Acura RSX 2004 $7,991

Vehicle Overview, , In its third season in Acura’s lineup, few things have changed in the compact RSX sport coupe. Heated mirrors are now standard, and one new body color is available., , Dick Colliver, Acura executive vice president of sales, has promised “a true race-bred driving experience” for this front-wheel-drive hatchback coupe. Acura targets youthful enthusiasts, including the highly coveted “tuners.”, , In base form, the four-cylinder engine generates 160 horsepower. The performance-focused Type-S edition whips up an additional 40 hp and features firmer springs and dampers, as well as a larger front stabilizer bar. The RSX was the first Acura equipped with an intelligent valve-control system, which is intended to enhance performance and efficiency. , , , Exterior, , The RSX has a curvaceous profile; it has a wide pentagonal grille that provides a family resemblance to other Acura models. Large multireflector headlights and a beveled chin spoiler accompany the grille. Displaying chiseled accent lines, the body features short front and rear overhangs. Compound-curved window glass complements thin A- and B-pillars to improve visibility. The RSX rides a 101.2-inch wheelbase and measures 172.2 inches long overall., , Michelin P205/55R16 tires are mounted on five-spoke alloy wheels. Variable-assist rack-and-pinion steering is installed. The suspension consists of Control-Link MacPherson struts up front and double wishbones in the rear. A power moonroof is standard., , , Interior, , Four people fit inside the RSX, which features two front bucket seats and a 50/50-split, folding rear seat. Base-model upholstery is a blend of regular and suede-look fabric, while the Type-S gets perforated leather; leather in the base coupe is offered as an option. Large gauges are grouped in a pod that’s angled toward the driver. A three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel is installed, and a seven-speaker Bose stereo system with an in-dash six-CD changer goes into the Type-S. Cargo volume totals 17.8 cubic feet., , , Under the Hood, , A 2.0-liter, 16-valve i-VTEC four-cylinder engine powers the base RSX, which produces 160 hp and 141 pounds-feet of torque. The Type-S gets a stronger four-cylinder that generates 200 hp and 142 pounds-feet; it requires premium fuel., , A five-speed-manual transmission is standard in the base model. An optional five-speed Sequential SportShift automatic unit incorporates Grade Logic Control, which holds the proper gear on steep grades and minimizes unnecessary shifting. The Type-S coupe comes only with a close-ratio six-speed-manual gearbox. , , , Safety, , Standard equipment includes all-disc antilock brakes, side-impact airbags, occupant-position and height sensors for the front passenger, front seat belt pretensioners and a LATCH system for child-safety seats., , , Driving Impressions, , Acura took an impressive leap forward with the defiantly sporty RSX, which ranks as exceptional. In both the base and Type-S versions, the coupe behaves in a manner comparable to its alluring style., , Crisper handling is a big bonus with the tautly suspended Type-S, which exacts little penalty in ride comfort. The base model rides even more pleasantly., , Base-model performance is eager with the Sequential SportShift automatic transmission, but the 160-hp engine emits a fair amount of blare when pushed to high rpm levels. Type-S acceleration scores as all-out energetic, and its richer exhaust note is particularly satisfying. The close-ratio gearbox in the Type-S is one of the best around.

• 2 Door
• Alloy Wheels
• Rear Wiper
• Spoiler
• Air Conditioning
• Cruise Control
• Power Door Locks
• Power Steering
• Power Windows
• Rear Defrost
• Tilt Steering
• AM/FM Radio
• Keyless Entry
• Antilock Brakes
• Driver Air Bag
• Passenger Air Bag