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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  Quite An Improvement - 2003 Acura RSX
  By henrypeck - September 2 - 2:00 am

  Acura has hit another home run. The RSX is built like a watch. Everything works as designed. The ride is a little stiff but thats the trade off for good handling.

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  My Driving Experience - 2003 Acura RSX
  By TypeSRsx2003 - September 1 - 2:00 am

  My experience with this car has been great. I love the handling and the high revving engine. Such a small car with a powerful engine is a great combination.

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  Owned - 2002 Acura RSX
  By haevolution - August 30 - 10:00 am

  This is the sport compact car to buy, no question about it.

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  Excellent - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Debbbie - August 28 - 2:00 am

  Its a great car. It has a beautiful shape. Its extremely comfortable and convenient inside. I love the Dashboard glow, its red. I feel like Im driving a spaceship.

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  Awesome Car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By mailxsz - August 23 - 2:00 am

  Smooth And Quite! Worth the money.

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  Great Car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By gregj - August 20 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my RSX in February of 2002 and Ive enjoyed it ever since. Love the ride however they could have put better tires on it. This car radio system should have more watts. I like how the controls cater to the driver. I love this car, but Im planning to buy the 04 TL!

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  love it - 2002 Acura RSX
  By rcampbell - August 19 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. I got the stick shift. It is so fun to drive. Very quick. Best transmission Ive ever driven the thing shifts like butter. I did a ton of research on comparable cars and this was easily the best buy for my money. The Celica didnt even compare.

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  Good entry-level sports car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By retrpostage - August 18 - 2:00 am

  The good: acceleration, reliability, tight suspension. The bad: audio system, road noise. The ugly: insurance rates. This is a remarkable car. The S- type is a better sports car, but less practical if you live in an urban center. Tall 3rd gear is a lifesaver during rush hour. It’s a good car to learn or refine your manual driving skills. “Precise” is the keyword for a RSX. Because this car is marketed to the 20 something crowd, insurance rates are high (if you’re under 25, expect your monthly insurance rate to be half of your car payment). Visit an RSX forum to hunt for a good dealer. Overall, no car comes close the RSX for the price.

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  Nice Car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Seans 1st car - August 14 - 2:00 am

  Lets be honest it is a 20,000 dollar car so it is not going to come near something like a porsche or lamborgini. That being said, the rsx destroys almost all its competion, the only thing that comes close (in its price range) is an RX8 and it loses. THis car is extremely responsive fun and to top it out gets great milage. If your looking for a car in this price range look no further

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  Best Sports Car for Your $ - 2002 Acura RSX
  By J. Logan - August 13 - 2:00 am

  At its price range, it is the best 2 door coupe you can get. Engine with a lot of power despite being a 4 cyl., Acura styling and accesories.