The 2006 RSX sports coupe continues to appeal to driving enthusiasts, while winning over import "tuners", automotive critics and performance-driven customers. Over the past three years, the RSX has been named to Car and Driver's "10Best list," Edmunds.com's " Most Wanted Coupe Under $25,000,"and awarded one of Ward's "10 Best Engines" securing its place as a leader in the sports coupe segment. With a high-performance i-VTEC engine, abundant luxury features, a racing-inspired cockpit and aggressive styling, the RSX continues to set the trend in driving excitement and refinement.
Available in two distinct models, the sporty RSX and the high-performance RSX Type-S, the RSX serves as an important point of entry for the brand, introducing performance enthusiasts to the Acura line-up of performance luxury vehicles.
"The RSX is a very important model for Acura, bringing young, performance
oriented customers into the Acura brand. " said Dick Colliver, executive
vice president, sales. "The RSX
not only looks fast, it delivers high performance driving excitement along with
the refinement you expect from Acura."
Both the RSX and Type-S models are powered by advanced engines that feature i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control systems, combining VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) with VTC (Variable Timing Control). The i-VTEC system delivers enhanced performance across a broad power band in addition to superior fuel economy and low exhaust emissions.
To deliver a race-bred driving experience, the RSX is equipped with a 16-valve DOHC, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces an impressive 155 horsepower SAE net (Rev 8/04)* and 139 lb-ft. SAE net (Rev 8/04) of torque. Thanks to high performance camshafts, a large intake duct, and exhaust pipe and free-flowing catalytic converter, the high performance Type-S model produces 201 horsepower SAE net (Rev 8/04) and 140 lb ft of torque SAE net (Rev 8/04).
Remarkably, given their considerable power, both RSX engines meet stringent CARB Low Emissions Vehicle-II (LEV-2) standards and are designed to run for 110,000 miles before the first scheduled tune-up.
The RSX comes with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission that operates like a conventional automatic or, in
*For the 2006 model year, horsepower and torque specifications for all Acura models have been updated in press materials to reflect the revised Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1349 (Rev 8/04) net calculations. These new specifications reflect a number of significant differences from the old test procedures and may cause horsepower and torque totals published in 2006 media materials to differ from the figures published in previous years. To avoid confusion, all 2006 Acura press materials will specify SAE net (Rev 8/04) after all horsepower and torque figures to denote adherence to the new standards.
SportShift mode, puts gear selection in the hands of the driver. The automatic transmission also features Grade Logic Control, which reduces shift frequency by holding the engine in a lower gear for better hill climbing and increased engine braking. The Type-S is equipped exclusively with a 6-speed, close-ratio manual transmission for quick, responsive shifting. Carbon synchronizers applied on fifth and sixth gears improve shift feel.
To meet the demands of the true driving enthusiast, the chassis of both RSX models feature track-tuned suspensions and steering systems for exceptional handling precision, outstanding cornering grip and a smooth, controlled ride.
A unique Control-Link MacPherson strut front suspension and a compact double-wishbone rear suspension system help deliver quick, confident handling, and a smooth, compliant ride while maximizing interior room. On the Type-S, the track-tuned suspension features firmer springs and dampers, a front strut tower bar and a rear performance rod.
Standard 4-wheel disc brakes with a 3-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
help to provide secure stopping power. The RSX is equipped with 10.3-inch ventilated
discs in front and 10.2-inch discs at the rear. To match its additional performance
capabilities, the RSX
Type-S uses large 11.8-inch ventilated discs up front.
The RSX utilizes a high-mounted rack-and-pinion power steering system that provides better tracking stability, and toe control as well as a linear steering feel. This system features a quick steering ratio, a rigid steering column and provides responsive steering and a linear, on-center steering feel.
The RSX model wears grippy 205/55R16 Michelin all-season high-performance tires on five-spoke alloy wheels. To further enhance the Type-S model's handling prowess, stylish17x7-inch alloy wheels and 215/45R17 Michelin all-season high-performance tires are fitted.
The exterior styling of the RSX communicates a message of power and precision through short front and rear overhangs, sweeping curves and sharply chiseled accent lines. In front, the fascia is designed with rectangular air ducts, aggressive-looking tri-beam headlights and an Acura-five-sided grille. Body colored side sills on the RSX wrap around the car to highlight the wheels and tires. The rear of the RSX contains a modern taillight assembly, pronounced exhaust tips and, on the Type-S, a deck lid spoiler. These elements add up to create an aerodynamic car that gives off a strong feeling of mass and power.
The 2006 RSX is available in the following exterior colors: Taffeta White (RSX only), Nighthawk Black, Milano Red, Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, and Jade Green Metallic. Blaze Orange Metallic and Premium White Pearl are available on the Type-S only. For 2006, Alabaster Silver Metallic, replaces Satin Silver Metallic.
The interior of the RSX features a driver-oriented cockpit. The seats have supportive side bolsters and a thick lower cushion for increased comfort on long drives and added support during aggressive cornering. The integrated headrests feature titanium accents as do the step garnish, the shifter boot ring (models equipped with manual transmission) and the hand brake.
Standard safety features include Acura's innovative dual-stage, dual-threshold
airbag system, which deploys the airbags at different rates depending on the
severity of the collision and
seatbelt usage. The RSX also includes side airbags with passenger seat height
and position sensors, and dual seatbelt pretensioners on both front seats.
Standard amenities on all RSX models include an Automatic Climate Control System,
power moonroof, high-output audio system with in-dash CD player (Acura/Bose
Audio
System on Type-S), keyless entry system with anti-theft engine immobilizer,
heated power sideview mirrors, power windows with an auto-up/down feature on
the driver's window and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The deeply bolstered
sport seats of the RSX are made from handsome fabric with simulated suede trim.
Perforated leather seating surfaces are optional on the RSX and standard on
the RSX Type-S.
Like all Acura models, the 2006 RSX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and, new for 2006, a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.
For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries, please go to www.acuranews.com.