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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What a beautiful, outstanding car - 2004 Acura RSX
By TheKater - September 30 - 2:00 amI love my RSX so much. Its very stylish, has good performance, and it makes my friends jealous! The automatic Sportshift thing is fun to play with, but not necessarily useful, at least to me.
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RSX Type-S - 2004 Acura RSX
By Jbart - September 24 - 2:00 amI just purchased my type-s a few weeks ago and absolutely love it. I must say, anyone in the market for an affordable sports car should look no further. The engine is so addicting that you find yourself constantly pushing it to the red just to feel the boost of the v-tec put you back in your seat. As if thats not enough, leather racing seats that hug you, close throw 6spd. and a bose system....it is awesome!
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Great Car - 2002 Acura RSX
By rsxtypesi4 - September 22 - 10:00 amAmazing Vehicle. When buying a type-s the only thing lacking is comfortability but anyone buying a performance oriented vehicle should know the suspension is stiff. Amazing Car.
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A Blast to Drive! - 2002 Acura RSX
By bigbbryan - August 16 - 10:00 amWhat can I say? I love this car. Chicks love this car. Does anything else really matter? Granted, its not the fastest or most luxurious car on the street, but for $23,000 theres nothing out there that can beat it. I looked at Celicas, Eclipses, and every other car in its class and nothing even compares. Celicas are way too pricy for what you get and Eclipses are too junky. This is a $23,000 car that looks better than most $30-35,000 cars. If your looking to get the most out of your money youve got to go with the RSX.
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Solid - 2004 Acura RSX
By alejonio - August 12 - 2:00 amI have had the car for 30k miles. I used to have a civic, and I wnated the reliability of it, but more stylish design. The RSX is what I wanted, love the design, inside and out, and the quality is super. This is by far the best on its price range. Actually, I think a type-s is better, overall, than the Audi-TT or Mercedes-SLK, but 20k cheaper!
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Perfect car for young single guy - 2002 Acura RSX
By AcuraGuy - August 5 - 10:00 amI researched several vehicles before looking at the RSX but fell in love with it when I test drove it. Bought it a week later and havent regretted my decision. Ive now had my Acura for a month and put nearly 3,000 miles on the car already. Absolutely no problems other than an alignment issue that the dealership immediately took care of. Great power, superb handling, and fantastic styling are tradmarks of car. I have had several strangers come up and tell me they love my car. Not that I crave attention but being 25 and having girls come up and strike up conversation about my car is a plus. Get a spoiler...its worth the couple hundred dollars.
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Disappointed - 2003 Acura RSX
By roenick - July 24 - 2:00 amThought I would be getting better performance but in the end,this car is not so quick. Ive decided to trade in for a WRX which is much quicker, more fun to drive, and has AWD system. There are superior cars out there at this price level - make sure you shop around and dont get lured in by a commercial that makes the RSX seem like a sports car. Its not.
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2002 RSX - S - 2003 Acura RSX
By Fele - June 17 - 2:00 amBoughth mine in July 2001 (first batch). Car is excellent and very fun to drive (I love the 6 speed shifter). I had trouble with leather on my car seat (Acura replaced it). Otherwise had no other problems with it. Highly recomend for the price.
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Just plain AWESOME! - 2003 Acura RSX
By Omi Oh My - June 5 - 10:00 amAfter drooling over the pictures in the brochure and staring at every other RSX on the road, I finally got my own beautiful Arctic Blue Pearl Type-S. This car is incredible. The interior is classy and refined, and the exterior a joy to look at. The ride and performance are excellent, made all the more enjoyable by the sound of the exhaust. For the money, there is no better alternative.
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bang for the buck - 2003 Acura RSX
By madjoe - June 5 - 10:00 ami am a master auto tech and this is by far the most fun car ive driven in 10 12 years of driving.the shifting is effortless and it handles like a M3 but half the price. all i have to say is 100 H.P. per liter naturally aspirated.unreal if everyone could do that the morning commute would be a pole position. go drive one and see for yourself. P.S. chicks are drawn to this one.
