2004 Acura RSX Review

Almost perfect

Written by: Tim on 02/05/2009

Vehicle

2004 Acura RSX 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)

Review

Bought it used in 2008 with only 24000 miles. I noticed it gets very good fuel economy at around 35 mpg highway @70mph. The acceleration is moderately quick though the automatic version I have lacks low end punch but I feel a much higher kick above the 3000 RPM range. It handles very well in most situations. Although the inside is more sporty than luxury, that's what is expected. I overall think its better than the majority of its competition and worth a look.

Favorite Features

Sport shift, interior and exterior design, fuel economy, performance, handling, reliability, build quality, some refinement, feel on smooth pavement, ease of climate control.

Suggested Improvements

I would have liked to see more low end torque, a nicer radio, Acura's VSA (vehicle stability control) option and steering wheel controls

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Tranny problems

Written by: hondalover on 09/30/2008

Vehicle

2004 Acura RSX Type-S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6M)

Review

I have owned Hondas all my life, every version of the Civic or Integra imaginable. This RSX Type S was very disappointing. The 6 speed transmission was a major problem for me, and I brought it back to the dealer several times. These cars notoriously grind 2nd and 3rd gears, and when I brought it back to the dealer they claimed that they could not "replicate the problem" Engine is awesome, suspension is killer, but the tranny is a huge problem! Beware when you purchase!

Favorite Features

K-series engine baby! I-vtec will break the tires loose at 7k rpm. Suspension makes you feel like you are riding on rails!

Suggested Improvements

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I'll keep mine, thank you!

Written by: charlew on 04/27/2008

Vehicle

2004 Acura RSX 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)

Review

My 4 year lease will end in June of '08, and I plan on keeping this car until it starts to rust. Buy-out is well below the car's value. I thought is was just me w/the quirky 2nd gear, but I see others have noticed it, too. Dependably 320 miles per tank (26-27 mpg in city driving). Super reliability - I had brake pads replaced a week ago, even though the originals still had about 3 months left on them. Could have leased it for 4 years & never changed the brakes. Love the VTEC sound, enjoy the handling, especially when I have the chance to cut loose on a twisty. At 6'4" and 220, I fit comfortably, but nobody ever rides in the back! A few body chirps in the cold,and stereo needs upgraded.

Favorite Features

Reliability! Also, 10-14 days between fill-ups is very nice these days. After 4 years, still fun to drive - best handling car I've owned. 5 speed is a must to get the most from the VTEC, plus it saves the brakes.

Suggested Improvements

A little more insulation in the body to cut down road noise, and a higher quality stereo. I'll be taking care of the radio/CD with aftermarket products once I buy out the lease.

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Nice

Written by: Reed on 01/02/2008

Vehicle

2004 Acura RSX 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)

Review

I have owned my 04 Acura RSX as original owner. I have not had any problems mechanically. Brakes and tires and maintenace is very reliable. I have 66,000 miles to date and wouldnt get rid of it, except its kinda small in the back and a little bored with it. If you like coupes it's great. Dependable. Moderately quick and pretty fun to own.

Favorite Features

The interior lights, the tip-tronic transmission, the gas mileage is good. Honestly the best part is the reliability.

Suggested Improvements

Cramped back seats.

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Overall, a great little car

Written by: Vince on 11/30/2007

Vehicle

2004 Acura RSX Type-S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6M)

Review

For those reviewers complaining about the lack of luxury features, realize what kind of car this is supposed to be. This was Acura's entry level car, not their flagship. About the tranny, I know many other sport compacts that have the same tranny issues. After 3 years, I still love this car. In stock form, it's pretty bland, but I've taken care of that. Performance is so so if you don't hit the hot cam, but handling is above average. The rear can get pretty nervous when the roads get rough. This is NOT a long haul vehicle and not the greatest for city and/or bumper to bumper. The stock stereo is pretty weak. If u don't go crazy, 34 MPG is easily attainable. Overall, this is a good car.

Favorite Features

Sound of VTEC. Potential of the K engine; just a few simple mods turn this into a diff car.

Suggested Improvements

Better stereo. Do a better job of distinguishing the Type S from the base. Wish they'd given USDM the Type R variant.

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