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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  awesome car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By sistomofadann - July 6 - 2:00 am

  its awesome fast and lots of funplus the girlies love it

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  More Bang 4 The $ - 2003 Acura RSX
  By geofkent - July 3 - 2:00 am

  My last performance car was a BMW Z3. It proved to be too impracticle for most purposes so it had to go. I wanted to find a car with the same performance but usable interior and trunk space. Well, I found it! The engine, transmission (6speed) and brakes/suspension are all world-class. Plus, you can actually haul stuff with it. Lots of stuff. Oh, buy the way did I mention? It runs like it looks...FANTASTIC!

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  The best car Ive owned - 2003 Acura RSX
  By MattsRSX - July 2 - 2:00 am

  I was in the market for a new car because my 98 Audi A4 1.8T was dying at 86,000 miles. Another A4 was tempting but too expensive and unreliable. I wanted something fast, fun and somewhat practical. I was flipping through a magazine when I came accross the RSX Type S. 200 hp 2.0 liter engine, 6 speed tranny, Car and Driver 10Best. Wait a sec...this car is only $23k! I picked up my Artic Blue Pearl RSX Type S on Friday, June 27th and I am in love. I can get 30 mpg and still smoke a V8 Mustang.

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  my RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Jon687 - July 2 - 2:00 am

  This is a fun car to drive, but i have had it in the shop a few times. The glove box door was loose, window came off track, dead headlight and the leather seats are cracking an wearing out, car is a bit noisy on the road.

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  Not as good as you think... - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Shemy - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this car in Jan. 2003 after crashing my Beetle earlier that month. I chose the RSX-S because of its performance. I was very disapointed with 4 things: the first is that the gas mileage isnt true, the second is that after 5000 miles of driving it doesnt grip to the road as good as it did when I purchased it, the third is that the insurance is too high for this vehicle & last but not least, if Acura was smart they would put another 20 lbs of tourque for better peeling power with less RPM.

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  excellent in all areas - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Marwin - June 26 - 2:00 am

  I was not prepared to feel the power of the IVtech engine. The long distance drives are more fun with the BOSE stereo system. My last car was a Camaro.

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  Midnight Maraurder - 2003 Acura RSX
  By CJ Majesty - June 25 - 2:00 am

  This car takes corners effortlessly, it has decent amount of power on tap, silky smooth transmission the seats are comfortable & supportive. The ride is comfortable .........until you hit a bump, Steering is firm & direct. The car feels very stable at high speeds. The Bose sound system is not as bad as people say it is depending on the quality of the CD & the signal strenth of the radio. I find that visablity in the rear is blocked by the C-Pillar. But overall best car i ever had.

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  Fun Ride - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Tanderson - June 17 - 2:00 am

  Fun, fun, fun to drive. Great seating, and handling is razor sharp.

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  Great car, great deal - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Big D - June 11 - 10:00 am

  A great car that alot of people overlook, due to the name "Acura." People were surprised at the good deal I got. The base RSX was in my price range, and the Celica would have cost me significantly more. I have yet to have any problems, and it truly feels as though Acura used the BMW 3 series as a benchmark. The handling is right on par, and the subtle whine of the incredibly smooth engine also seems familiar. Overall Im glad I didnt overlook this brand. I got a great car that fits like a glove, and makes commuting to work FUN.

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  Fast Car and Lots of Fun - 2002 Acura RSX
  By thumper67 - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Good sports car for people who are tall. Plenty of room inside. Sleek and clean interior design.