The RSX Institute

Acura launches a new advertising campaign “The RSX Institute”. Problem – or more accurately “challenge” – is to sell the RSX when the new Civic Si exists. The Si has the same power, a better suspension, and a limited slip diff. It doe snot have the option of leather. Nevermind that underneath the cars share the same platform: Acura is attempting to help consumers understand why the Acura RSX exists anymore.

I have issues with a front wheel drive car that does not have a limited slip diff. I’ve spent time in an RSX Type S on a racetrack and the car is miserable without a limited slip – one wheel is always spinning like mad and handling is different to the right versus the left. And the RSX has too much body roll – making a bad problem even worse. Altogether a very unsatisfying car. And this does translate onto the street – any kind of limited traction (greasy hot pavement, rain, or even just too much power applied) and the same things will happen.

And it’s a real shame – the RSX has much more mature styling and a sane dashboard. It’s still known as the Integra in Japan (a label that should never have been dropped in the North American market) and there is even an R version with more power, a limited slip, Recaros, and Brembos (I have a Japanese market brochure for the INtegra R in my library). Exactly what should be sold here! It would cost a lot more – hence the Acura nameplate, but it would give Si owners something to move up to eventually. And, it’s been done before.

Unfortunately, the automotive press has suggested the car will eventually be cancelled altogether. Acura hasn’t said anything, so this is nothing more than rumor, but we also have a near total lack of investment as an indication of the importance of the RSX to Acura.