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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  Below my expectations - 2002 Acura RSX
  By tweet - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Car is alot of fun but my passengers side window started rattling when it is part way down. This started around 8k miles. Around 10k miles, the drivers side started also. Its very annoying. I owned a Honda previously and after 8 years, no such problems. I would have expected better build quality than this. Also, some interior parts do not fit as nicely as I would expect from an Acura. I would think twice about buying this car again.

• 

  great car - 2004 Acura RSX
  By anao85 - May 24 - 10:00 am

  fun and i love it

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  THIS IS THE BEST CAR EVER!!!!! - 2004 Acura RSX
  By j-jay - May 24 - 10:00 am

  yo this is the car of any persons dream the power and handeling behind this car is unlike no other. this is the perfect car sexy, stylish, sleek. i love driving it. and after i did everything to it i get all the attention everywhere i go. girls love it!

• 

  Turning a Leaf - 2002 Acura RSX
  By ConvertedToImports - May 22 - 10:00 am

  Everyone knows Acura…but I dont think everyone knows how affordable the RSX is. Its really a great deal because everything is included in the base price 4 yr/50,000 warranty, 10,000 mile oil changes, total luxury care, there are so many perks. but whats important is you fall in love with driving again. Ive been burned by terrible american made cars - and you should know theres resonable priced imports that will take care of all your needs!

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  RSX Type S - great all round car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By redline8x1000 - May 18 - 5:51 pm

  This was my first car I bought on my own and it was great. Had everything you would want in a car including, performance, looks, utility, fuel economy, and reliability. If I had a need for a 2nd car I would have kept it however Im sure it will be a blessing to the next owner.

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  Happy - 2003 Acura RSX
  By Sharon - May 11 - 3:58 pm

  I happy with my acura. I bought it from a private party and the previous owner kept it in great condition. Fun to drive, really happy with the fact that the back seats drop which creates a good space to store stuff. Draw back. Dash rattles, and the headlights begin to dim.

• 

  Absolutely awesome.... - 2002 Acura RSX
  By luvthecar - May 9 - 6:13 pm

  This cars handling, design and overall quality are exceptional. The car rips!

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  Best First Car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By redline8x1000 - May 7 - 2:00 am

  This was my first car that I had bought on my own. Got it when I was 27 and now Im 34. (I just got a cpo BMW 328i with all the bells & whistles). This car had it all for the money. I was one of the first to have it. It was the TYPE S too. The handling was great for its classes. However I noticed that in the last couple years the suspension started to give a bit. The hatchback was great since the backseats could fold down and I could carry a lot of things in the back. The car had over 130,000 miles on it when I sold it to carmax. Im sure it could have lasted several more years but I didnt have a need for 2 cars. Ill miss this car for sure, but Im really enjoying my new ride! =)

• 

  ehhhh - 2003 Acura RSX
  By GokoolRSX - May 4 - 10:00 am

  After owning the car for a year, I am not as happy as when I first owned the car. First thing, the ride is harsh, noisy, its not a great car to drive on long trips. The leather is cracking especially on the driver seats even after taking care of the leather. The door panels have a cheap feel to it, reminds me of other makes. No arm rest, not impressive sound system, lack of mid-range power, major problem with blind spots, stiff steering, and notchy shift gates, uncomfortable seats, cheap feel leather, dashboard rattling, and just about the worst tires you can put on a high performance car

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  GREAT car - 2002 Acura RSX
  By flipboiee - April 24 - 2:40 am

  great car! great value! great maintenance! LOTS of fun! enjoy