2006 Acura RSX

Since its debut in July of 2001, the RSX sports coupe has been an unqualified success, winning an array of industry awards including being named to Car and Driver's '10 Best' and Ward's '10 Best Engines' lists. To maintain the RSX's position as the benchmark in its class, Acura's dynamic sports coupe receives substantial performance and styling enhancements for 2005 that update its dynamic looks, refine and modernize the interior and make it even more fun to drive.

'The sports coupe segment is incredibly competitive and you have to keep improving to stay ahead of the curve,' said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. 'We've made substantial performance, handling and styling enhancements for 2005 that will keep the RSX at the top of its class. '

The 2005 RSX is available in two versions, the sporty RSX and the high-performance RSX Type-S. Both models are powered by advanced engines that feature i-VTEC 'intelligent' valve-control systems, combining VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) with VTC (Variable Timing Control). The i-VTEC system delivers enhanced performance across a broad power band in addition to superior fuel economy and low exhaust emissions.

To deliver a race-bred driving experience, the RSX is equipped with a 16-valve DOHC, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces an impressive 160 horsepower and 141 lb-ft. of torque.

For 2005, the high performance Type-S model receives engine and exhaust system modifications that boost horsepower from 200 to 210 and torque from 142 lb.-ft to 143 lb-ft. Engine output was optimized by applying high performance camshafts and enlarging the diameter of the intake duct by 10 percent. A larger diameter exhaust pipe and free-flowing catalytic converter helped to boost horsepower by increasing exhaust flow by 10 percent.

Remarkably, given their considerable power, both RSX engines meet stringent CARB Low Emissions Vehicle-II (LEV-2) standards and are designed to run for 110,000 miles before the first scheduled tune-up.

The RSX comes with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission that operates like a conventional automatic or, in SportShift mode, puts gear selection in the hands of the driver. The automatic transmission also features Grade Logic Control, which reduces shift frequency by holding the engine in a lower gear for better hill climbing and increased engine braking. The Type-S is equipped exclusively with a 6-speed, close-ratio manual transmission for quick, responsive shifting. For 2005, the final drive ratio on this transmission was lowered to provide even quicker acceleration while shift feel was improved by applying carbon synchronizers on fifth and sixth gear.

To meet the demands of the true driving enthusiast, the chassis of both RSX models feature track-tuned suspensions and steering systems for exceptional handling precision, outstanding cornering grip and a smooth, controlled ride.

A unique Control-Link MacPherson strut front suspension and a compact double-wishbone rear suspension system help deliver quick, confident handling, and a smooth, compliant ride while maximizing interior room. On the Type-S, the track-tuned suspension is optimized with firmer springs and dampers, a front strut tower bar and a rear performance rod.

For 2005, the suspensions on both RSX models were optimized through an assortment of modifications designed to enhance handling while promoting an even smoother ride. Suspension enhancements for 2005 include a revised geometry, reduced ride height, retuned bushings, thicker stabilizer bars, firmer damper settings and inversely wound front coil springs that neutralize unwanted steering input caused by spring windup. On the Type-S model, the strength of the performance rod was also increased to help maintain precise suspension geometry, while the front damper top bushing was replaced by a bearing, for smoother steering response.

Standard 4-wheel disc brakes with a 3-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) help to provide secure stopping power. The RSX is equipped with 10.3-inch ventilated discs in front and 10.2-inch discs at the rear. To match its additional performance capabilities, the RSX

Type-S uses larger 11.8-inch ventilated discs up front. For 2005, a larger diameter master cylinder was applied to increase hydraulic pressure, the rigidity of the brake pedal increased and the pedal stroke was reduced. These enhancements combined to both enhance stopping power and improve braking feel.

The RSX utilizes a high-mounted rack-and-pinion power steering system that provides enhanced tracking stability, and toe control as well as a linear steering feel. This system was enhanced for 2005 by applying a quicker steering ratio, a more rigid steering column and by

increasing pump flow by seven percent to provide more responsive steering and an even more linear, on-center steering feel.

The RSX model wears grippy 205/55R16 Michelin all-season high-performance tires on restyled five-spoke alloy wheels. To further enhance the Type-S model's handling prowess for 2005, restyled 17x7-inch alloy wheels and Michelin 215/45R17 all-season high-performance tires were applied.

The exterior styling of the RSX communicates a message of power and precision through short front and rear overhangs, sweeping curves and sharply chiseled accent lines. For 2005, Acura updated the styling to make the RSX look lower, faster and more aggressive. In front, the fascia has been redesigned with lower, rectangular air ducts, aggressive-looking tri-beam headlights and a new Acura-family grille. Side sills on the RSX are now body colored, while the side sills on the Type-S are more substantial, and wrap further around the car to highlight the new wheels and tires. The rear of the RSX was redesigned with new taillight assemblies, a new bumper, larger diameter exhaust tips and, on the Type-S, a deck lid spoiler. The result for both models is a more aerodynamic car that gives off a strong feeling of mass and power.

The 2005 RSX is available in the following exterior colors: Taffeta White, Nighthawk Black, Satin Silver Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, Premium White Pearl (Type-S only), and Milano Red. Four additional exterior color options added for 2005 include: Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, Jade Green Metallic and Blaze Orange Metallic, which replace Artic Blue Pearl, Eternal Blue Pearl and Desert Silver Metallic.

The interior of the RSX features a driver-oriented cockpit that has been updated for 2005. The seats have been redesigned with more supportive side bolsters and a thicker lower cushion for increased comfort on long drives and support during aggressive cornering. Titanium accents have been added to the integrated headrests and to several key points around the cabin including the step garnish, the shifter boot ring (models equipped with manual transmission) and the hand brake.

Standard safety highlights include Acura's innovative dual-stage, dual-threshold airbag system, which deploys the airbags at different rates depending on the severity of the collision and seatbelt usage. The RSX also includes side airbags with passenger seat height and position sensors, and dual seatbelt pretensioners on both front seats.

Standard amenities on all RSX models include an Automatic Climate Control System, power moonroof, high-output audio system with in-dash CD player (Acura/Bose Audio

System on Type-S), keyless entry system with anti-theft engine immobilizer, heated power sideview mirrors, power windows with an auto-up/down feature on the driver's window and a leather- wrapped steering wheel. The deeply bolstered sport seats of the RSX are made from handsome fabric with simulated suede trim. Perforated leather seating surfaces are optional on the RSX and standard on the RSX Type-S.

Like all Acura models, the 2005 RSX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

by Acura Media

by Acura

Introduced in July, 2001, the Acura RSX sports coupe was an unprecedented success that won a multitude of industry awards including achieving Car and Driver's '10 Best' and Ward's '10 best Engines' lists. Acura's short-lived replacement for the popular Integra, the RSX was originally produced in 2002 and was available in two trims, the standard two-door hatchback and the sportier Type S.

Based on the Honda Civic platform, unfortunately comparisons to its less-expensive cousin followed the Acura RSR throughout its lifetime. The RSX featured a 2.0-liter I4 engine with horsepower that was around 150-160 for the standard trim, and 200-210 for the Type S. The standard trim model featured 141 lb-ft of torque while the Type S featured 143 lb-ft of torque.

Both a 5-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual were offered with the standard trim model while the Type S was available as only a 6-speed manual. In 2006 the last RSX was produced while Acura made the TSX its entry-level coupe. A short-lived replacement for the popular Integra, the RSX was sold by Honda in North American and Hong Kong. In Japan, Australia, New Zealand and elsewhere, the Honda continues to sell the Integra as the Honda Integra. In Japan and Oceania the Integra iS and Integra Type S and Type R versions were sold. Canada features three models, Base, Premium and Type S.

Rather than incrementally re-engineering the previous Integra/Civic platform, Honda chose to base the RSX on an entirely new platform. The RSX would share a chassis with the 01 Civic. Since 1994 this platform was the first entirely new entry-level chassis Honda had introduced. The Acura division chose to market the RSX as the Integra's replacement due to it's more luxurious and capable nature. Attempting to gain more brand recognition and respect from older, more affluent buyers, the intent was to market the vehicles more upscale features-set and more luxurious amenities. Honda chose to continue selling the model as the Integra outside of North America.

Honda enthusiasts were not impressed with the RSX suspension that employed MacPherson struts in the front and double-wishbone suspension in the rear. The K-series engine proved to have significant potential for tuning, and the engine featured intelligent VTEC, which electronically adjusts valve lift, valve duration and valve timing, giving the 2.0 L engine a flatter torque curve along with smooth power transition relative to previous VTEX implementations which only adjusted valve lift an valve duration.

Featuring the K20A3 motor, the base RSX had an output of 160 hp and is available with either an automatic or a five-speed manual transmission. The Type-S featured a 200 hp K20A2 or 210 hp in 2005 K20Z1 motor and a short-throw 6-speed manual transmissions.

Honda switched the '06 model year vehicles to the Rev 8/04 SAE standards for measuring hp. For 200 the base RSX is rated at 155 hp while the Type-S is rated at 201 hp. The RSX Type-S received camshafts, b-pipe and muffler from the exhaust, crankshaft pulley, 4,77 final drive ratio and the intake snorkel duct from the Japanese model Honda Integra Type-R. The rev-limit was now increased from 8100 rpms to 8300 rpms.

Sold in Japan, Australia and various other markets, the Honda Integra Type-R had a reduced weight, a 220 PS / 164 kW / 217 hp K20A engine. The Type-R also featured a limited slip differential and stiffer springs and shocks, 17' wheels on Bridgestone Potenza tires, Recaro suede seats, body trim, and 4 piston Brembo brakes.

Unfortunately the RSX didn't fit within the confines of Acura's restructured market strategy the decision was formulated to the Acura brand worldwide. Especially since the introduction of the less expensive 2006 Honda Civic Si, the RSX was discontinued with the final units built in the summer of 2006.

The Acura RSX won the ‘2001-2002 Sports Coupe' comparison from Edmunds.com. In May 2002 the vehicle was awarded the ‘Four Wedges & a Bubble' comparison in Car & Driver. In September of 2005 the Acura RSX received the ‘Cheap Speed' comparison in Car & Driver when pitted against the Dodge SRT-4 ACR, Subaru Impreza WRX, Chevy Cobalt SS, and the Saturn Ion Redline.

In 2006 the Acura won the Manufacturers' Championship of the Speed World Challenge Touring Car class, running both RSXs and TSXs. In the Drivers' Championship, RSX drivers finished 5th and 9th.

by Jessican Donaldson