Does the RSX type S have a K20?
Yes—the Acura RSX Type S uses a Honda K-series 2.0-liter engine, with the US-market version commonly identified as the K20A2. It features i-VTEC and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
This article outlines the engine family behind the RSX Type S, the variant most commonly associated with US-spec cars, and how to recognize it across markets and model years. It also provides guidance for identification and verification when evaluating examples or swaps.
Engine family and variant
US-spec RSX Type-S specifics
The RSX Type S is powered by a 2.0-liter K-series engine. In most North American examples, the engine code associated with this model is K20A2. The powertrain features i-VTEC and a rev-happy character that suits the Type S’s performance orientation.
Before detailing the core specs, note that variations can occur by year and market. The bullets below summarize the typical US-spec configuration for the RSX Type S.
- Displacement: 2.0 liters in the K-series family, with i-VTEC on a DOHC 4-cylinder setup.
- Engine code: K20A2 is the common designation for US/Canada RSX Type S models.
- Power output: approximately 210–215 horsepower, depending on year and emissions equipment.
- Torque: roughly 142–147 lb-ft, with variations by year and market.
- Transmission: 6-speed manual is standard; an automatic was not offered on the Type S in North America.
- Redline: commonly around 8,000 rpm, contributing to its high-revving nature.
These points summarize the core characteristics of the US-spec RSX Type S engine and confirm its place in the K-series lineup.
Notes on market/year variations
Notes on variants and identification
While the US-spec RSX Type S is typically identified by the K20A2 engine code, other markets sometimes used closely related K-series variants. When evaluating an RSX Type S, check the engine stamping and VIN data to confirm the exact code for your car, especially if shopping outside North America or considering a swap.
In practice, the RSX Type S remains defined by its 2.0L K-series, high-revving nature, i-VTEC, and six-speed manual transmission. Variants beyond the US-spec K20A2 are less common for the Type S designation and are more typical of regional differences or aftermarket work.
Summary
The RSX Type S does indeed use a K-series engine—the widely cited 2.0-liter K-series that, in US-spec cars, is the K20A2 variant. It delivers high-rev performance through i-VTEC and is paired with a six-speed manual transmission. When assessing a car or considering a swap, verify the engine code on the engine block or data plate to confirm the exact variant for your vehicle.
