Honda Integra (fourth generation)

(Redirected from Acura RSX)

The fourth-generation Honda Integra (chassis code DC5), produced by Honda, was introduced in Japan on 13 April 2001 and produced from July 2001 until August 2006. It was introduced in North America on 2 July 2001[2] as the Acura RSX, the name a part of Acura's naming scheme changing the names of its models from recognizable names like "Integra" or "Legend" to alphabetical designations in order for buyers to build more recognition to the marque, and not the individual cars.[3]

Honda Integra
Fourth generation (DC5)
2002 Honda Integra (Australia)
Overview
ManufacturerHonda
Model codeDC5
Also calledAcura RSX (North America)
ProductionJuly 2001 – August 2006
Model years2002–2006
Assembly
DesignerHideaki Uchino, Masashi Shimada (2000)[1]
Body and chassis
ClassSport Compact
Body style3-door liftback coupé
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine
Power output
  • 160 hp (119 kW; 162 PS) (K20A3)
  • 200 hp (149 kW; 203 PS) (K20A2)
  • 210 hp (157 kW; 213 PS) (K20Z1)
  • 220 hp (164 kW; 223 PS) (Type R)
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,570 mm (101.2 in)
Length4,385 mm (172.6 in)
Width1,725 mm (67.9 in)
Height1,385–1,400 mm (54.5–55.1 in)
Curb weight1,170–1,230 kg (2,579–2,712 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorHonda Integra (third generation)
Successor

Chassis and drivetrain

edit

In concordance with the introduction of the Integra's platform mate, the seventh-generation Civic being introduced in 2000, the Integra joined the Civic in abandoning Honda's traditional double wishbone suspension at both ends and adopted MacPherson struts in the front and trailing arm type suspension in the rear along with the new K-series engine supplanting the B-series.

The K-series engine features intelligent VTEC (or i-VTEC), which electronically adjusts valve lift and duration between separate cam profiles, as well as valve timing with the implementation of a continuously variable sprocket, giving the 2.0 L engine a flatter torque curve relative to previous VTEC implementations which only adjusted valve lift and valve duration.[4]

Facelift

edit

The Integra received a facelift in 2004. The headlight and taillight assemblies lost the "half circle" on the bottom. This made the assemblies flush with the bumpers. The interior received new trim and gauge clusters, an immobilizer and alarm became standard, the body became stiffer, the suspension springs were redesigned, and the car's tendency to bump steer was reduced.[5]

Markets

edit

Japan

edit

In Japan, the Integra was introduced in two versions, the iS (later renamed Type S in the 2004 refresh) and the Type R.

The iS/Type S (not to be confused with the RSX Type-S), featured the 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder K20A3 engine with an output of 160 hp (120 kW) and mated to either a 5-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. The 2001–2003 iS was available with 15-inch steel wheels with covers, or optional 16-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels. The 2004–2006 Type S was equipped with 17-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels shared with the RSX Type-S. The JDM Type R had reduced weight, a 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder K20A engine that output 217 hp (164 kw)  (Japan-only; Oceania models use an engine similar to the RSX Type-S), 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission, as well as a helical limited-slip differential (LSD), stiffer springs and shocks, high intensity discharge (HID) bulbs paired with specially designed reflector headlights (different from all other RSX models), aluminum pedal set, 4-piston front Brembo brake calipers, 17-inch 5 double-spoke wheels on Bridgestone Potenza tires, Recaro suede seats/matching interior, leather-wrapped MOMO steering wheel, body trim, front strut bar, and more. The Type R lacked many of the luxury features (like vanity mirrors or side airbags) found in the Type S, true to its racing heritage. The C package on the Type R added various accessories, such as a rear wiper, remote control, and folding mirrors.[6] The JDM iS had one interior color, Ebony, in its first year. After 2002, Titanium interiors became available for all exterior colors. The Type S had redesigned cloth and leather seats. The Type R had choices of black/blue/red interiors (including color matching Recaro seats), depending on exterior colors. The refreshed Type R had the option of either the high wing, or the trunk lip spoiler. Both the iS and Type S were available with sunroof, and navigation systems.[7] Additional interior and exterior accessories were available from Honda's Modulo line. Modulo accessories offered include interior trim (shift knobs, decals, etc.), foglights, aero kits (front/side/rear bumper enhancements), wing spoilers, alloy wheels, push button start, upgraded speakers, and navigation.

Japan's vehicle parts road compliance regulations means many tuning parts for the Integra can be purchased from Honda dealerships. For example, M&M Honda, a Honda dealer, manages their own brand of parts.[8] Honda tuner Mugen sells their performance parts via Honda dealers as accessories.[9][10]

 
Honda Integra Type R Mugen Front side
 
Honda Integra Type R Mugen Rear
 
Honda Integra Type R Mugen Interior
Exterior Color Interior Color iS Type S
Taffetta White Ebony/Titanium X
Premium White Pearl Ebony/Titanium X
Alabaster Silver Metallic Ebony/Titanium X
Satin Silver Metallic Ebony/Titanium X
Magnesium Metallic Ebony/Titanium X
Desert Silver Metallic Ebony/Titanium X
Jade Green Metallic Ebony/Titanium X
Eternal Blue Pearl Ebony/Titanium X
Vivid Blue Pearl Ebony/Titanium X
Nighthawk Black Pearl Ebony/Titanium X X
Milano Red Ebony/Titanium X X
Blaze Orange Metallic Ebony/Titanium X
Exterior Color Interior Color Type R
Championship White Black Red
Milano Red Black Red
Satin Silver Metallic (2002–04) Black Red
Alabaster Silver Metallic (2005–06) Black Red
Nighthawk Black Pearl Black Red
Eternal Blue Pearl (2002–04) Black Blue
Vivid Blue Pearl (2005–06) Black Blue

Oceania

edit

In Australia, the Integra was available in four models: the base model, simply named Integra, Luxury, Type R and Type S. The base Integra was simply the Japanese-market iS, while the Luxury added accessories like leather-wrapped seats and a sunroof. Australian Type Rs were different from the JDM models, as they were not equipped with all of the features of the latter. They lacked the Brembo braking system, used the 200 hp K20A2 in place of the slightly more powerful K20A, and regular 16-inch 5-spoke wheels, painted in gun metal or white, were used instead of the 17-inch, 5 dual-spokes. However, the Australian Type R does retain the JDM model's helical limited-slip differential, and full Type R interior (MOMO steering wheel, aluminum pedals and shift knob, Recaro seats and color matched carpets) and aero (wing and front/rear bumper lips). The Type R was dropped in 2004, and replaced by the Type-S, which was mechanically identical to the USDM RSX Type-S (though it did lack cruise control), but badged like the JDM Type-S. With the Integra's refresh in 2004, the base model was dropped. The only trims available in 2006 was the Luxury and Type-S.[11] Black was the only interior color available for the redesign. For facelifted Oceanic models, extra strengthening was given to fit higher safety regulations.

Exterior Color Integra Integra Luxury Type R (02-04) Type S (05-06)
Championship White N/A N/A Black/Red N/A
Premium White Pearl Black Black N/A Black
Milano Red Black Black Black Black
Satin Silver Metallic Black Black Black N/A
Nighthawk Black Pearl Black Black Black/Red Black
Arctic Blue Pearl N/A N/A Black/Blue N/A
Eternal Blue Pearl Black Black N/A N/A
Vivid Blue Pearl (2005–06) N/A Black N/A Black
Magnesium Metallic (2005–06) N/A Black N/A Black
Blaze Orange Metallic (2005–06) N/A Black N/A Black

New Zealand only had two models, the VTi and Type R. The VTi came standard with alloy wheels, but was otherwise the same as the JDM iS. The Type R was also replaced by the Type-S like Australia in 2004. NZDM Type R models are the same as AUDM ones, but did not have ABS.

Exterior Color Integra VTi Type R (2002–04) Type S (2005–06)
Championship White N/A Black/Red Black
Premium White Pearl Black N/A N/A
Milano Red Black Black Black
Satin Silver Metallic Black Black N/A
Nighthawk Black Pearl Black Black/Red Black
Arctic Blue Pearl N/A Black/Blue N/A
Eternal Blue Pearl Black N/A N/A
Vivid Blue (05-06) N/A N/A Black
Magnesium (05-06) N/A N/A Black
Blaze Orange (05-06) Black N/A Black
Blade Green (05-06) Black N/A Black

United States

edit
 
2005–06 Acura RSX Type-S, with A-Spec small trunk lip spoiler and A-Spec/Type R wing.

In the US, the Acura RSX was available in two models: the base model, simply named RSX and the Type-S. The RSX came standard with numerous features, such as cruise control, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, power windows and a power moonroof. The RSX came with the 160 hp (120 kW) 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder K20A3 engine throughout the entire production run.[a] Sport cloth seats were standard with optional perforated leather interior. Also available were optional 16-inch 7-spoke alloy wheels, which were very similar to those of the USDM DC2 Integra Type R (only 1 inch larger). The base model RSX was available with either a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and Grade Logic Control.

From 2002-2004, the Type-S was equipped with a 200 hp (149 kW) 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder K20A2 engine. Beginning in 2005, the engine was replaced with a more powerful 210 hp (157 kW) 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder K20Z1 engine[13][14][b]

The Type-S was only available with a close-ratio 6-speed manual. The Type-S included additional features such as sport seats with perforated leather-trimmed interior, sport-tuned suspension, gunmetal painted wheels, 11.8-inch ventilated front disc brakes, larger sway bars and a Bose 7-speaker sound system (including a subwoofer mounted on the spare tire) with AM/FM tuner, cassette and 6-disc in-dash CD changer.[15]

One peculiar note for the initial 2002 model year[clarification needed] were two available options. HID projector headlights from the Integra Type R was made available to the RSX for $1,500.[16][unreliable source?]

In 2005, the RSX and RSX Type-S received a styling refresh. On the exterior, the headlights and taillights were updated while the Type-S received an updated rear hatch spoiler. The base model received 12-spoke Enkei alloy wheels, while the Type-S came with 17-inch 5-spoke Enkei/Asahi wheels wrapped in Michelin HX MXM4 215/45/R17 tires.[14] 17-inch Enkei J10s alloy wheels (with Acura specific fitment and center caps) were optional. The Type-S received a higher-output engine which included the camshafts, b-pipe and muffler, 4.77 final drive ratio, crankshaft pulley and the intake snorkel duct from the Japanese Type R.

The "A-Spec Performance Package" was a dealer-installed option for the Type-S. The body kit is essentially a debadged JDM Honda Modulo kit, while the wing is from the Type R. The package included a sport suspension system, under-body spoiler kit, wing spoiler (with stronger hatch shocks to hold additional weight), exterior badging and 5 dual-spoke 17 x 7.5-inch gun metal wheels with Yokohama AVS E100 225/45/R17 tires.[17][18][19]

The RSX had numerous exterior color options but only two interior colors: Black (Ebony) and Beige (Titanium). The exterior color choice would dictate the interior color. Some colors were available in either trim package while other colors would be available in one trim level but not the other.

In 2002, color options were as follows:[20][unreliable source?]

Exterior Color Interior Color Base Type-S
Taffetta White Titanium X
Premium White Pearl Titanium X
Satin Silver Metallic Ebony X X
Desert Silver Metallic Titanium X X
Arctic Blue Pearl Ebony X
Eternal Blue Pearl Ebony X
Nighthawk Black Pearl Ebony X X
Firepepper Red (2002 only) Titanium X X
Milano Red Titanium X X
Redondo Red Pearl (2003 only) Titanium X X

In 2006, the available color combinations were as follows:[21]

Exterior Color Interior Color Base Type-S
Taffetta White Titanium X
Premium White Pearl Titanium X
Alabaster Silver Metallic Ebony X X
Magnesium Metallic Ebony X X
Jade Green Metallic[22] Titanium X X
Vivid Blue Pearl Ebony X X
Nighthawk Black Pearl Ebony X X
Milano Red Titanium X X
Blaze Orange Metallic Ebony X

Canada

edit

Three models were available in Canada: Base, Premium and Type-S. The base model came equipped with a cloth interior, no moonroof, unpainted side skirts and front lip and 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers and lacked cruise control and anti-lock brakes. The Premium model added a power moonroof, 16-inch alloy wheels and heated leather seats. The Type-S came equipped with a 200-210 hp (depending on the model year) 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, larger front brakes, a BOSE sound system with a spare tire-mounted subwoofer, stiffer suspension, an oil cooler and an upper strut tower bar. The A-Spec package was available to the Type-S models. All Canadian cars with leather seats were heated along with side view mirrors.

The refresh in 2005 brought the same updates as USDM cars. The base model now has standard alloy wheels (16-inch, 12-spoke). Sport cloth seats are standard in 2005, optional leather in 2005-2006.

Wheel types varied according to model year. 2002-2004 models had a 15-inch steel wheel with covers (Base), 16-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels in silver (Premium) or gunmetal (Type-S). 2005-2006 had 12-spoke wheels for both Base and Premium. Type-S had the 17-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels. Acura branded Enkei J10s, 16-inch old ITR, and 17-inch 5-dual spoke A-Specs were available as accessory wheels.[23]

The CDM (Canadian Domestic Market) RSX had the same interior as the USDM RSX, however the exterior and interior colours are different. e.g. CDM Taffeta/Premium White Pearl exterior cars came with Ebony black interiors.

Safety

edit

The RSX came equipped with dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, front side airbags with passenger-side OPDS,[24] 3-point seat belts with load limiters and pretensions for front passengers, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes and side-impact door and floor beams.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has determined crash test ratings of the RSX.[25]

NHTSA scores
Acura RSX (2002–2006)
Frontal Driver:      
Frontal Passenger:      
Side Driver:      
Rollover:      

Performance

edit
  • 0-60 mph: 6.3 sec (2002–04 Type-S)
  • 0-60 mph: 6.2 sec (2005–06 Type-S)[26]
  • Top speed : (drag limited) 145 mph (233 km/h)[26]
  • Standing 1/4-mile: 15.8 sec (2002–06 Base)
  • Standing 1/4-mile: 15.1 sec (2002–04 Type-S)
  • Standing 1/4-mile: 14.6 sec (2005–06 Type-S) @ 95 mph[26]
  • 70 mph-0 mph braking distance : 181 ft (55 m)[26]
  • 300 ft (91 m) skidpad : 0.86 g[26]
  • EPA Fuel Economy: 24 mpg‑US (9.8 L/100 km; 29 mpg‑imp) city/31 mpg‑US (7.6 L/100 km; 37 mpg‑imp) highway[27]

Awards

edit

The RSX was named in Car and Driver's 10 Best List in 2002 and 2003.[28][29]

Racing

edit

Acura won the Manufacturers' Championship of the SCCA World Challenge Touring Car class in 2006, running both RSXs and TSXs. RSX drivers finished in 5th and 9th in the Drivers' Championship.[30] Kensai Racing used RSXs and TSXs in the KONI Challenge Series.[31] Badged as a Honda, the DC5 won the British Touring Car Championship with Matt Neal in 2005 and 2006, for Team Dynamics (branded as Team Halfords after the title sponsor). When competing a K24 engine swap from an Acura TSX or installing a supercharger/turbocharger is done by many.

Sales

edit
Calendar year US[32]
2001 16,401
2002 30,117
2003 24,292
2004 21,940
2005 20,809
2006 16,996

Notes

edit
  1. ^ Engine was rated 155 hp (116 kW) after SAE net revision[12]
  2. ^ Rated in 2006 as 201 hp (150 kW) due to SAE hp calculation revision.[12]

References

edit
  1. ^ "AUTOMOBILE" (PDF). Retrieved 9 June 2023.
  2. ^ "Acura Announces Pricing for RSX Sports Coupe". 29 June 2001.
  3. ^ Flint, Jerry. "Acura: The Honda That Didn't". Forbes. Retrieved 3 August 2019.
  4. ^ "How VTEC/I-VTEC Works". SuperStreetOnline. 6 August 2013. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  5. ^ "JDM Honda Integra Type R DC5 Changes (Facelift Description)". www.integratyper.org. Retrieved 3 August 2019.
  6. ^ "JDM Honda Integra Type R DC5 Changes (Facelift Description)". Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  7. ^ "DC5 JDM 2001 Honda Integra Type-R" (PDF). integratyper.org. Retrieved 9 June 2023.
  8. ^ "ホンダ車のチューニング/M&M HONDA WEB SITE". Retrieved 3 August 2019.
  9. ^ "MUGEN Order System". online.mugen-power.com. Retrieved 3 August 2019.
  10. ^ "MUGEN Order System". online.mugen-power.com. Retrieved 3 August 2019.
  11. ^ Honda Australia Brochure
  12. ^ a b Jim Flammang. "2006 Acura RSX". Archived from the original on 22 July 2015. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  13. ^ 2005 Acura Brochure http://www.auto-brochures.com/acura.html
  14. ^ a b "2005 Acura RSX Type-S". Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  15. ^ "2006 Acura RSX". Archived from the original on 15 July 2015. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  16. ^ "Acura RSX - Paint codes | Acura RSX, ILX and Honda EP3 Forum". 19 July 2017.
  17. ^ "2002 Acura RSX Color Options - CarsDirect". CarsDirect. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  18. ^ "2006 Acura RSX Color Options - CarsDirect". CarsDirect. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  19. ^ https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/first-drives/reviews/a9925/acura-rsx-type-s-a-spec/ [bare URL]
  20. ^ "2002 Acura RSX". Retrieved 23 May 2016.
  21. ^ "2006 Acura RSX". Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  22. ^ "Everything You Need To Know About Acura's Type S Performance Badge". 13 April 2021. Retrieved 19 May 2021.
  23. ^ Acura Canada
  24. ^ "Honda Safety - Airbag Innovation".
  25. ^ "1990-2010 Vehicle Search Results - Safercar -- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)". Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  26. ^ a b c d e "2005 Acura RSX Type-S - Specs". caranddriver.com. Archived from the original on 15 December 2009. Retrieved 12 August 2009.
  27. ^ "2005 Acura RSX Type-S - Specs". EPA. Retrieved 12 August 2009.
  28. ^ "2002 Acura RSX Awards and Accolades at carmax.com". Archived from the original on 21 September 2015. Retrieved 14 July 2015.
  29. ^ "2003 Acura RSX Awards and Accolades at carmax.com". Archived from the original on 28 September 2015. Retrieved 10 November 2015.
  30. ^ "Curran Tastes Victory In Speed World Challenge Touring". Archived from the original on 14 October 2007.
  31. ^ "Kensai Racing Total Motorsport Performance Products". Kensairacing.com. Archived from the original on 25 August 2018. Retrieved 3 October 2010.
  32. ^ "Honda Newsroom". Honda Newsroom. 6 June 2023. Retrieved 9 June 2023.
edit