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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Love It! - 2003 Acura RSX
By robbiefresno - May 12 - 10:00 amLove the car. Looks great. Drives Great. Nice and tight ride with a very responsive engine. Friends are impressed. I take Mulholland Drive home from work now just so I can drive the curves. The stereo does need to be played loud to get the bass but hey, this car is for sporty people with sporty tastes.
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Wolf In Sheeps Clothing! - 2004 Acura RSX
By MGLUVZRSXS - April 19 - 10:00 amWhat a find! I was not so sure about the body style. Hesitated even looking at it because it was so plain. But then, WOW, when I got behind the wheel I discovered the surprise is under the hood. So unassuming yet so much of a machine. I also tested a Toyota Celica GT the same day, the salesman had to jump start the car, then the gas tank was on flashing empty and the engine sounded like a piece of crap. My new Acura is the best car I have ever owned. Highly recommend it to anyone.
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Great Car - 2002 Acura RSX
By JoesTypeS - March 10 - 6:26 pmThe cars sweet. End of Story
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Awesome Ride - 2004 Acura RSX
By JCB - March 7 - 2:00 amI purchased RSX type-S in Jan 04. I am very happy that I got this car. I was almost going to buy the new mazda RX-8. But the price of the RX-8 and the lackluster fuel economy lured me to the RSX instead, and I am not disappointed at all.This gorgeous looking vehicle gets alot of stares from other drivers. It looks sporty enough, has responsive handling, powerful engine that begs to be driven fast. Very fun to drive ,also, the audio system is great.
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RSX-itement!!! - 2002 Acura RSX
By Big RSX Fan - March 5 - 10:00 amThis Acura is without a doubt the most fun to drive car I have ever had the privilege to own. The hi-revving twin- cam coupled to the slick shifting 6- speed makes you one with the car (I know this is an over-used cliche, but if you drive this car, you will know what it means). The interior begs you to drive fast. Clear gauges, leather wheel at just the right reach, and that precision shifter- always right at hand. This is not a car, as much as it is a precision instrument, a scaple to carve up any road. If you ever enjoyed a high revving Italian car and enjoy working the gears manually, you owe it to yourself to test drive this car.
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rating my honda acura - 2005 Acura RSX
By Kiara - February 24 - 10:00 amThis is a great car the kids love it. There friends say that they have one of the best cars. Its very comfortable and is a very easy smooth ride.
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nice Acura - 2005 Acura RSX
By rsx type-S - February 24 - 10:00 amI test drove 05 type-S two days ago and was really surprised... My current car is 04 WRX and no, type-S doesnt have that raw torque and power of my rex BUT it is VERY quik ( 0-60 in 6.5 seconds) and for that price its defenly great choice. The car also has great potential for automarket parts and handles like a real sports car from Japan. Also it is a beauty from the outside and has absolutely great interior. 6 speed tranny is top-notch and here comes an advice for all customers who had problems with that transmission: let it warm up a bit and there will be no grinding. i-Vtech sounds incredible.
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perfection - 2003 Acura RSX
By big diesel - February 15 - 10:00 amive been looking around for a new car for a year. I drove my primos wrx, it was fast but the interior was plain and i didnt like the gear box.tibron, please,..gti...not a chance..than i drove the type s...crisp six speed gear box, nice interior, good gas mlge, great price and of course dependable. It maybe a lil noisey, hey dudes its a sports car, not a cadillac..stop crying.
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It sucks. - 2002 Acura RSX
By Sammyp - February 11 - 5:36 amIt is pretty much the worse car Ive ever driven or riden in.
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Best Car Ive Ever Had - 2002 Acura RSX
By Jasonv65 - January 27 - 10:00 amI love this car. I had a Honda Civic before this car and there is a huge difference between the two. The engine is very smooth and powerful with no hesitation to get up and go. The 6 speed shifter is great and very easy to use. The suspension is very good and quiet over rough road. I test drove a new 2002 Civic Si & would choose the RSX in a heart beat over the Si.
