Overview
Since its debut in 2002, the RSX has carved a solid niche in the sports coupe segment, and with the important "tuner" market. Available in two distinct models- the sporty RSX and the high-performance RSX Type-S- this sports coupe serves as an important point of entry for the brand, introducing youthful performance enthusiasts to the Acura line-up of precision-crafted performance luxury vehicles.
The RSX has won an assortment of industry awards including being named to Car and Driver's "10Best" and Ward's "10 Best Engines" lists. With their high-performance engines, abundant luxury features, advanced safety and security systems, and innovative cockpit and body designs, the RSX and RSX Type-S have set a bold standard of driving excitement and refinement in the sports coupe segment.
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The RSX is powered by a 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 155 horsepower SAE net (Rev 8/04)* at 6500 rpm and 139 lb-ft. of torque SAE net (Rev 8/04) at 4000 rpm. The RSX features either a 5-speed manual transmission or an available 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission.
The Type-S model's 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 201 horsepower SAE net (Rev 8/04) at 7800 rpm and 140 lb-ft of torque SAE net (Rev 8/04) at 7000 rpm.
*For the 2006 model year, all Acura horsepower and torque specifications have been updated to reflect revised Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1349 (Rev 8/04) net calculations that went into affect in January of 2005. These new calculations reflect a number of significant changes in the way horsepower and torque are measured and may cause SAE net horsepower and torque totals published in 2006 media materials to differ from the figures published in previous years. To avoid confusion, all 2006 Acura press materials will specify "SAE net (Rev 8/04") after all horsepower and torque figures to denote adherence to the new standards.
The Type-S comes exclusively with a close ratio 6-speed manual transmission. Fifth and sixth gears feature single cone carbon synchronizers to provide a more direct shift feel and reduce mechanical losses in the transmission. A low final gear ratio provides quick acceleration.
To meet the demands of today's discriminating drivers, both RSX models boast a sport-tuned suspension system. The suspension, steering and braking systems are coupled with front and rear body rigidity which results in even more responsive handling while at the same time enhancing ride comfort. Insulation material in the roof and doors reduce road noise, while a dynamic damper on the front subframe reduces engine rocking and vibration transmitted to the cabin from the engine.
The Type-S model comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with Michelin 215/45R17 all-season high-performance tires, which provide enhanced traction and a substantial appearance under the wheel wells.
The interior and exterior styling of the RSX complement its sporty performance. Deeply bolstered front seats, chrome and titanium-look accents, and white-faced meters give the interior a sporty yet refined look. The exterior styling of the RSX includes the signature Acura five-sided grille and a deck lid spoiler on the Type-S.
High Performance Powertrain
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The 2006 RSX is powered by two versions of an innovative, 16-valve, DOHC, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine utilizing Acura's i-VTEC valve-control system. The i-VTEC system incorporates VTC (Variable Timing Control) to continuously adjust intake-camshaft phase in concert with Acura's Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system- enhancing performance, and fuel efficiency, while reducing emissions across a broad power band. The RSX utilizes VTC and VTEC on the intake valves and camshaft while on the Type-S i-VTEC combines VTC intake phasing with VTEC intake and exhaust valve control.
The RSX engine produces 155 horsepower SAE net (Rev 8/04) at 6500 rpm and 139 lb-ft of torque SAE net (Rev 8/04) at 4000 rpm. High performance camshafts, large diameter intake ducting and a high flow exhaust system, combine to help the Type-S engine produce a robust 201 horsepower SAE net (Rev 8/04) at 7800 rpm and 140 lb-ft of torque SAE net (Rev 8/04) at 7000 rpm.
Both the RSX and the RSX Type-S meet strict Low Emission Vehicle-II (LEV-II) standards adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for 2006.
The 155-horsepower SAE net (Rev 8/04) RSX engine drives the front wheels through a choice of two transmissions: a smooth- shifting, five-speed manual that provides excellent control during spirited driving, or an optional 5-speed automatic transmission equipped with Acura's Sequential SportShift system. The SportShift concept first appeared on the Acura NSX exotic sports car. The SportShift transmission operates as an automatic or puts gear selection in the hands of the driver, much like a manual transmission.
In keeping with its high-performance mission, the RSX Type-S is available exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. Designed to be exceptionally compact and lightweight, this 6-speed has also been engineered to shift with extremely short and precise throws. It features a short-throw clutch for effortless shifting with an innovative torsion mechanism that considerably reduces noise. The low final gear ratio of this transmission complements the powerful engine and provides enhanced acceleration. A combination of single and multiple cone synchronizers are utilized for outstanding feel. Single cone carbon synchronizers on fifth and sixth gear allow for quicker response and an enhanced shifting feel.
Global Compact Platform
To achieve both a sleek exterior and a roomy cabin, the RSX is built on the Global Compact Platform. It features a 4-wheel independent suspension system tuned to provide agile handling and refined ride comfort. Up front, the RSX features a compact Control-Link MacPherson Strut suspension for outstanding handling, ride and packaging. Moreover, the Control-Link MacPherson Strut design delivers quick, responsive handling by helping to maximize each front tire's contact with the road throughout the range of suspension travel. In the rear, the RSX is equipped with a compact double-wishbone suspension that helps provide a smooth ride, excellent handling, and additional cargo space.
Large disc brakes at each wheel help deliver exceptional stopping power. In front, the RSX uses 10.3-inch ventilated discs, while the high-performance Type-S features 11.8-inch ventilated discs. Both the RSX and the RSX Type-S are equipped with 10.2-inch rotors at the rear. The brake systems on both models have a low pedal stroke ratio, a rigid brake pedal and a large diameter master cylinder for enhanced performance and superior braking feel.
The solid unit body of the RSX was designed from the outset to set a new standard for torsional and bending rigidity. The exterior styling has a distinctive, sporty look with aggressive front, rear fascias and side sills, modern headlight and taillight assemblies, and a deck lid spoiler on the Type-S model. These exterior styling components, as well as the track-tuned suspension lower both the coefficient of drag and coefficient of lift for enhanced stability.
The RSX platform has been computer-designed to achieve a 5-star NCAP rating for frontal impact by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Specially designed crumple zones in the front and rear help dissipate impact forces before they can intrude on the passenger cabin, while impact-absorbing pads in the pillars, roof sides, and door linings work in conjunction with the standard front and side airbags to help minimize the chance of occupant injury.
Spacious And Stylish Cockpit
Despite its 101.2-inch wheelbase, the RSX provides generous room for both passengers and cargo- thanks in part to its compact suspension system and cab-forward design. With the rear seats up, the cargo area offers 16 cubic feet of cargo space.
The driver-oriented cockpit has chrome and titanium-look accents and well-appointed materials throughout. It features a sleek instrument panel with large gauges that are backlit in red for easy night time visibility. Both models feature deeply bolstered seats for increased support as well as comfort, and a three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel for an unmistakable "driver's car" feel. Handsome simulated suede with rich fabric inserts is standard on the RSX while perforated, hand-selected leather is available as an option. Perforated leather is standard on the RSX Type-S.
Standard Luxury Features
Like all Acura models, the RSX is comprehensively equipped. Standard equipment includes an Automatic Climate Control system with air filtration, a keyless entry and security system with anti-theft engine immobilizer, power windows with an "auto-up/down" feature for the driver's window, heated power sideview mirrors, and intermittent wipers. In addition, the RSX boasts a standard 6-speaker audio system with in-dash CD player, while the RSX Type-S features an even more impressive 7-speaker Acura/Bose® Music System with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and cassette player.
Sporty and Aerodynamic Exterior Design
The exterior styling of the RSX is sporty and energetic. The five-sided Acura grille, front and rear bumpers, side sills, headlights, and taillights ensure the RSX looks as fast as it drives.
Thanks to gently tapered body-side panels, curved door and quarter-panel glass, and a lowered suspension,the RSX is extremely aerodynamic.These design elements contribute to improve coefficient of lift, coefficient of drag and the ratio of lift front to rear, ultimately leading to maximum high-speed stability.
The RSX Type-S features even more aggressive styling, with more substantial side sills and a deck lid spoiler. The RSX is available in the following exterior colors: Taffeta White (RSX only), Nighthawk Black Pearl, Milano Red, Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, and Jade Green Metallic. Blaze Orange Metallic and Premium White Pearl are available on the Type-S only. For 2006 include Alabaster Silver Metallic replaces Satin Silver Metallic.