Why was the RSX discontinued?
The Acura RSX, a beloved compact sports coupe, was a favorite among car enthusiasts for its sleek design, reliable performance, and affordability. However, despite its popularity, Acura decided to discontinue the RSX in 2006. This decision left many fans wondering why such a well-regarded vehicle was removed from the lineup. In this article, we’ll explore the key reasons behind the discontinuation of the Acura RSX.
1. Shifting Market Trends
One of the primary reasons for the discontinuation of the RSX was the shift in consumer preferences. By the mid-2000s, the automotive market was moving away from compact coupes and toward larger vehicles like SUVs and sedans. Acura, as Honda's luxury division, needed to adapt to these changing trends to remain competitive. The RSX, while popular among a niche audience, did not align with the broader market demand for more spacious and versatile vehicles.
2. Acura's Brand Realignment
During this period, Acura was undergoing a brand realignment to position itself as a more premium luxury brand. The RSX, which was seen as an entry-level vehicle, did not fit well with Acura's new direction. Instead, Acura focused on developing models that emphasized luxury, advanced technology, and higher price points, such as the TL and MDX. This strategic shift meant phasing out models like the RSX that were more performance-oriented and less luxurious.
3. Overlap with Honda Civic Si
Another factor contributing to the RSX's discontinuation was its overlap with the Honda Civic Si. Both vehicles targeted a similar demographic of young, performance-focused drivers. Since Honda and Acura are part of the same company, maintaining two competing models in the same segment was not cost-effective. By discontinuing the RSX, Honda could focus on the Civic Si as its primary offering in the compact performance car market.
4. Regulatory and Production Costs
As automotive regulations became stricter, particularly regarding emissions and safety standards, the cost of updating the RSX to comply with these requirements increased. Acura likely determined that the investment required to keep the RSX competitive and compliant was not justified given its declining sales and the brand's new strategic focus.
5. The Rise of the TSX
Acura introduced the TSX around the same time the RSX was discontinued. The TSX, a compact luxury sedan, offered a more upscale alternative that aligned better with Acura's evolving brand identity. The TSX appealed to a broader audience and provided a more refined driving experience, making it a logical replacement for the RSX in Acura's lineup.
Conclusion
The discontinuation of the Acura RSX was the result of a combination of factors, including shifting market trends, Acura's brand realignment, overlap with the Honda Civic Si, rising regulatory costs, and the introduction of the TSX. While the RSX remains a cherished model among enthusiasts, its departure marked a turning point for Acura as the brand moved toward a more luxury-focused identity. For fans of the RSX, its legacy lives on in the memories of spirited drives and its lasting impact on the compact sports car segment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did they discontinue RSX?
Didn't Fit Acura's Profile
At the time, Acura's marketing team was trying to sell cars on a global scale, rather than just rebranding some European Hondas for the North American consumer. They wanted to compete with the likes of BMW and Lexus, with luxury vehicles.
Will RSX ever come back?
Acura RSX Is Back, This Time as an Electric Coupe SUV. 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.
Is an Acura RSX reliable?
Like most Acura and Honda models, the RSX is a generally reliable vehicle.
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 is the RSX called in Japan?
Honda Integra
The Honda Integra (Japanese: ホンダ インテグラ, Hepburn: Honda Integura), sold in North America as the Acura Integra and later the Acura RSX, is an automobile produced by the Japanese company Honda from 1985 until 2006, and then since 2021. It succeeded the Quint as a more luxurious and sport-oriented derivative of the Civic.
How much horsepower does a RSX make?
155 hp @ 6500 rpm
2006 Acura RSX/RSX Type-S Specifications
| POWERTRAIN | RSX | RSX TYPE-S |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 155 hp @ 6500 rpm SAE Net (Rev 8/04) | 201hp @ 7800 rpm SAE Net (Rev 8/04) |
| Torque | 139 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm SAE Net (Rev 8/04) | 140 lb.-ft. @ 7000 rpm SAE Net (Rev 8/04) |
| Redline | 6800 rpm | 8100 rpm |
| Bore & Stroke | 3.39 in. x 3.39 in. (86 mm x 86 mm) |
Is the 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.
What year Acura RSX to avoid?
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.
How many miles do Acura engines last?
MotorAsk.com – “Acuras can last anywhere from 250,000 to 300,000 miles with proper maintenance. According to Acura owners, some of the brand's vehicles can even last 400,000 miles or more in ideal conditions and with a responsible owner…
How long will Acura RSX last?
Just like any engine it is how you take care of it, anywhere from 60,000 to a good 300,000 miles.
