Acura's stable of class-leading luxury performance vehicles gets a powerful shot of adrenaline with the arrival of the much anticipated 2002 Acura RSX sports coupe - the all-new replacement for the Acura Integra.
"The RSX can take your driving experience to a higher level," says Dick Colliver, executive vice president, sales. "Coming on the heels of the popular RL, CL, TL and MDX models, the RSX really puts the exclamation point on Acura's commitment to exhilarating performance, luxury and style."
The new RSX is available in two versions, the sporty RSX and the high-performance RSX Type-S. Both models are powered by the latest evolution of Acura's legendary VTEC technology - the advanced, new i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control system. The i-VTEC system combines VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) with new VTC (Variable Timing Control) which continuously adjusts camshaft phasing by advancing or retarding the intake cam for enhanced performance across a broad power band in addition to improved fuel economy and reduced 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. The RSX comes with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission. Sequential SportShift operates like a conventional automatic or when more direct control is desired, puts gear selection in the hands of the driver, much like a manual transmission. The all-new 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.
For those looking for even more performance, a potent Type-S version of the RSX is available, with a high-output version of the twin-cam, 2.0-liter engine that produces a remarkable 200 horsepower and 142 lb.-ft. of torque. As the ideal complement to this high-tech, high-performance powerplant, the RSX Type-S is equipped exclusively with an all-new, 6-speed, close-ratio manual transmission with double and triple-cone synchronizers for precise, short-throws and ultra-positive shift feel.
Remarkably, given their considerable power, both RSX engines meet stringent Low Emissions Vehicle-II (LEV-II) standards and are designed to run for 110,000 miles before the first scheduled tune-up.
To meet the demands of the true driving enthusiast, chassis engineers developed all-new suspension and steering systems for exceptional handling precision, outstanding cornering grip and a smooth, controlled ride. Together, the all-new chassis components of the RSX combine to create a nimble, high-performance coupe that responds and brakes more aggressively and more predictably than the Integra it replaces.
The RSX utilizes a high-mounted rack-and-pinion power steering system that increases tracking stability, toe control and steering feel while a variable volume pump increases fuel economy by reducing engine load during highway cruising.
In front, the RSX employs a newly designed Control-Link MacPherson strut suspension that greatly enhances cornering performance while minimizing weight and maximizing interior room. Compared to conventional strut designs, this new system provides superior suspension geometry and control by adding a control link to precisely manage toe change throughout the suspension travel.
At the rear, the RSX features a new, compact double-wishbone system that helps deliver quick, confident handling, and a smooth, compliant ride while maximizing interior room.
Gas-pressurized shock absorbers precisely control suspension stroke to smooth out the bumps while front and rear stabilizer bars reduce body roll. On the Type-S, the track-tuned suspension is optimized with firmer springs and dampers, a front tower bar and a rear performance rod.
Standard four-wheel disc brakes with a three-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) help to ensure crisp brake performance and 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. Each RSX model wears beefy 205/55R16 Michelin all-season high-performance tires on 16-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels.
The exterior styling of the RSX communicates a message of power and precision with short front and rear overhangs, sweeping curves and sharply chiseled accent lines. A distinctive front fascia is highlighted by large, bright multi-reflector headlights, a deeply beveled chin spoiler and a signature five-sided Acura grille, while thin A- and B-pillars and compound-curved window glass provide exceptional visibility all around.
Inside, the RSX features an exceptionally dynamic and "driver-oriented" cockpit design. Large-diameter, metallic-face gauges with a backlit design are grouped in a pod that angles toward the driver. A thick, sporty, three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel is standard. Ample head, shoulder, hip and legroom ensure a comfortable ride for both front and rear passengers, while a 17.8-cubic-foot cargo area and 50/50 fold-down rear seats deliver abundant storage capacity and flexibility.
Standard safety highlights include Acura's innovative air bag system featuring both front and side-impact air bags. Both front airbags use a dual stage deployment system that allows the air bag control unit to inflate the air bag at different rates depending on the severity of the collision. In a high-speed collision, the air bags deploy at full speed while during a moderate collision, the front air bags deploy in two stages with less initial force. The RSX also includes dual seatbelt pretensioners on both front seats, and side-impact protection pads.
While yet to be tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the RSX is expected to achieve a 5-star NCAP rating for frontal impact, a 4-star SINCAP rating for side impact and a "good" (highest rating possible) Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rating for front offset impact.
Like all Acura models, the RSX is fully featured for outstanding comfort and convenience. Standard amenities on all RSX models include an automatic climate control system, power moonroof, high-output audio system with in-dash CD player, keyless entry system with anti-theft engine immobilizer, power mirrors, and power windows with an auto-up/down feature on the driver's window. Handsome fabric with simulated suede trim graces the deeply bolstered sport seats of the RSX. Perforated leather seating surfaces are optional on the RSX and standard on the RSX Type-S.
Like all Acura models, the 2002 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.
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