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Automobile April
12, 2001 |
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| All-New 2002 Acura RSX Boasts Leading-Edge Technology, Performance and Refinement |
New York, April
12, 2001 -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Headquarters: Torrance, California;
President : Koichi Amamiya) announced that Acura's stable of class-leading
luxury performance vehicles gets a powerful shot of adrenaline with the
arrival of the much anticipated 2002 Acura RSX sports coupe, the all-new
replacement for the legendary Acura Integra.
"The RSX can take your driving experience to a higher level," says Dick
Colliver, executive vice president of Acura. "Coming on the heels of the
TL and CL Type-S models and the sportier 2002 RL, the RSX really puts the
exclamation mark on Acura's commitment to exhilarating performance, luxury
and style."
The new RSX is available with two all-new high-tech and extremely potent
engines. To deliver a race-bred driving experience, the RSX is equipped
with a 16-valve, DOHC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that uses Acura's revolutionary
i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control system -- producing an impressive
160 horsepower and 141 lb.-ft. of torque while also enhancing fuel efficiency
and emissions control. The i-VTEC system combines VTEC (Variable
Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) with new VTC (Variable Timing
Control), which continuously adjusts camshaft phasing for enhanced performance
and efficiency across a broad power band. The all-aluminum engine mates
to either a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed Sequential
SportShift automatic transmission.
For those looking to push the performance envelope even further, a Type-S
version of the RSX is available, powered by a high-output version of the
twin-cam, 2.0-liter engine, which produces a remarkable 100 horsepower per
liter for a maximum output of 200 horsepower and 142 lb.-ft. of torque.
As the ideal complement to this high-tech powerplant, the RSX Type-S is
equipped with an all-new, close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission.
Remarkably, given their considerable power, both RSX engines meet stringent
Low Emissions Vehicle-II (LEV-II) standards and are designed to run for
105,000 miles before the first scheduled tune-up.
To meet the demands of the true driving enthusiast, engineers developed
all-new suspension and steering systems with exceptional handling precision,
outstanding cornering grip and a smooth, controlled ride. To achieve these
goals, the RSX employs new variable-assist rack-and-pinion steering and
a newly designed Control-Link MacPherson strut front suspension that greatly
enhances cornering performance while minimizing weight and maximizing interior
room. At the rear, the RSX features a new, compact double-wishbone system
that helps deliver quick, confident handling and a smooth, compliant ride.
On the Type-S, the suspension is optimized with firmer springs and dampers,
and a larger front stabilizer bar for even greater responsiveness and road
feel.
Standard four-wheel disc brakes with a 3-channel Anti-Lock Braking System
(ABS) help ensure crisp brake performance and secure stopping power. The
RSX is equipped with 10.3-inch vented discs in front and 10.2-inch discs
at the rear. To match its additional performance capabilities, the Type-S
uses larger 11.8-inch vented discs up front. Each RSX model wears beefy
205/55R16 Michelin all-season high-performance tires on 16-inch, five-spoke
alloy wheels.
Inside, the RSX features an exceptionally dynamic and "driver-tuned" cockpit
design. Large-diameter, metallic-face gauges with a backlit design are grouped
in a pod that angles toward the driver. A sporty three-spoke, leather-wrapped
steering wheel is standard. Ample head- and legroom ensure a comfortable
ride for both front and rear passengers, while a 17.8-cubic-foot cargo area
(with 50/50 fold-down rear seats) delivers abundant storage capacity and
flexibility. Standard safety features include dual front airbags and side
airbags, dual seatbelt pretensioners on both front seats, and side-impact
protection pads.
Like all Acura models, the RSX is fully featured for outstanding comfort
and convenience. Standard amenities on all RSX models include an Automatic
Climate Control System, keyless entry system with anti-theft immobilizer,
power mirrors, and power windows with an auto-up/down feature on the driver's
window. Handsome fabric with simulated suede trim graces the sporty, deeply
bolstered seats of the RSX. Perforated leather seating surfaces are optional
on the RSX and standard on the Type-S. All RSX models are also equipped
with a powerful six-speaker music system with in-dash CD player. The Type-S
features an even more impressive Acura/Bose®
Music System, which includes an AM/FM/cassette/in-dash 6-disc CD changer,
and, in the cargo area, a new Bose RichbassTM
woofer for outstanding bass response.
The exterior styling of the RSX communicates a message of power and precision
with short front and rear overhangs, sweeping curves and sharply chiseled
accent lines. A distinctive front fascia is highlighted by large, bright
multi-reflector headlights, deeply beveled chin spoiler and signature Acura
grille, while thin A- and B-roof pillars and compound-curved window glass
provide exceptional visibility all around.
Complete details and information will be available closer to the July on-sale
date of the RSX. While pricing has not been finalized, RSX prices are expected
to range from $20,000-$25,000 with an annual sales target of 30,000 units.
(Pricing information applies to the US only).
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| Acura RSX Type-S
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Like all Acura models, the 2002 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.
Acura offers a full line of premium performance vehicles through a nationwide
network of nearly 260 dealers. The Acura line-up features six distinctive
models including the exotic NSX supercar, the 3.5 RL flagship luxury sedan,
the best-selling 3.2 TL luxury performance sedan, the 3.2 CL luxury performance
coupe, the new race-bred RSX sports coupe, and the revolutionary MDX luxury
sport utility vehicle. For more information about Acura vehicles, please
visit www.acura.com.
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