When was the last Acura RSX?
The Acura RSX, a beloved compact sports coupe, has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts for its sleek design, reliable performance, and affordability. However, like all good things, the production of the Acura RSX eventually came to an end. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Acura RSX and pinpoint when its production ceased.
A Brief History of the Acura RSX
The Acura RSX was introduced in 2001 as a replacement for the Acura Integra, continuing Acura's tradition of offering sporty, fun-to-drive vehicles. Known for its sharp handling and high-revving engines, the RSX quickly gained a loyal following. It was available in two main trims: the base model and the high-performance Type-S, which featured a more powerful engine and sportier suspension.
The End of an Era
Production of the Acura RSX officially ended in 2006. Acura decided to discontinue the model as part of a broader strategy to move away from smaller, entry-level vehicles and focus on more luxurious and larger models. The RSX was succeeded indirectly by the Acura TSX and later by the ILX, though neither fully captured the RSX's sporty spirit.
Why Was the Acura RSX Discontinued?
Several factors contributed to the discontinuation of the Acura RSX:
- Market Trends: By the mid-2000s, consumer preferences were shifting towards larger vehicles like SUVs and crossovers, reducing demand for compact coupes.
- Brand Positioning: Acura aimed to reposition itself as a luxury brand, and the RSX, being more affordable and sporty, didn’t align with this vision.
- Competition: The RSX faced stiff competition from other sporty compact cars, such as the Volkswagen GTI and the Mazda RX-8, which may have influenced Acura's decision.
The Legacy of the Acura RSX
Although the Acura RSX is no longer in production, it remains a popular choice among car enthusiasts and tuners. Its reputation for reliability, combined with its sporty performance, ensures that it continues to have a strong presence in the used car market. Many RSX owners cherish their vehicles, often modifying them to enhance performance or aesthetics.
For those who miss the RSX, its spirit lives on in Acura's current lineup, particularly in models like the ILX and the performance-oriented Type S variants. However, the RSX will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who experienced its unique blend of practicality and excitement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do RSX engines last?
Just like any engine it is how you take care of it, anywhere from 60,000 to a good 300,000 miles.
What was the last year of the RSX?
| Acura RSX | |
|---|---|
| Acura | |
| aka | Honda Integra outside the US |
| Production | July 2001 - July 2006 |
| Class | sport |
Will the RSX come back?
Next-Generation Acura EV Will Bring the RSX Nameplate Back to the Performance Brand's Lineup; Prototype Road Testing Begins. January 15, 2025 — TORRANCE, Calif. Acura today announced that the premium performance brand's next-generation EV will carry the "RSX" nameplate.
What does Type S stand for?
The Definition Of Performance-Driven Design
What does the Type S badge symbolize? All Type S models must follow rigorous requirements that result in a drive that goes faster, stops quicker, and turns harder.
When did Acura discontinue RSX?
2006
Though it discontinued the model in 2006, Acura's everyday sports car developed a loyal following. Today, the RSX has achieved an almost cult-like status. Entire clubs exist that are dedicated to preserving, modifying, and even just talking about Integra and RSX vehicles.
What year to avoid Acura RSX?
All model years of the Acura RSX (2002 to 2006) have been known to leak motor oil due to bad or failing oil pressure sensors. The oil pressure sensor is an important part of your engine because it maintains the engine's oil pressure level.
Is an Acura RSX considered a sports car?
It was a truly satisfying car, one that was only elevated further by its sporty Type-S variant, and over the years it's become one of the best-used sports car investments on the market today.
Is an Acura RSX rare?
All to say the RSX, which was never all that common to begin with—in its best year Acura sold just 30,117 of them—is only going to become more special as time goes on, and as contrasts are drawn with the new RSX EV. Check out the Hagerty Media homepage so you don't miss a single story, or better yet, bookmark it.
Is the Acura RSX coming back?
The 2026 Acura RSX will be an evolution of the Performance EV concept, built on the same dedicated platform that will underpin the Honda 0-series. Acura's second EV, a crossover previewed by last year's Performance EV concept, will be called the RSX.
Is the Acura RSX a reliable car?
Like most Acura and Honda models, the RSX is a generally reliable vehicle.
