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 Acura News : The 2005 Acura RSX Sports More Power, and Better Handling!
Since its debut in July of 2001, the RSX sports coupe has been an unqualified success, winning an array of industry awards including being named to Car and Driver's "10 Best" and Ward's "10 Best Engines" lists. To maintain the RSX's position as the benchmark in its class, Acura's dynamic sports coupe receives substantial performance and styling enhancements for 2005 that update its dynamic looks, refine and modernize the interior and make it even more fun to drive.
"The sports coupe segment is incredibly competitive and you have to keep
improving to stay ahead of the curve," said Dick Colliver, executive vice
president, sales. "We've made substantial performance, handling and styling
enhancements for 2005 that will keep the RSX at the top of its class."
The
2005 RSX is available in two versions, the sporty RSX and the high-performance
RSX Type-S. Both 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 160 horsepower and 141 lb-ft. of torque. For
2005, the potent Type-S model receives engine and exhaust system modifications
that boost horsepower from 200 to 210 and torque from 142 lb.-ft to 143 lb-ft.
Engine output was optimized by applying high performance camshafts and enlarging
the diameter of the intake duct by 10 percent. A larger diameter exhaust pipe
and free-flowing catalytic converter helped to boost horsepower by increasing
exhaust flow by 10 percent.
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 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. For
2005, the final drive ratio on this transmission was lowered to provide even
quicker acceleration while shift feel was improved by applying carbon
synchronizers on fifth and sixth gear.
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 is optimized with firmer springs and dampers, a front
strut tower bar and a rear performance rod.
For 2005, the suspensions on both RSX models were optimized through an
assortment of modifications designed to enhance handling while promoting an even
smoother ride. Suspension enhancements for 2005 include a revised geometry,
reduced ride height, retuned bushings, thicker stabilizer bars, firmer damper
settings and inversely wound front coil springs that neutralize unwanted
steering input caused by spring windup. On the Type-S model, the strength of the
performance rod was also increased to help maintain precise suspension geometry,
while the front damper top bushing was replaced by a bearing, for smoother
steering response.
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 larger 11.8-inch
ventilated discs up front. For 2005, a larger diameter master cylinder was
applied to increase hydraulic pressure, the rigidity of the brake pedal
increased and the pedal stroke was reduced. These enhancements combined to both
enhance stopping power and improve braking feel.
The RSX utilizes a high-mounted rack-and-pinion power steering system that
provides enhanced tracking stability, and toe control as well as a linear
steering feel. This system was enhanced for 2005 by applying a quicker steering
ratio, a more rigid steering column and by increasing pump flow by seven percent
to provide more responsive steering and an even more linear, on-center steering
feel.
The
RSX model wears grippy 205/55R16 Michelin all-season high-performance tires on
restyled five-spoke alloy wheels. To further enhance the Type-S model's handling
prowess for 2005, restyled 17x7-inch alloy wheels and Michelin 215/45R17
all-season high-performance tires were applied.
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. For 2005, Acura updated the styling to make the RSX look lower,
faster and more aggressive. In front, the fascia has been redesigned with lower,
rectangular air ducts, aggressive-looking tri-beam headlights and a new
Acura-family grille. Side sills on the RSX are now body colored, while the side
sills on the Type-S are more substantial, and wrap further around the car to
highlight the new wheels and tires. The rear of the RSX was redesigned with new
taillight assemblies, a new bumper, larger diameter exhaust tips and, on the
Type-S, a deck lid spoiler. The result for both models is a more aerodynamic car
that gives off a strong feeling of mass and power.
The 2005 RSX is available in the following exterior colors: Taffeta White,
Nighthawk Black, Satin Silver Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, Premium White Pearl
(Type-S only), and Milano Red. Four additional exterior color options added for
2005 include: Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, Jade Green Metallic and
Blaze Orange Metallic, which replace Artic Blue Pearl, Eternal Blue Pearl and
Desert Silver Metallic.
The
interior of the RSX features a driver-oriented cockpit that has been updated for
2005. The seats have been redesigned with more supportive side bolsters and a
thicker lower cushion for increased comfort on long drives and support during
aggressive cornering. Titanium accents have been added to the integrated
headrests and to several key points around the cabin including the step garnish,
the shifter boot ring (models equipped with manual transmission) and the hand
brake.
Standard safety highlights 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 2005 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.
By AcuraImport on Thursday, August 26 2004
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