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:

• 

  go vtec - 2005 Acura RSX
  By techfun - February 7 - 10:00 am

  I just picked up my 05 RSX type S. This car has some new features that greatly improve the vehicle over the 04 model. The new headlights and tail lights look much sharper, and the lowered body adds not only cosmetically, but aids tremendously in the handling department. New for 05 are 17" 5 spoke wheels that look outstanding. They have also added a larger exhaust tip, which sounds like a formula 1 vehicle. So much fun to drive revving the vtec up over 8k. Im a previous Civic SI owner, which was stolen, and wanted to step up to the next level. This car does not disappoint.

• 

  Type-S 12k miles - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Tollu - January 29 - 10:00 am

  Very very fun car to drive. Very positive reaction from the ladies.

• 

  The RSX rocks - 2002 Acura RSX
  By rkelly4384 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Dont be mislead by the base RSXs 160hp. Its definetly not a V6, but being as light as it is (2700lbs) it accelerates beautifly. I had considered the eclipse and celica and I must agree with motor trend the rsx kills the competition. Its the best four cylinder Ive ever driven, riden or seen.

• 

  dissapointed - 2003 Acura RSX
  By boffman - December 17 - 10:00 am

  ergonomics of this car become more annoying the longer you own it. the grey rims are ugly. you get used to the performance and bored very quickly. not a great tourer for long trips to the beach. no arm rest gets to be nuisance after the novelty of a new car wears off. i am trading it in for a 320 kompressor coupe.

• 

  Fun to drive and exceptional quality - 2004 Acura RSX
  By TampaMaggie - December 6 - 10:00 am

  I have almost owned my RSX for 1 year and just love it! It handles well during acceleration and cornering, it feels sporty to drive, and gets great gas mileage. I also love the large amount of cargo room in the rear hatch - it has the sporty feel of a much smaller car, without making you feel like you are driving a couple of inches off the ground, where no other cars around you can even see you. Fast and fun!

• 

  rsx-s - 2002 Acura RSX
  By comanchep - November 28 - 10:00 am

  At exactly 1500 miles the syncros in 3rd gear totally went out. the dealership gave me (immediately) a rsx loaner, next day aired a replacement tranny, and installed it without a scratch. I enjoyed driving the non S-Type with automatic for comparison and was back in business within 24 hours. Very satisfied. No other problems (5590Miles now) Milage with very hard driving style-28-29mpg. LOVE THE INTERIOR . Worst value is the stereo. No "highs" No "Lows" it must be "BOSE". No Volume either.

• 

  The truth - 2003 Acura RSX
  By bt2000 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I recently bought an RSX premium. Im satisfied with the comfort and the sportiness. Leather, heated seats and AC system are really usefull/good. My friends all like it. The car is easy to park. Some friends comment on the lack of base in the sound system, the difficulty of access and the lack of head room in the back seats (oh well). The engine purrs nicely, the AT trans. seems to shift at 3000+rpm meening accel is not that fast. In TripManual its better but still not amazingly fast off the mark. maybe Im expacting too much from a 4 cyl. Other than those little things, everything kicks ass in the RSX.

• 

  The Greatest - 2003 Acura RSX
  By ashley052688 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  This is the best car you could own!

• 

  RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Jon Spiropolous - October 21 - 8:43 pm

  fun to drive,speedy,luxurious

• 

  A well rounded sports coupe - 2002 Acura RSX
  By tnguyen74 - September 3 - 10:00 am

  A well rounded overall sports coupe with 200 HP w/o the use of turbos and still gets 30 MPG. The smoothest shifting 6-spd Ive ever driven. Love the interior layout and instrumentation.