2002 Acura RSX

What is it?
2002 Acura RSX

What's special about it?
This replacement for the Integra boasts two new engines, three different transmissions and a cutting-edge look that's sure to catch the eye of the youth market so infatuated with its predecessor.

There will be two models offered when the car goes on sale this summer. The base RSX will be powered by a four-cylinder 2.0-liter VTEC engine rated to make 160 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 141 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. Transmission choices will be either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic with Sequential Sportshift. The top-of-the-line RSX Type S gets a high-output 2.0-liter that produces 200 horsepower at a lofty 7,400 rpm and 142 ft.-lbs. of torque at 6,000 rpm along with a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox.

Both models will use a newly designed Control-Link MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone coil spring setup in the rear. Type S upgrades include firmer springs and dampers and a thicker anti-roll bar up front. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are standard, with the Type S getting slightly larger rotors up front. Sixteen-inch five-spoke alloy wheels are standard on both models and come wrapped in 205/55R16 Michelin high-performance tires.

In what is probably the biggest upgrade of all, the RSX gets a redesigned interior that features a new cockpit-style dash design, leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, automatic climate control, front and side airbags and remote keyless entry. Type S trim adds leather seating surfaces (optional on base RSXs) and an Acura/Bose music system that features an in-dash six-disc CD changer and a Bose Richbass woofer in the cargo area for extended bass response.

Why should you care?
This is the long-awaited redesign of the Integra that has achieved near cult status in the realm of import hot rodding. With a slightly less "tweakable" front suspension, it remains to be seen whether or not the same under-30 crowd will flock to the RSX in the same way they embraced the Integra of old. Regardless, the RSX looks like a worthy successor on paper, and if it's any improvement over the Integra, it should be a thrilling ride indeed. --Ed Hellwig