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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  I Want My Integra - 2002 Acura RSX
  By BelieveMeIveLooked - June 6 - 10:00 am

  Ive driven Integras for 13 years so I was excited when the RSX came out. On paper, I liked everything about it: gas mileage, features, etc. But, in person, the car is smaller than my 91 Integra--I felt like I was getting in a coffin. Im only 5-10 and 160 so dont think its my size. Good performance, but I just couldnt get over how much I longed for my Integra.

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  Roomy thrill with cash to spare - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Unemongod - June 2 - 7:36 pm

  After trying on 40+ cars over the last 9 monthes, this was one of 2 cars that made the grade. (The other was the Acura MDX) Its a comfortable ride for those of us who cant fit in most other cars. Im 64" and moderately knock-kneed, which gives me leg room issues. The RSX fits like a glove, like only Honda seems to understand. The car drives like a car should, with a clean feel of the road, and a hi-revving powerplant that is truely another Honda marvel. There is more comfort and room than most sedans, and still the thrill of a sport coupe.

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  the problem car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By j .huddleston - June 2 - 2:00 am

  i have had the car in the shop like 20 times. the transmission been pulled out 3 times. ive had it in for abs problems 3 times. the motor idles really rough. and alot of little things have gon bad.

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  One of the best cars Ive driven! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Triston - May 30 - 12:43 pm

  Very good handling and acceleration. Comfortable except for some harsh bumps.

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  Best decision Ive ever made - 2002 Acura RSX
  By DC5driver - May 30 - 2:00 am

  This car is awesome. What caught my attention was the styling. The exterior is so sleek, and the interior design is very classy. The dash glows red at night which is so different than other vehicles. Performance is decent, 0-60 in 6.7 and 1/4 mile in 15.5. It gets a few looks everytime I go out. Im definitely not regretting this purchase.

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  EXCELLENT AUTO - 2002 Acura RSX
  By lmsjas - May 30 - 2:00 am

  PASSENGER COMPARTMENT HOLDS UP WELL IN MAJOR ACCIDENT. WAS HIT IN LEFT FRONT BUMPER WHILE STOPPED AT LIGHT CAUSING CAR TO SPIN AND MOVE TWO LANES OVER. NO DAMAGE TO INTERIOR.

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  Acura RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By whitty - May 30 - 2:00 am

  Fun car! But has a little to much road noise.Toyo tires helped quiet it down a bit. Bose factory system not as good as expected. It is real fast for a 4- banger.

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  Its a Fun Car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By username/alias - May 25 - 2:00 am

  A comfortable car for the driver and front seat passenger. Back seat is for very small adults or kids. All the room you could ever want when seats are folded down. Very economical with fuel (91 octane or better) unless you are high reving. Very sure footed in rain. It stops on a dime in all conditions thus far no matter what you have read.

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  I love this car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Greg_W - May 20 - 10:00 am

  I recently was a owner of the new nissan 350z but sold it due to the high insurance on it and gas, so I wanted a car that was resonable on gas and insurance but yet sporty. I looked at many cars but now I found as intresting as the rsx. The biggest reason was it was a really fun car to drive and it felt really fast. Ever since I purchased it I loved everything about even the 7,900 rpm red line.

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  "if you have the means..." - 2002 Acura RSX
  By the_rev - May 17 - 9:10 am

  as mr. bueller once said, "if you have the means, i highly suggest you pick one up". not that this car is all that expensive... it is everything i thought my old Si should have been...