2002 Acura RSX: Road Test
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2002 Acura RSX ▼
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- MSRP: $19,950 -$23,170
- Invoice: $18,193 -$21,124
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Our road test for the 2002 Acura RSX includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Acura RSX from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Acura RSX, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Acura RSX help you decide if a 2002 Acura RSX is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 7 | 5.7 |
Can feel sluggish at low rpm, but impressive power above 3000 rpm. Acura says base model with manual transmission does 0-60 mph in 7.7 sec. Automatic transmission dulls performance somewhat. Test Type-S did 0-60 in 7.8 sec, but test car had few break-in miles, and overall Type-S acceleration is more impressive than that figure implies.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Test Type-S models averaged 24.9-26.2 mpg in city/freeway driving and performance tests. This suggests base models will also average close to EPA city ratings. Acura recommends premium gas for both models.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 3.5 |
Firm but not harsh or punishing. Type-S rides slightly harder than base RSX, but a stiff, rattle-free structure partly compensates.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
Impressive on base model; firmer-damped Type-S slightly more athletic yet. Both have minimal body lean, good grip. Steering quick, precise, nicely weighted, and has good road feel. Brakes are powerful, especially on Type-S with its larger front discs.
QUIETNESS
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.2 |
Not the best for long trips. Marked tire roar always, slight wind noise at highway speeds. Engine has nicely refined note, but best performance requires staying above 4000 rpm, where engine and exhaust can get annoyingly loud.
CONTROLS
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 5.5 |
Legible, handy. Climate and audio controls thoughtfully angled toward driver, slightly awkward for passenger use. Automatic climate system less distracting to set than most rivals'. Materials are good quality with sporty, semi-upscale feel, especially Type-S with its perforated-leather seats instead of cloth. Terrific workmanship on our test Type-S models.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
Small-car snug, but comfortable. Good leg room, though limited head room for tall adults. Seats are firm with prominent side bolstering, but are well-shaped and supportive. Small rear-side windows, thick roof pillars, and tall deck hamper rearward visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 1.5 |
Cramped for adults, OK for kids on short trips, though very limited head room. Entry/exit typical small coupe: awkward squeeze between front seat and doorjamb, although tip-slide right front seat helps.
CARGO ROOM
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 2.9 |
Useful but not generous. Versatile load carrier, with hatchback design and easy-fold split rear seatbacks, but high liftover a negative. Cabin storage slightly subpar.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 8 | 5.2 |
The fun-to-drive RSX is priced competitively, and the base version delivers most of the Type-S's thrills at slightly less money. This Acura is better executed than main rivals Toyota Celica and Mitsubishi Eclipse, though its high-strung 4 cyl may not appeal to those seeking relaxed day-to-day transportation.
Total Score
| Base, man. | Base, auto. | Type-S | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 52 | 49 | 52 | 45.5 |
Total Score: 51
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