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What engine is in the RSX base model?

The RSX base model is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 i-VTEC engine, the K20A3, delivering about 160 horsepower in U.S. specification. This engine underpinned the entry-level RSX from 2002 through 2006, offering a high-revving, sporty character that complemented the car’s chassis and handling.

Context and engine profile

To understand the RSX base's heart, it helps to place it within Acura’s lineup of the early 2000s. The RSX succeeded the Integra in North America and was offered in base and Type-S configurations. While the base trim prioritized accessibility and rev-happy performance, the RSX Type-S pushed toward higher horsepower with a different engine variant.

Technical profile of the base engine

Core specifications

Here are the core specifications for the RSX base engine:

Engine code: K20A3

Displacement: 2.0 liters (1998 cc)

Configuration: Inline-4 with i-VTEC (DOHC)

Power (approximate): 160 hp (118 kW) in U.S./Canadian spec

Torque (approximate): 141 lb-ft (191 Nm)

Redline: around 8,000 rpm

In practice, these figures gave the RSX base a lively, high-revving character suitable for spirited driving, while remaining relatively practical for everyday use.

Comparative context: RSX Type-S

For readers comparing trims, the RSX Type-S used a higher-performance variant of the K-series. The Type-S employed the K20A2 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine, delivering around 210 horsepower and a more aggressive tuning profile, with a focus on peak power and sportier acceleration. The base RSX and the Type-S shared the same overall platform, but the engine and tuning differences defined their distinct driving personalities.

In summary, the RSX base model relies on the K20A3 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine, producing about 160 horsepower and delivering a rev-happy, accessible performance that defined the base RSX’s appeal during its production years.

Summary

The RSX base model is powered by Honda’s 2.0-liter inline-4 i-VTEC engine, the K20A3, which yields roughly 160 hp and about 141 lb-ft of torque in North American specifications. This engine set the tone for an approachable, enthusiast-friendly compact sports coupe that balanced performance with everyday usability.

What k motor is in the base RSX?

In engines such as the K20A2 found in the Acura RSX Type-S, the VTEC system operates on both the intake and exhaust valves, allowing both to benefit from multiple cam profiles.

What engine is in base model RSX?

The Acura RSX base model is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder K20A3 engine. This engine produces 160 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque and is mated to a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. It features a DOHC i-VTEC system, though it differs from the higher-performance version in the Type-S model.

This video explains the differences between the base model and the Type-S model of the Acura RSX: 58sShift_1320YouTube · May 25, 2024

Engine Code: K20A3
Engine Type: 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 160 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 141 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Valvetrain: DOHC i-VTEC
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic

You can watch this video to learn about the Acura RSX base model's reliability: 59sShift_1320YouTube · Mar 7, 2025

What engine does a 2002 Acura RSX base model have?

The 2002 Acura RSX base model is equipped with a 2.0-liter, inline 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine, code-named the K20A3. This engine produces 160 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque. It features an all-aluminum construction and is transversely mounted in a front-wheel-drive layout.

You can watch this video to learn about the 2002 Acura RSX's engine and transmission: 56sShooting CarsYouTube · Jul 10, 2019

Engine type: 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC.
Key technology: i-VTEC (intelligent variable valve timing), with the VTEC system on the intake cam only in the base model.
Horsepower: 160 hp @ 6500 rpm.
Torque: 141 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm.
Transmission: Available with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic.
Fuel: Requires unleaded gasoline.
Comparison to Type-S: The higher-performance RSX Type-S model uses a similar 2.0L engine (K20A2) with a more advanced i-VTEC system, producing 200 horsepower.

This video compares the base and Type-S models of the Acura RSX: 1mShift_1320YouTube · May 25, 2024

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.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.