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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  Completely satisfied with RSX - 2002 Acura RSX
  By EB - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. Its quick, its stylish, the seats are really comfortable, there are just so many little details about the car that make it that much more awesome.

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  Nothing Better - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Lorenza - August 23 - 10:00 am

  I bought my first Type-S in March, a silver one w/ a spoiler and then in June I bought an identical black one.. what can i say, i look this car. this is my first time driving manuel, and its so easy. i driven other maunel cars since then and nothing compares. its very sleek. Ive put in a system, tints and chrome rims on the cars since ive got them and they look awesome

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  Great car!! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Rob121 - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I really ejoy this car because it has clean lines and is great on gas.

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  Fun to drive, reliable, great car! - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Ryanoby - August 11 - 2:00 am

  I drove a lot of cars in this price range before deciding on the RSX. You get so much more car for the price, you cant beat it! Of the two doors out there, the Eclipse and the Celica are the only real competition - both are much more expensive. The Ecliipse has questionable quality and the Celica is a little too stylistic for my taste! I also drove the new Accord coupe - which completely lacked the sporting character of the RSX. All is all, I couldnt be happier.

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  Good car for the money - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Johhny Depp - August 10 - 5:06 am

  Compared to some of the other cars of comparable size and cost, the Acura RSX is by far the best value. I can tell you that for a 2.0L engine, this car has a lot of zip. The Acura name gives people the impression of a vehicle with class, which is one of the reasons we are on our second Acura lease (previously had a 1999 Acura CL).

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  Nice Ride - 2003 Acura RSX
  By RJ Canuk - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Great car to drive, its a ride. Many freinds have tried the car and all have one response, they cant believe how fast and with how little effort they catch up with the car in front of them. Or haw fast the car behinf is lost in te rear view mirror. And thats not even pushing the car.

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  All around great car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By khuang - August 6 - 10:00 am

  I love this car. Had it for more then 2 months now. I did a lot of research and its the best car in its class. I could have chosen Celica or WRX but the best car for me was definitely RSX Type- S. I think Celica GT-S looks better but cost more with same options as RSX. WRX is more practical and faster but i dont like the styling, and dont need the added complications of AWD and a Turbo. I ended up with RSX because its fun to drive, handles great, relatively luxurious, gets good gas mileage, and has a very reasonable price.

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  Amazing! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Avi Flax - July 29 - 11:43 am

  I just picked up the car last night and Ive already put almost 200 miles on it! Its just SUCH a BLAST to drive, and its so TIGHT, and it fits me like a GLOVE and I could go on and on and on, but I have to go for a drive!

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  2002 RSX-S - 2002 Acura RSX
  By mininsx - July 22 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. This is my third Acura, and my bajillionth Honda. I have absolutly no complaints on the car that are not just nit-picky. Overall I would buy this car 100 times over again, without hesitation. I would however choose a different dealer.

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  Fun to drive - 2004 Acura RSX
  By Aunsue - July 18 - 2:00 am

  I have thoroughly enjoyed this car and everything about it. I have not had any mechanical problems, just standard maintence like oil changes and rotating and balancing the tires. I have found that it is easy to drive, and so has everyone else who has driven it. It is a great car.