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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  Got My RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By SnoopyD - May 22 - 2:00 am

  I got my new Acura RSX on x-mas. It took my 5 months to modifiy my new RSX it has 550 hp. Ive been racing my car fo 2 weeks now and it has never let me down.

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  Great buy - 2004 Acura RSX
  By ToddAT - May 18 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive. Good substitute for my Corvette as a commuting car. Great performance.

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  Acura got it right - 2002 Acura RSX
  By DPH - May 17 - 10:00 am

  Pure fun, great flexibility. Drives smooth & easy or blasts when appropriate. Smart, functional cockpit. Makes driving to work fun. Suspension just right, stiff enough to hang a corner but not jar your teeth on expansion joints. Perfect fit and finish. Only my BMW can match the gearbox for shifts and feel. Most enjoyable machine.

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  Awesome - 2002 Acura RSX
  By ChaseRSXS - May 11 - 10:00 am

  Perfect car in all ways

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  Defenatly a nice car to own - 2005 Acura RSX
  By Great Fun Car - May 2 - 10:00 am

  If your looking for an import, this is it. for the horsepower you get and the sportiness of the car,it surpasses the price you pay for this car. Acura has a great reliable name of honda right behind them.

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  Fix the new lights like the old ones - 2005 Acura RSX
  By THISisMYname - May 2 - 10:00 am

  This car has kick to it. The only draw back for me is to find the right color, cuz they sell so well.

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  LOVE IT - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Joanna70o4 - April 6 - 2:00 am

  I just got this car in May and I love it. Its a good size but I must admit it is tight in the back. I wouldnt recommend it as a family car. This is car is more for 2 people not 4 its way too tight.

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  Super fast - 2002 Acura RSX
  By KathyFG - April 4 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car--sports car performance (especially acceleration) with luxury interior (leather, sunroof, auto climate control). It sure takes off in a hurry, but totally SMOOTH. It is REALLY fun to drive. And, with Acura/Honda reliability, how can you go wrong? Believe me, you will love this car. And, you wont look like an overgrown adolescent driving it either (ie, Toyota Celica).

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  Best in class!! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By ACE-RSX-S - April 4 - 10:00 am

  Before I purchased this car there was a lot of talk and rumours on the internet from which to gather information. This car more than lived up to all that. I have driven a lot of cars, even ones that were far more expensive and I feel that it is the best combination of looks, comfort, performance and even practicality with its roomy hatch configuration. With the history of Honda cars you can rest assured that personalization of this model will be very easy with all the aftermarket interest. You simply cant buy a better car for the money and in many cases for more money. Two thumbs up!!

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  Great Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By jaydedme - April 4 - 10:00 am

  This car is very dependable..