Acura's
stable of class-leading luxury performance vehicles gets a powerful
shot of adrenaline with the arrival of the much anticipated 2002 Acura
RSX sports coupe, the all-new replacement for the legendary Acura Integra.
"The RSX can take your driving experience to a higher level,"
says Dick Colliver, executive vice president of Acura. "Coming
on the heels of the TL and CL Type-S models and the sportier 2002 RL,
the RSX really puts the exclamation point on Acura's commitment to exhilarating
performance, luxury and style."
The new RSX is available with two all-new high-tech and extremely potent
engines. To deliver a race-bred driving experience, the RSX is equipped
with a 16-valve, DOHC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that uses Acura's
revolutionary i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control system &emdash;
producing an impressive 160 horsepower and 141 lb.-ft. of torque while
also enhancing fuel efficiency and emissions control. The i-VTEC system
combines VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) with
new VTC (Variable Timing Control) which continuously adjusts camshaft
phasing for enhanced performance and efficiency across a broad power
band. The all-aluminum engine mates to either a 5-speed manual transmission
or an optional 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission.
For those looking to push the performance envelope even further, a Type-S
version of the RSX is available, powered by a high-output version of
the twin-cam, 2.0-liter engine that produces a remarkable 100 horsepower
per liter for a maximum output of 200 horsepower and 142 lb.-ft. of
torque. As the ideal complement to this high-tech powerplant, the RSX
Type-S is equipped with an all-new, close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission.
Remarkably, given their considerable power, both RSX engines meet stringent
Low Emissions Vehicle-II (LEV-II) standards and are designed to run
for 105,000 miles before the first scheduled tune-up.
To meet the demands of the true driving enthusiast, engineers developed
all-new suspension and steering systems with exceptional handling precision,
outstanding cornering grip and a smooth, controlled ride. 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. At the rear, the RSX features a new, compact
double-wishbone system that helps deliver quick, confident handling
and a smooth, compliant ride.
On the Type-S, the suspension is optimized with firmer springs and dampers,
and a larger front stabilizer bar for even greater responsiveness and
road feel. 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.
Each RSX model wears beefy 205/55R16 Michelin all-season high-performance
tires on 16-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels.
Inside, the RSX features an exceptionally dynamic and "driver-tuned"
cockpit design. Large-diameter, metallic-face gauges with a backlit
design are grouped in a pod that angles toward the driver. A sporty
three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel is standard. 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 pretensioners on both front seats, and
side-impact protection pads. 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.
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. The exterior styling of the RSX communicates a message of
power and precision with short front and rear overhangs, sweeping curves
and sharply chiseled accent lines. A distinctive front fascia is highlighted
by large, bright multi-reflector headlights, deeply beveled chin spoiler
and signature Acura grille, while thin A- and B-roof pillars and compound-curved
window glass provide exceptional visibility all around.
Complete details and information will be available closer to the July
on-sale date of the RSX. While pricing has not been finalized, RSX prices
are expected to range from $20,000-$25,000 with an annual sales target
of 30,000 units. Like all Acura models, the 2002 RSX is covered by a
comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty.
Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC),
which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service,
and trip routing.
If you
want more information on the RSX, there is already a page dedicated
entirely to the RSX that should satisfy all your needs. Check it out
- Club RSX
http://www.clubrsx.com/rsxinfo/production/
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