Does RSX have VTEC?
Yes. The Acura RSX uses Honda’s i-VTEC variable valve timing system across its two main US trims: the base RSX and the sportier RSX Type-S. The base model employs a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine producing roughly 160 horsepower, while the Type-S uses a higher-output 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine producing roughly 210 horsepower.
The RSX was produced for North America from 2002 to 2006 and is the US-market counterpart to Honda’s Integra DC5. In both trims, VTEC is a defining feature, enabling different cam profiles for efficiency at low RPM and enhanced power at higher RPM. The Type-S version increases performance with a more aggressive tuning of the same i-VTEC concept and, in most years, a six-speed manual transmission.
RSX engine options and VTEC status
The two primary RSX engines illustrate how VTEC is implemented across the lineup.
- Base RSX — 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine delivering about 160 horsepower, emphasizing a balance of everyday usability and efficiency.
- RSX Type-S — higher-output 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine delivering about 210 horsepower, paired with sport-oriented characteristics and a six-speed manual transmission in most years.
In short, both RSX trims use Honda’s i-VTEC technology, with the Type-S offering a more powerful version of the same system.
Variants and markets
North American RSX
In the United States and Canada, the RSX was offered from 2002 through 2006. The base model provided everyday performance, while the Type-S offered a more aggressive powerband and sport-focused features.
Global and JDM context
In Japan and other markets, the RSX name aligns with the Integra DC5 platform, but the core i-VTEC technology remains. Regional tuning and equipment varied, though the underlying VTEC approach was consistent across markets.
Summary
Yes—the RSX lineup uses Honda’s VTEC technology via i-VTEC. Both the base RSX and the RSX Type-S employ i-VTEC, with the Type-S delivering higher performance through a more potent iteration of the same system. The RSX has been discontinued, but its VTEC-equipped engineering remains a notable chapter in Honda’s sport-compact history.
Does the 2002 Acura RSX have VTEC?
Now, on the all-new 2002 RSX, Acura unveils the latest version of this remarkable engine system: i-VTEC. The "intelligent," i-VTEC system adds new VTC (Variable Timing Control) to VTEC to provide continuously variable camshaft timing - taking the concept of variable valve timing to new heights.
Does the base 2006 RSX have VTEC?
Cylinder Head/Valvetrain
The RSX engine uses an aluminum cylinder head and a double-overhead-cam, four-valve-per-cylinder valvetrain incorporating the i-VTEC system.
Do type RS have VTEC?
The powerplant in the Civic Type R packs a variety of ingenious features to create a thundering torrent of power while tightly managing emissions. Along with the intercooled turbocharger, this powerplant features direct injection, Variable Timing Control™ (VTC™) on both camshafts and VTEC® on the exhaust cam.
What Acura has VTEC?
Acuras that have VTEC include the Integra, RDX, TLX, and older models like the TL and the original RDX. Many modern Acuras use a VTEC Turbo engine, while older models often feature a VTEC V6 or a turbocharged 2.3-liter VTEC engine.
Modern VTEC models
- Integra: Both the standard 1.5L VTEC Turbo engine and the high-performance 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine in the Type S model are equipped with VTEC.
- RDX: The RDX is powered by a 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine.
- TLX: The TLX uses a 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine.
Older VTEC models
- TL: The TL featured a 3.5L V6 with VTEC.
- Original RDX: The first generation RDX (2007) was equipped with a turbocharged 2.3-liter 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC four-cylinder engine.
