2005 Acura RSX Review and Specs

Summary

What Edmunds.com says

With an overall feeling of refinement, and exemplary steering, Acura's RSX is a car you can drive to work everyday and still cut loose in it over the weekend.

Pros

High-revving Type-S engine, nimble handling, sharp steering, clean interior design, plenty of standard equipment.

Cons

Modest torque output, tight rear-seat headroom, forgettable exterior design.

What's New for 2005

For 2005, the RSX receives a number of changes. Horsepower for the Type-S is bumped up to 210, thanks to new high-performance camshafts, a larger intake duct, large diameter exhaust pipe and a high-flow catalytic converter. The six-speed transmission on the Type-S gets a lower final drive ratio and carbon synchronizers (instead of brass) on fifth and sixth gears for a smoother shift feel. Suspension upgrades on all models include a 7mm lower ride height, revised stabilizer bars and inversely wound springs. The steering and braking systems have been refined for better feel and response, and the Type-S gets a larger diameter front strut tower brace and 17-inch wheels. Front and rear fascias have also been redesigned, along with the side sills, grille, headlamps and taillamps. The Type-S gets a rear spoiler, as well. Inside, you'll find new deeply bolstered seats with thicker cushioning and new trim accents. Overall body rigidity has increased by 15 percent in front and 21 percent in the rear.

Consumer Ratings & Reviews

Resilient Coupe

Written by: TypeS4real on 02/06/2009

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	9
Comfort:	8	Interior Design:	10	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	9	Exterior Design:	9

Vehicle

2005 Acura RSX Type-S 2dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 6M)

Review

This is my 2nd Type S & still impressed. With the hp bumped up to 210, it performs very well. Turn-ratio & handling are great. For a high torque coupe, it still gets good mpg, but it does require premium unleaded. Like other owners say, the ride can be extremely stiff so watch bumps in the road very carefully, seriously. I like how Acura upgraded the wheels to 17s, but wish they kept the original headlights, since that's what initially caught my eye. Interior hasn't changed, still sleek. The fold-over rear seats are a huge plus, but rear seating is narrow. As long as required maintenance is done (which is HIGHLY recommended), it'll be faithful. Definitely reliable, fun, & a great value.

Favorite Features

Pros: awesome 6-speed horsepower for a 4 cyl, great looking interior, tight handling, the standard luxuries (moonroof, spoiler, 6-disc CD changer, Bose speakers, leather seats), can do long road trips, great value.

Suggested Improvements

Cons: Wish it wasn't discontinued. While it can be a pro for some, its torque & high rev definitely makes it noisy while driving. Suspension could be tweaked to absorb more road impact; interior could have added a sunglass compartment; premium unleaded gasoline puts it at a disadvantage with some.

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Bang for buck

Written by: chris on 09/02/2008


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	10	Interior Design:	10	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	10	Exterior Design:	9

This car is one of the best cars I have ever owned. Fast, fuel efficient, quiet, comfortable, and long lasting. 210 hp in a car that weighs under 3000 lbs. 6 speed tranny good for lower rpms at 80 mph, or higher top speed. Governor kicks in at 145. World's fastest front wheel drive NA car. And under 20k. Would love them to continue production. :-( they never should have stopped

6 speed, sunroof, 6 disc CD, bucket seats, chain driven, I-VTEC, sport look, oh yeah. Over 200 hp from a 4 cyl 2.0 ltr. Cleaner 17" rims, lo pro tires.

a little more aero design, a lower ride, and steering wheel controls

A Great Second Car

Written by: Hondalover on 07/06/2008


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	10	Interior Design:	10	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	9	Exterior Design:	10

This is my second vehicle. As a younger driver I find this car absolutely perfect for me and the things I like in a car. Easy, fun, good enough on gas, sharp style, commanding appearance, and amazing handling.

Sub woofer in the spare tire.

N/A

Fantastic Car

Written by: tt on 04/28/2008


Performance:	10	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	10
Comfort:	10	Interior Design:	10	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	10	Exterior Design:	10

I absolutely love this car. I put on 30000+ miles annually and not the first problem with how it runs. Handles fantastic. Great pickup for a 4 banger. I've had no problems other than the cd player died at 80K miles but is easily replaced. Love the bose system otherwise. Overall, good stock system. Car very comfortable. Gets a lot of attention.

Great pickup for a 4-banger, goes through the gears smoothly. Hugs the road. Love a hatchback. Can't believe with gas crunch Acura would discontinue such a fantastic car. People make positive comments about it all the time.

Bring back this model! Gas prices are soaring, a hatchback is a small car answer to an suv and this model makes it sporty, cheap to own/run, and comfortable all in one little car. Not everyone wants a 4 door accord look-a- like. Bring this model back.

Go Kart Honda

Written by: Jymmijamez76 on 04/21/2008


Performance:	9	Fun-to-Drive:	10	Build Quality:	9
Comfort:	8	Interior Design:	8	Reliability:	10
Fuel Economy:	8	Exterior Design:	9

I have had this car about 2 months now, and it just begs to be rev'd to 8k. Handling is very good, suspension needs to be tweaked a little if driving at high speeds. Loads of after market and online support. Really reminds me of the old CRXs, with some modern features and comforts. Leather seats are very supportive and comfortable. Bose System is great, plays my old Miami BASS cds and sounds great considering the small sub.

Intake growl with revs over 5000 rpm, reminescent of being on sport bike. Makes you want to speed!

20 more HP, and 6 disk MP3 player.

2005 Acura RSX Consumer Ratings & Reviews