Body Overview
The RSX was designed with the driving enthusiast in mind and the bodywork leaves no doubt that this is a car designed for those who appreciate superior performance and precise handling.
From its rakishly angled hood to its broad stance, deep chin spoiler, and sleek, wind-cheating lines, the RSX says "speed" even when standing still. Yet the car's dramatic presence derives every bit as much from function as from form. Contoured window glass in the doors and quarter panels helps the RSX slip effortlessly through the air- and also provides exceptional visibility for all occupants. In front, a signature five-sided grille lends a distinctly "Acura" look to the nose, while neatly integrated taillights accent the rear. A smoothly integrated liftgate raises easily to reveal a spacious cargo hold.
Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) are minimized thanks toan exceptionally rigid unit body structure, extensive sound insulation, and extremely tight fit-and-finish tolerances. NVH is reduced with lightweight, noise-absorbing insulation in the roof and doors. Also, wind noise is reduced by weather stripping the gaps on the side mirrors, allowing air to pass smoothly between the mirrors and the side of the car.
Both RSX models have structural enhancements that improve rigidity in front and in the rear. Sporty exterior styling combines with the low ground clearance provided by the suspension and, on the Type-S model, the 17-inch wheels and tires, to evoke a powerful appearance. Aggressive front and rear fascias, side sills and, on the Type-S model, the application of a deck lid spoiler, help to make the RSX one of the most aerodynamic cars in its class.
Body At A Glance
Styling
- Sleek, dramatic bodywork with a broad stance, sharply raked hood, deep chin spoiler, and compound curved window glass
- Cabin-forward silhouette
- Short overhangs front and rear
- Deck lid spoiler (Type-S)
Quality And Refinement
- Tightly controlled noise and vibration
- Computer-designed structural reinforcements
- Significant reductions in body-panel fit tolerances
NVH Control
- Extensive sound insulation
- Melt sheets added to the floor to reduce interior noise
- Urethane foam seals in roof-pillar cavities
- Unique door-trim seals
Corrosion Resistance
- Double-sided galvanized steel in all high-corrosion areas
- Anti-chipping primer applied to leading edges of hood and fenders
- PVC and wax sealer applied to underbody
Exterior Styling
The 2006 RSX features exterior styling that gives the car a sleek, powerful look. The front fascia sports a low, aggressive front bumper, a triple-beam headlight treatment and an Acura family grille to create an impression of mass and help air flow smoothly under and around the car. In the rear, the bumper, wide exhaust finisher and taillight assembly continue the impression of power and speed.
The side sills on RSX models are body-colored. On the Type-S model, the side sills are more substantial and wrap farther around the car, enhancing its angular appearance and highlighting the 17-inch alloy wheels.
On both models, a neatly integrated lift gate affords easy access to the rear cargo area, while the smoothly bowed door and quarter-panel glass contributes to superb visibility and outstanding aerodynamics. Type-S models also have a deck lid spoiler integrated into the trailing edge of the trunk lid.
Short overhangs front and rear add to the lean, purposeful appearance, while clever packaging provides abundant cabin room for the driver and passengers.
The 2006 RSX is available in the following exterior colors: Taffeta White (RSX only), Nighthawk Black, Milano Red, Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, and Jade Green Metallic. Aspen White Pearl and Blaze Orange Metallic are available on the Type-S only. In addition for 2006, Global Silver Metallic will replace Satin Silver Metallic.
Precise Fit and Finish
With the combination of unique manufacturing techniques at the Sayama factory in Japan and the advanced design system, the fit tolerances of the RSX are extremely precise. The bumpers, door and tailgate openings, and body panels- all reflect an extremely high level of fit and finish. The result is a solid and integrated appearance, one befitting the RSX's sophisticated image.
Unit Body Structure
To provide the optimum ride, handling, safety, and NVH control, the RSX unit body was designed for maximum torsional rigidity without excess weight. To accomplish this, Acura engineers performed extensive computer analyses using the NASTRAN stress-analysis program. Then, in creating the final structure, the engineers specified a high percentage of lightweight yet strong high-tensile steel, and further enhanced rigidity using numerous strategically placed reinforcements.
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Body rigidity is enhanced through the application of reinforcements in key areas. Applying a thicker fitting base, adding a front upper arm and increasing the thickness of the wheelhouse walls improves front rigidity. An increase in the thickness of the rear cross member also improves rigidity.
Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH)
To reduce high-frequency road noise, the RSX features carefully developed door-trim seals, a styrofoam-molded cover over the spare tire, noise-insulating carpet, asphalt-based melt sheets in the floor and trunk areas, gap-sealing urethane foam in the front pillars, and a dashboard insulator to isolate the cabin from engine noise.
To further reduce engine noise, a subframe dynamic damper is applied to the Type-S models. This damper reduces engine rocking and minimizes the transmittal of noise and vibration to the cockpit. NVH was further reduced through optimization of the door seals, and the application of lightweight noise absorbing material to the roof and door panels. Side mirror gaps are minimized through the application of weather stripping at the base of the mirror, resulting in reduced wind noise.
Curved Window Glass
The doors and quarter-panels of the RSX are made of subtle, compound-curved glass that improves the car's smoothly integrated look while enhancing aerodynamic performance.