Acura’s first in-house electric vehicle, the RSX SUV, returns with a new design and a nostalgic name, marking a key milestone for the brand.
Acura Unveils New RSX Electric SUV: A Bold Step Forward
Acura is reintroducing the RSX nameplate with its first fully electric vehicle designed specifically for the U.S. market. This new model takes inspiration from the brand’s earlier performance coupe, which was discontinued in the mid-2000s, and returns in an exciting electric SUV form. While the name was previously associated with the front-wheel-drive Acura RSX coupe, this fresh iteration is a testament to Acura’s evolving strategy in the electric vehicle (EV) segment.
The RSX will be smaller than the electric ZDX SUV, which is Acura’s first-ever EV, though it was developed in collaboration with General Motors using their Ultium platform. In contrast, the RSX will be built on an entirely Honda-designed electric platform, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to homegrown innovation. Styled with a coupe-inspired fastback silhouette, the RSX embodies Acura’s sporty heritage while embracing modern electric technology.
Production of the RSX will take place at Honda’s newly revamped EV Hub in Ohio, marking a significant milestone as it will be the first fully electric vehicle produced at this plant. The Ohio facility, which previously produced vehicles with internal combustion engines, has undergone significant upgrades to accommodate both traditional and electric models on the same production line.
Beyond the RSX, Honda is also developing an extensive lineup of EVs under its 0 Series platform. This series will include a luxury sedan as a flagship model and an additional SUV, both slated for release by 2026. These vehicles will use the same foundational architecture as the RSX, establishing a shared future direction for Honda and Acura’s EV offerings.
The RSX’s revival had been anticipated for months, especially after Honda trademarked the name in Japan last fall. While some speculated it might be a performance-oriented version of the Honda Prelude, another iconic model set for a hybrid comeback, the RSX is shaping up to be a distinct electric entry.
The RSX name itself has deep roots, previously applied to a rebadged version of the Honda Integra, which was sold exclusively in North America. The model had a brief run from 2002 until its discontinuation in 2006, after which it was replaced by the unpopular Acura ILX. However, with the return of the Integra and now the RSX, Acura is aiming to bring back the excitement of its performance-oriented roots.
As for other new developments, the 2025 Acura ADX crossover is expected to launch this spring, expanding Acura’s luxury vehicle offerings. Meanwhile, Honda is preparing to launch several refreshed models, including a hybrid-powered Honda Prelude and updates to the Civic and Accord lines, with hybrid variants becoming increasingly popular.
Looking ahead, Honda’s electric ambitions are clear. The company is set to expand its EV footprint with more vehicles like the Prologue and ZDX, while also enhancing infrastructure, including the integration of Tesla’s Supercharger network via NACS adapters. With hybrid sales continuing to grow, Honda is positioning itself for a stronger presence in both the EV and hybrid markets in the coming years.
