The 2002 Acura RSX

Thursday, April 12. 2001

Acura has finally "locked in" the specifications for the new RSX. There is no need to "dance" around the "prototype" disclaimer. What you see in the press release is what we should get for the 2002 RSX and RSX Type-S.
Here's my take on what you see in the photos and what you read in the press release (The press release in Blue...warning editorial filter on)

Regarding the front suspension and the concern about MacPherson struts...
"To achieve these goals, the RSX employs new variable-assist rack-and-pinion steering and a newly designed Control-Link MacPherson strut front suspension that greatly enhances cornering performance while minimizing weight and maximizing interior room."

It appears Acura has taken steps to insure this will not be a ordinary strut setup. Remember, Porsches and BMW's use a strut suspension and nobody accuses them of making poor handling cars. The additional safety benefit of the strut front suspension has already proven it's worth in the 2001 Civic which has earned a "5 star" rating for frontal collisions. Now Honda will make this setup really perform.

Regarding the front suspension and the concern about MacPherson struts...
"To achieve these goals, the RSX employs new variable-assist rack-and-pinion steering and a newly designed Control-Link MacPherson strut front suspension that greatly enhances cornering performance while minimizing weight and maximizing interior room."

It appears Acura has taken steps to insure this will not be a ordinary strut setup. Remember, Porsches and BMW's use a strut suspension and nobody accuses them of making poor handling cars. The additional safety benefit of the strut front suspension has already proven it's worth in the 2001 Civic which has earned a "5 star" rating for frontal collisions. Now Honda will make this setup really perform.

Regarding the Braking System...
"Standard four-wheel disc brakes with a 3-channel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) help to ensure crisp brake performance and secure stopping power. The RSX is equipped with 10.3-inch vented discs in front and 10.2-inch discs at the rear. To match its additional performance capabilities, the Type-S uses larger 11.8-inch vented discs up front."

We were pretty certain of ABS standard, though I was surprised to see the two different front brake sizes. In the current Integra lineup only the Type-R has larger brakes. The rest of the cars share the same setup 10.3 front and 9.4 rear. It is great to see the cars get this improvement, now the Type-S has the same sized front brakes as the NSX, and S2000!

Regarding the Interior and Amenities...

"Ample head and legroom ensure a comfortable ride for both front and rear passengers, while a 17.8-cubic-foot cargo area (with 50/50 fold-down rear seats) delivers abundant storage capacity and flexibility. Standard safety features include dual front airbags and side airbags, dual seatbelt pre-tensioners on both front seats, and side-impact protection pads. "

It looks like the rear seat assengers will get a bit more leg room, though headroom still looks to be a bit tight. This is classified by Acura as a 4 passenger automobile, that is why there is the "thing" between the rear seats. The side airbag system is sure to include our Occupant Position Sensor which ill disable the side airbag if the passenger is in the deployment path.

"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, Keyless entry system with anti-theft immobilizer, power mirrors, power moonroof, and power windows with an auto-up/down feature on the driver's window."

The addition of an automatic climate control system is a welcome addition to the car, but I'm more excited to see the standard keyless entry and immobilizer setup. This system has proven very effective in preventing vehicle theft, and hopefully this will help keep insurance rates down swell.

"Handsome fabric with simulated suede trim graces the sporty deeply bolstered seats of the RSX. Perforated leather seating surfaces are optional on the RSX and standard on the Type-S. All RSX models are also equipped with a powerful six-speaker music system with in-dash CD player. The Type-S features an even more impressive Acura/Bose® Music System, which includes an AM/FM/cassette/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, and, in the cargo area, a new Bose Richbass™ woofer for outstanding bass response."