What motor comes in RSX type S?
The RSX Type S uses Honda’s 2.0-liter inline-4 K-series engine, the K20A2, delivering about 210 horsepower and roughly 142 lb-ft of torque. It’s a high-revving, VTEC-equipped powerplant designed for a sporty, all-around performance package.
The Acura RSX Type S, sold in North America from 2002 through 2006, represents the performance variant of the RSX lineup. Under the hood sits a high-revving K-series powerplant with Honda’s i-VTEC technology, paired with a tight manual transmission and a chassis tuned for spirited driving. While that era’s RSX base model used a different K-series variant, the Type S was tuned specifically to maximize peak power and response at higher RPMs.
Engine at a glance
Details about the engine as installed in most North American RSX Type S models:
- Engine code: K20A2
- Displacement: 2.0 liters (1,998 cc)
- Configuration: Inline-4 with DOHC
- Valvetrain: i-VTEC (two-stage VTEC on intake, with VTEC on exhaust)
- Power: ~210 hp (DIN) at ~7,800 rpm
- Torque: ~142 lb-ft (193 Nm) at ~6,000 rpm
- Redline: approximately 8,000 rpm
Note: Power and torque figures can vary slightly by model year and measurement standard. The RSX Type S used a 6-speed manual transmission and ECU calibration designed to maximize peak output and high-rev performance.
What makes this engine special
The K20A2 in the RSX Type S embodies Honda’s early-2000s focus on a high-revving, naturally aspirated performance engine. It combines lightweight construction, efficient i-VTEC variable timing, and a broad power band that rewards aggressive shifting and track-day spirited driving. The engine’s design also helped establish the K-series as a versatile platform later used in many Honda/Acura enthusiasts’ projects.
Variants and market notes
In North America, the RSX Type S is distinguished from the base RSX by its more aggressive tuning and higher-output engine. The base RSX generally used a lower-output K-series variant (K20A3), while the Type S utilized the K20A2 for higher performance. Always verify the exact engine code for a given car, as specifications can vary by year and market.
Maintenance and reliability tips
The K20A2 is known for strong reliability when properly maintained. Key upkeep includes regular oil changes with quality synthetic oil, timely replacement of the VTEC solenoids if needed, belt/drive service, cooling system maintenance, and spark plug checks. For enthusiasts considering modifications, be mindful that high-rev operation requires careful tuning and component compatibility to maintain reliability and avoid issues in the high-RPM regime.
Summary
The RSX Type S centers on Honda’s 2.0-liter K-series engine, the K20A2, delivering about 210 horsepower with a high-revving, i-VTEC character. Paired with a precise six-speed manual, it offered a compelling blend of performance and practicality in the early 2000s compact-sport segment, and remains a favorite among enthusiasts today.
