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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  Dont take it to the mountains - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Mustard - July 17 - 2:00 am

  My radiator blew half way up Pikes Peak highway during a vacation to Colorado. My RSX was only 5 months old. We had to have it towed down the mountain and to a local dealership. It was fixed, but not before half of our trip was ruined. The worst experience was trying to deal with the Acura Roadside Assistance people to get reimbursed for some of our travel losses. After speaking to several people, none of whom cared, and writing a long letter detailing my experience, I finally received a short response that said little more than "go to hell". The car has been adequate since, but this experience will keep me from buying another one.

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  I LOVE MY RSX!!!! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Megster - July 17 - 2:00 am

  After looking into Celicas, Eclipses, Civics, and RSXs, I finally chose the RSX. This car has been the best car I have ever had! It is quick, sporty, and extremely reliable and fuel efficient. I have had absolutely NO trouble with my RSX, and have found Acuras customer service excellent.

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  Well worth it - 2003 Acura RSX
  By KKN74 - July 16 - 2:00 am

  Purchased a couple months ago a Type- S. Fun to Drive, great interior (though center armrest area could be better), hatchback is convienient, and handles very well.

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  I love this car! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Truckondo - July 13 - 2:00 am

  I got the car a couple of months ago and Im still never tired of driving it. I almost got the auto because I didnt know how to drive a stick. Im glad I made the effort to learn because once you go manual, you never want to go back. I seem to get a lot of "lookers" around my car too. Freeway on-ramp are so much fun now!

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  Great car, fun to drive - 2003 Acura RSX
  By avprogramer - July 13 - 2:00 am

  More torque will be nice.

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  Da Best Car There Is - 2003 Acura RSX
  By kekau - July 13 - 2:00 am

  This car offers luxury and comfort right from behind the same company that brought us the Acura Integra. Its sporty look combined with its performance offers more than meets the eye. The Acura RSX is trully one a kind car that should be a part of every adventurers repetoire.

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  Great Affordable Sports Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By mikew - July 12 - 2:00 am

  Bought this car almost a year ago. Fun to drive, great handling and good power for a 4cyl. Can be noisy on highway, but not that bad. Great car for the price we paid.

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  Great Ride - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Steve H - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I upgraded from an Integra GSR to this baby in March, and Im amazed at the improvement from the Teg to this car. This car has just about everything I wanted, from a nice interior to an engine that wailed like a banshee. (Gotta love that 8000 rpm redline combined with i-vtec). This car also crushes most of its competition performance wise...Toyota, Mitsu, VW and Hyundais competition for this car is chopped liver as far as Im concerned. And while Subarus WRX is slightly faster, step into the interior or look at it from outside and ask yourself if you really want to be seen in that car.

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  rsx - dream to drive - 2002 Acura RSX
  By ShadowRSX - July 8 - 1:26 am

  What can i say -- ive had mine since October -- and i still love to drive it around! Well worth the monthly payments ;-)

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  fun to drive - 2003 Acura RSX
  By drvr77 - July 7 - 2:00 am

  this car is extremely fun to drive. good quality interior, designed to surround the driver. well bolstered seats, fine leather material that offers good comfort and lumbar support. bose stereo does a fine job,although maybe not par for those seeking aftermarket subwoofer lows, but fine for us folks appreciated quality, clear music. climate control works wonderfully, very powerful. the nightime dash lights are a wonderful red, making the gauges easily readable. the shifter is effortlessly moved from gear to gear, making full use of the engine. has everything a 25yr old guy needs who has fun to drive, practicality and reliability on his mind.