November 19, 2004 - Day One
After a few successful years in the Acura line-up, the RSX sees its first minor change. The Acura RSX replaced the Acura Integra in 2002. At the time, many enthusiasts and Integra lovers were sad to see the car's run end. At the same time, a new design was welcomed as some form of change was long overdue.

Along with the old design went the old 1.8L (B18) engine, replaced by a larger displacement 2.0L engine (K20A). The RSX is built on a newer platform that will keep buyers happy with the RSX. It's much quieter and better overall than the last generation Integra--better being a better daily driver and with more bells and whistles.

Pricing
$23,570 is the new MSRP for the 2005 RSX Type-S. Destination charge is $570. If you're into exterior stuff the RSX has options like the front under body spoiler($399), rear under body spoiler ($320), side under body spoiler ($500) and the door edge trim runs a cheap $39.

Other options are carry-over from 2004 like the trunk tray($99), all-season, floor mats($60), ashtray, billet shift knob RSX (red, chrome, blue; $66,98) luggage Net ($47), Cigarette Lighter ($49), titanium-look interior trim($249), aluminum shift knob-6MT ($49).

Styling
Acura didn't change much on the RSX, but at the same time, the carmaker changed a whole lot. The most noticeable exterior differences on the car are the characteristic RSX headlights and taillights that have been modified.

Remember the jutting circular housings on both ends? Well, they're gone. The overall shape of the wedge-like headlights and sleek taillights are more or less the same, but they are no longer integrated into the bumper. Instead the headlamps receive a redesign that has more in common with the new Acura RL.

The jewel-like taillights on the back end look like the last generation Integra or even Prelude. The front fascia and rear bumper have been, too, changed to remain consistent with the new head and taillight designs. There's a lot going on with the new rear bumper, maybe too much for some, but we like the look.

We were uncertain if we'd like the new look for the RSX, but have to admit it grew on us quickly. Part of the reason we like the new design is that the car doesn't look so playful or like a pricier Civic. This slight exterior redesign is enough to make the car stand even more on its own two feet as a true successor to Integ and a fitting member of the Acura family.

Interior works remains relatively unchanged. However, the materials, fit and finish in the cabin were always good in the RSX, moreso than the Integ. The 2005 RSX has the same interior with tiny little changes. We liked to begin with and we still do.

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