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 this car... - 2004 Acura RSX
  By MiaMia - March 24 - 2:00 am

  Ive had this car a little over a year. I still love it! I love driving it. I normally get sick of a vehicle after the first year, but Im not sick of my RSX yet!

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  BEST IN CLASS - 2002 Acura RSX
  By very happy rsx owner - March 18 - 8:23 am

  It is worth every penny I spent. You can push the car so hard when speed is needed and yet its fuel economical/ confortable when you just need to cruise around your town. Great interior design that is un-equaled by integra. Classy exterior that fits the main stream people, and when style is needed, there are a lot of aftermarket support. Base / type-S both will be smart choice for you.

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  Overall a good buy - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Shaver - February 8 - 10:00 am

  The car is flat out fun to drive. Engine is probably the best part. Overall car has good road feel and is very comfortable. Auto climate control is nice, as is the power up driver?s window. Handling is precise, but not spectacular. The engine: It is absolutely the best thing about this car. The engine loves to rev, and after you hit the 5,500-rpm mark it begins to pull even harder (when the VTEC kicks in). Six-speed manual is incredibly smooth and quick. Negatives: Don?t believe the reviews about the stereo ? it isn?t that good. The big woofer in the trunk is more gimmick than real sound. The stereo lacks power. The back seat is only good for children ? nobody else.

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  Gr8 Car - 2003 Acura RSX
  By ananomous - February 2 - 10:00 am

  this is a gr8 car

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  Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By RSiX - February 1 - 7:36 pm

  Very quick awesome handling car.

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  Scream Machine! - 2002 Acura RSX
  By poorting - January 22 - 9:33 am

  This car is incredable! Coming from a Civic I thought the RSX would be similar to it, but I was very wrong. Acceleration and handling are spectacular. Zero play in the wheel. The suspension is tight, which makes the ride a bit bumpy, but what do you expect from a sports car? The only thing I miss is the almost 40 mpg highway from my Civic, and Ive never gotten the sticker 31 highway in the RSX, more like 27-28 (probably from going too fast).

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  Great littlehot rod - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Mike M - January 21 - 2:00 am

  We did extensive reserch,Driving Wrx,Jetta,Solara, Accord And others But the one ,in that price range, $25,000 range the RSX-S won hands down. If You havn,t driven one.Do. Very smooth through the power band. Quieter than the others And much nicer interior.And to Falconis Acura in Vegas CUDOS good Job!

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  The benchmark for the class - 2002 Acura RSX
  By Neil C - January 2 - 10:00 am

  Fantastic car, especially for the $$$ - lots of room, versatile and large trunk, unflappable chassis, interior finish second to none. Few complaints, had a fluke seat belt clip that was broken on delivery, stereo is clear and very functional, but low powered for my taste, a few mandatory features on a "luxury" car are missing, like retained accessory power (my 87 Legend, 94 Accord, 95 Camry, etc. all had this!!) puddle lamps, gas cap holder... all are completely forgivable in light of the dreamy power delivery and slick gearbox. No regrets thus far. All in all a fantastic package, no other car comes close - regardless of what the few naysayers (likely not owners!!) may report.