purchase this car everything is great its realiable it take 87 gas and it people always complement what a nice car i have. I love this car!!

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  Best sports coupe for under $30k - 2002 Acura RSX
  By MattsTypeS - September 8 - 2:00 am

  For under $25k you cant beat the features, looks and performance. The Acura name just sweetens the deal. Putting these features and performance in a BMW or Benz and it will cost $10k more.

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  RSX TYPE-S - 2003 Acura RSX
  By dan nguyen - September 6 - 2:00 am

  FACTORY TIRE WALL IS TOO THIN, WHEN YOU DECELARATE AT THE SPEED OF 100 MPH PLUS THE REAR SEEM TO BE SWAYING AT BIT.

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  Acura rsx rating - 2003 Acura RSX
  By rsx e kc - September 6 - 2:00 am

  fun to drive beautiful to look at,... i love it because its not so popular yet and i feel like im special

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  Acura RSX-S: Great All Around Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By check.mate - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my car for almost 2 years and have appx. 29000mi on the odometer. The car has had no problems and the quality has been top notch. It is very fun to drive because the engine loves to rev and you wont have any guilt driving the car fast because the gas mileage is excellent. I receive about 32mi/gal on the highway. After almost two years of owning this car, if I had to pick a new car tomorrow, I would pick the same car! Great gas mileage, more than enough handling and horsepower, great looks and Honda reliability. This is the best car Ive ever owned.

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  Here is an honest review, - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Attila - September 5 - 2:00 am

  I got the car with 15 miles on it, now it has 15,200. The car runs great, not one problem. I didnt put a ten one some ratings, but lets be honest, it doesnt have performance that of an M3 or Viper. But for its class its the best. They could have made the exterior sportier like the new Celica, but this way its not a flat out sports car, its got some elegance to it.

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  Great little coupe - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Evil Nat - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Great Engine and transmission.This car likes to be droven hard and speed. It can stop --- great brakes. Very comfortable interior for two people with a good sound system and climate controls

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  Best Value In its Class - 2002 Acura RSX
  By SailorMan - September 2 - 9:10 am

  After looking at, driving and researching Toyotas, Mazdas, Subarus and the Acura, the Acura won out. As a former owner of Honda/Acura products this car exemplifies the fun factor mixed with relatively frugal gas mileage and great dependability. The looks though controversial grow on you. Besides, this car has the best interior design and ergonomics in its class which is where as the driver Ill be spending all of my time.