2026 Acura RSX Prototype: Legend Comeback
The 2026 Acura RSX Prototype heralds a legend’s comeback—now as a high-performance electric crossover coupe. Discover its look, interior amenities, performance, safety, price, release date, and Acura’s aggressive EV plan.
Introduction: The RSX Legacy Recharged
Few of Acura’s past letters evoke as much nostalgia as R-S-X. To many of the enthusiast community, the early-2000s RSX was the affordable dream car: taut handling, rev-happy VTEC motors, and a swoopy coupe shape that made it a tuner icon. It was the gateway drug to Honda’s performance heritage, the type of vehicle that got you hooked on driving.
But times move on. Coupes yielded to crossovers, combustion yielded to electricity, and nostalgia yielded to new expectations. Acura could have left the RSX name behind, stuck in the good old days. But instead, they set out to re-imagine it—fearlessly, boldly, unapologetically—into a sleek electric crossover coupe that heralds Acura’s future.
The 2026 Acura RSX Prototype is not about the past—it's about moving ahead.
Interior: Premium Craftsmanship, EV Future
Step inside the RSX Prototype, and it becomes clear: this isn’t just a car, it’s a living space on wheels. Acura is betting big on interiors because EV buyers don’t just want speed—they want comfort, tech, and sustainable luxury.
Build Quality: Acura mix soft-touch Nappa leather, open-pore wood, brushed aluminum, and some recycled fabrics sourced from sustainable suppliers. Every panel feels premium, with tight gaps and solid finishes.
Design Philosophy: Spartan but not barren. Driver-first design with an overheard digital cluster and central touchscreen that’s neither tacked on like some competitors nor anywhere near as busy.
Tech & Infotainment: This RSX introduces ASIMO OS, Acura’s new AI-based infotainment platform. Nicknamed for Honda’s iconic humanoid robot, ASIMO OS applies machine learning to adapt settings to you, learn your routines, and optimize energy consumption. OTA (over-the-air) updates keep the system current.
Comfort Features:
Panoramic electrochromic glass roof switch to tint at the touch of a button
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Multi-zone climate with air-purifying technology
Immersive ELS Studio 3D audio system
It’s an interior built not only for driving, but for living—where every element speaks to Acura’s premium positioning.
Performance: Electric Precision Meets Heritage DNA
Acura didn’t revive the RSX nameplate to make another EV crossover. Performance has always been the soul of the RSX, and the 2026 prototype maintains that essence.
Platform: Unlike Acura ZDX (based on GM’s Ultium), RSX is based on Honda’s new internal global EV platform. That provides Acura with full control over performance tuning, battery architecture, and software.
Powertrain: Dual-motor AWD for instant traction and torque. Acura hasn’t yet announced horsepower ratings, but look for performance on a par with Tesla Model Y Performance and Polestar 3—approximately 400–500 hp.
Chassis and Dynamics:
Double-wishbone front suspension for improved cornering
Brembo high-performance brakes for unflappable stopping power
A low-mounted battery pack dropping center of gravity
Driving Modes: Adaptive modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual), along with regen-on-demand paddles for one-pedal driving.
Translation? This RSX is not a quiet appliance—it’s designed to have a pulse.
Safety: AcuraWatch 360+ Evolves
Acura has been a pioneer in driver-assist technology for years, and the RSX Prototype demonstrates its next-level Acura Watch 360+ suite:
Predictive AI adaptive cruise that “reads” traffic patterns
Natural-feeling lane-centering that doesn’t intrude
360° camera system with augmented reality overlays (imagine navigation arrows projecting onto the road ahead)
Collision mitigation with pedestrian, cyclist, and even motorcycle detection
EV-tuned crash protection, with impact-resistant battery protection
It’s a vehicle that protects not just you, but the people around you.
Capabilities: Beyond a Commute
The RSX is not only about performance; it’s about being useful in ways that combustion vehicles never were.
Bidirectional Charging (V2L): Use your RSX to power equipment at a campsite, power your fridge during a power outage, or charge another EV that broke down on the side of the road.
Space & Utility: In spite of its coupe-like roofline, Acura designed smart cargo solutions, flat-folding seats, and under-floor storage.
Charging: Though final charging specifications are not announced, Acura assured DC fast charging capability, with projected 20–80% in ~30 minutes.
OTA Future-Proofing: As with Tesla, Acura guarantees ongoing upgrades to driving dynamics, infotainment, and even battery efficiency through software updates.
It's a car that learns, changes, and growwith you.
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Acura RSX will arrive in the $55,000–$65,000 range, depending upon trim and performance levels. Production in late 2026 starts at Honda’s Marysville, Ohio EV Hub, with North American deliveries starting in early 2027. Global rollouts (Europe & Asia) will follow.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
First Acura EV on its own platform
Luxurious interior with sustainable luxury
Dual-motor AWD and sport-tuned suspension
Bidirectional charging for real-world versatility
Sleek coupe-SUV design that turns heads
Cons:
Fans might grief the loss of the traditional RSX coupe
Last specs (range, horsepower, charging) still unclear
Price will probably be higher than competitors such as Hyundai Ioniq 5 N or Kia EV6 GT
Final Verdict
The 2026 Acura RSX Prototype is more than a nameplate revival—it’s a rebirth. Acura has reimagined all that made the original RSX great (performance, looks, youth energy) and brought it into the EV era. With state-of-the-art software, upscale interiors, and driving fun top of mind, the RSX is Acura’s most significant EV to date.
It’s powerful, it’s futuristic, and it’s evidence that electrification doesn’t equal the demise of passion behind the wheel.
FAQs
Q: Is the 2026 Acura RSX all-electric?
A: Yes. The RSX Prototype is Acura’s first EV based on its in-house global EV platform, with dual-motor AWD and innovative battery tech.
Q: When does the 2026 Acura RSX arrive?
A: Production starts late 2026 in Ohio, with deliveries in early 2027.
Q: How much will the 2026 Acura RSX cost?
A: Target pricing is $55,000–$65,000, depending on trim and options.
Q: What tech does the RSX offer?
A: The RSX introduces ASIMO OS, Acura’s AI-powered infotainment system with OTA updates, personalization, and smartphone integration.
Q: How does the RSX stand up against competitors?
A: It will go up against the Tesla Model Y Performance, Polestar 3, and Lexus RZ, but strikes a unique balance between luxury, performance, and real-world practicality.
