The Acura RSX is Returning As an Electric Crossover
Acura has been on a roll reviving iconic names from its history, with the Integra making its triumphant return as a sporty hatchback and the ZDX reimagined as the brand’s first electric SUV. Now, the Japanese luxury automaker is adding another fan favorite to its lineup: the RSX. But if you’re picturing a nimble, two-door coupe ready to carve up canyon roads, think again.
This time around, the RSX has been reinvented as a fully electric crossover, signaling a dramatic shift in how Acura plans to position the historic badge. And while some purists may balk at the transformation, the new RSX is setting its sights firmly on the future of performance SUVs.
Paying Homage With a New Vision
Acura is positioning the all-new RSX as a performance-oriented electric crossover, borrowing styling cues from its sporty predecessor while embracing modern EV capabilities. According to Acura’s assistant vice president of national sales, Mike Langel, the new RSX “pays homage to the Acura RSX with its coupe-like silhouette,” but it’s clear that this isn’t a nostalgia-driven reboot. Instead, the RSX serves as a forward-thinking interpretation of fun-to-drive performance, designed to thrive in an electric age.
Built on Honda’s new 0 Series platform, the RSX is expected to be a technological showcase for the brand. It will also be Acura’s first SUV to leverage this platform, which focuses on blending high performance with cutting-edge EV technology. Production is set to kick off later this year at Honda’s EV Hub in Ohio, with the RSX hitting dealerships in early 2026.
What to Expect From the New RSX
While Acura is keeping most details under wraps, the new RSX already has some promising specs and features. Honda’s 0 Series platform is engineered for competitive EV range, with Acura confirming that all models will achieve at least 300 miles of range per charge. Thanks to a 400-volt architecture, rapid charging will be another highlight, with the ability to juice up to 80 percent in just 15 minutes.
The RSX is also being billed as a “performance” SUV, which should translate to impressive acceleration and handling. While specific powertrain details have yet to be announced, the emphasis on driving enjoyment hints at a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive—potentially similar to the performance specs of the upcoming ZDX Type S.
Design-wise, the RSX will adopt a sleek, coupe-like profile that aligns with Acura’s latest design language. A teaser image reveals a sporty silhouette with aggressive lines, seemingly inspired by the Performance EV concept that Acura showcased at Monterey Car Week last year. Expect a bold front fascia, sharp LED lighting, and aerodynamic sculpting that gives the crossover a dynamic stance.
Next-Gen Tech Inside
The interior of the RSX is where Acura plans to make a technological leap. The crossover will debut Honda’s new Asimo operating system, a next-generation infotainment platform that promises seamless integration, intuitive controls, and cutting-edge features. First unveiled at CES this year, Asimo is designed to deliver a smarter, more connected driving experience. It also supports Level 3 automated driving, allowing for hands-free operation in certain scenarios—a first for the Acura brand.
Acura’s commitment to blending luxury, technology, and sustainability will likely be reflected in the cabin materials as well. Sustainable fabrics, premium finishes, and an advanced digital cockpit are all but certain, setting a high bar for the RSX’s debut.
A Nameplate for the Next Generation
For die-hard fans of the original RSX coupe, the idea of the nameplate reimagined as an electric crossover might feel like a betrayal. After all, the original RSX, sold from 2002 to 2006, was a sharp-handling, high-revving sports car that earned a cult following among driving enthusiasts. But in today’s automotive landscape—where crossovers dominate sales charts and electrification is the industry’s north star—this transformation isn’t surprising.
The RSX name still carries weight, and Acura is banking on that legacy to attract buyers who might otherwise gravitate toward rivals like the Tesla Model Y or Genesis GV60. By injecting the RSX with EV performance and the latest tech, Acura is hoping to appeal to both loyalists and a new generation of environmentally conscious drivers who still crave excitement behind the wheel.
The Road Ahead
As the RSX’s 2026 launch date approaches, we’ll undoubtedly learn more about what Acura has in store for this historic nameplate. From its performance credentials to its pricing strategy, there are still plenty of unanswered questions. But one thing is certain: Acura is determined to make the RSX a standout in the ever-growing field of electric crossovers.
Whether you view it as a bold evolution or a departure from tradition, the RSX’s return marks an exciting new chapter for Acura—and for enthusiasts ready to embrace the electric future.