The 2026 Acura RSX EV revives a legendary name as a performance-focused electric crossover. Featuring up to 600 hp, a 289–350 mile range, dual-motor AWD, and Honda’s new 0 Series EV platform, it launches in early 2026 with OTA updates, premium tech, and Type‑S performance options.
When Acura officially announced the return of the RSX nameplate in the form of an all‑electric vehicle, it sparked excitement among car enthusiasts and EV fans alike. The RSX, which once defined early 2000s sporty compact coupes, is now making a bold return as a high-performance electric crossover. With its projected 350‑mile range, 600 horsepower dual‑motor setup, and cutting‑edge Honda EV technology, the 2026 Acura RSX EV aims to bridge the gap between nostalgia and the future.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the new RSX: its release date, range, specs, and Honda’s EV strategy. Whether you’re a former RSX owner or an EV enthusiast looking for your next electric ride, this article will give you a complete picture of what to expect.
The Acura RSX holds a special place in automotive history. Initially launched in 2002, it replaced the beloved Integra in North America and quickly became a favourite among young performance drivers. The lightweight chassis, K-series VTEC engines, and available Type‑S trim made it a tuner icon. However, the RSX’s production ended in 2006, leaving fans wondering if it would ever return.
Fast forward two decades, and Acura is reviving the RSX name for a new era—this time as a fully electric compact SUV. Why an SUV instead of a coupe? Market demand has shifted dramatically, and crossovers now dominate sales charts. To remain competitive and meet global emissions goals, Acura is leveraging the RSX’s sporty heritage to create an EV that combines performance, utility, and efficiency.
With the 2026 Acura RSX EV, Honda is signalling that its EV future isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about fun‑to‑drive, enthusiast‑friendly performance vehicles that carry forward the brand’s racing spirit.
Acura officially confirmed the RSX EV in January 2025, alongside its plan to transition toward in‑house EV development after initially partnering with GM on the Prologue and ZDX. According to Honda, production will begin in late 2025 at its new EV Hub in Ohio, which will serve as the core manufacturing site for Honda and Acura’s next generation of electric vehicles.
Acura is expected to open pre-orders in Q4 2025, allowing buyers to reserve their RSX EV months before official dealership arrivals. This mirrors how brands like Ford (with the Mustang Mach‑E) and Tesla manage EV launches to gauge demand.
What makes this release special is that it marks Honda’s first original EV on its own 0 Series platform, as opposed to borrowing platforms like Ultium. This strategic shift is crucial because it ensures greater control over software, battery tech, and vehicle architecture, allowing Acura to optimise performance and efficiency for the RSX.
One of the most critical factors for EV buyers is driving range, and the Acura RSX EV is aiming to compete with Tesla, Polestar, and BMW in this area. While Acura hasn’t released official EPA ratings yet, industry leaks and concept specs suggest the RSX will deliver:
This puts the RSX in line with competitors like the Tesla Model Y Long Range (330 mi) and the Polestar 2 Dual Motor (320 mi). Real‑world driving may vary, but the goal is to provide long-distance practicality without frequent charging stops.
Honda’s Asimo OS will also optimise battery management, ensuring predictive charging routes and energy‑saving drive modes. Paired with regen braking options, the RSX will cater to both efficient cruising and spirited driving.
Performance has always been core to the RSX identity, and the new EV version is no different. While Acura hasn’t finalised all specs, early reports and leaks point to impressive numbers:
Beyond straight-line speed, Acura is focusing on handling and driving feel, using low centre of gravity battery placement, sport‑tuned suspension, and torque vectoring AWD. This ensures the RSX EV will honour its sporty heritage, even as a five‑door crossover.
The 2026 RSX is more than just a new model—it represents Honda’s EV turning point. Initially, Honda relied on GM’s Ultium platform for its first wave of EVs like the Prologue and Acura ZDX, but the RSX will debut on Honda’s proprietary 0 Series architecture.
By combining performance heritage with modern electrification, the RSX aims to redefine Acura’s place in the EV market.
The 2026 Acura RSX EV is not just about numbers and performance—it’s also a design statement. Acura has carefully crafted a crossover silhouette that merges sporty coupe styling with modern EV aerodynamics.
From the outside, the RSX carries a low, aggressive stance with a sweeping roofline that pays homage to the original 2002–2006 RSX coupe. Instead of a traditional grille, the front fascia features a closed panel with Acura’s Diamond Pentagon motif, integrated with LED light strips that act as a visual signature.
Inside, the RSX balances sportiness with futuristic luxury. The driver-centric cockpit features a wraparound digital interface, a 15-inch floating infotainment screen, and a fully digital gauge cluster. Acura also introduces ambient lighting with multiple colour modes and a premium ELS Studio 3D sound system for audiophiles.
This combination of driver-focused ergonomics and premium comfort ensures the RSX appeals to both enthusiasts and families looking for a high-tech EV.
Acura is equipping the 2026 RSX EV with state-of-the-art safety and driver assistance technologies, leveraging its Honda Sensing 360+ suite. With EVs becoming increasingly software-defined, safety now combines traditional sensors with AI-driven predictive behaviour.
But the RSX goes beyond conventional safety with advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems):
By integrating cloud connectivity and machine learning, the RSX is designed to get smarter and safer over its lifespan, ensuring that buyers enjoy a future-proof EV experience.
In a rapidly expanding EV market, the Acura RSX EV must compete against Tesla, Polestar, BMW, and Hyundai/Kia. Here’s how it stacks up:
| Model | Range (mi) | 0–60 mph | HP / Torque | Price (Est.) |
| 2026 Acura RSX EV | 289–350 | ~5 sec | ~600 hp / 600 lb‑ft | $55,000–$65,000 |
| Tesla Model Y Long Range | 330 | 4.8 sec | 384 hp / 376 lb‑ft | $51,000 |
| Polestar 2 Dual Motor | 320 | 4.5 sec | 455 hp / 546 lb‑ft | $52,000 |
| BMW iX xDrive50 | 324 | 4.4 sec | 516 hp / 564 lb‑ft | $87,000 |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 N | 300 | 3.4 sec | 641 hp / 568 lb‑ft | $66,000 |
The RSX EV positions itself as a premium performance crossover at a more accessible price than European rivals while offering better range than most direct competitors. Tesla still leads in charging infrastructure, but Honda is partnering with seven automakers to build a massive fast‑charging network by 2030, ensuring RSX owners won’t be left behind.
While Acura hasn’t released official pricing yet, industry analysts expect the 2026 RSX EV to start around $55,000 for the base model and climb toward $65,000 for Type‑S or fully loaded trims.
Optional performance packages and software upgrades (like launch control or additional drive modes) will likely be offered via over-the-air activation, following Tesla’s subscription-based model.
Before the EV era, the original RSX defined accessible sport compact performance. Sold from 2002 to 2006, it replaced the Acura Integra in North America but maintained a strong enthusiast following thanks to its K‑Series VTEC engines and lightweight chassis.
The RSX became a tuner icon, appearing in street racing scenes, magazines, and games like Need for Speed. The 2026 RSX EV pays tribute to that spirit, not with a manual gearbox, but with instant EV torque, advanced handling tech, and a sleek coupe-inspired crossover design.
By reviving this legendary name, Acura hopes to bridge its performance heritage with the EV future, appealing to both loyal fans and a new generation of electric car buyers.
The announcement of the 2026 Acura RSX EV has generated significant buzz, both among long-time Acura enthusiasts and EV consumers looking for an alternative to Tesla. Consumer expectations are high because the RSX name carries nostalgia and performance credibility, while the EV market is becoming increasingly competitive.
Buyers expect the RSX EV to deliver a thrilling driving experience similar to the original Type‑S models.
Instant torque, precise handling, and sporty suspension tuning are essential.
The 289–350 mile projected range positions it well, but consumers expect fast, convenient charging.
The success of Honda’s planned fast-charging network will play a significant role in owner satisfaction.
Features like wireless CarPlay, AI-powered navigation, and OTA updates are now baseline expectations in premium EVs.
Acura will need to balance luxury, performance, and price to compete against the Tesla Model Y and BMW iX.
The RSX EV represents Acura’s entry into the core EV performance crossover segment, which is expected to dominate EV sales in the next 5 years. If successful, it can:
Automotive analysts predict that the RSX EV could double Acura’s EV market share by 2027, especially if the Type‑S trim captures the enthusiast market.
The 2026 Acura RSX EV is a key milestone in Honda’s electrification strategy, but it is only one piece of a larger plan. Honda aims to sell 100% EVs in North America by 2040, with the 0 Series being the foundation for all upcoming electric vehicles.
Moving away from GM partnerships to develop in-house EV technology.
Integrating AI-powered features, OTA updates, and autonomous driving upgrades across the lineup.
Honda is investing heavily in solid-state battery technology to achieve faster charging and a more extended range by 2030.
With the RSX EV, Honda is positioning itself as a serious player in the EV space, leveraging performance heritage and advanced software integration to differentiate itself from other automakers.
Like any new vehicle, the 2026 Acura RSX EV comes with its strengths and challenges. For buyers evaluating their next EV, here’s a clear breakdown:
Overall, the RSX EV offers more pros than cons, especially for buyers who want performance and style in a future-proof EV package.
Production begins in late 2025, with dealership availability in early 2026.
Between 289–350 miles, depending on trim and driving conditions.
The dual-motor AWD setup is expected to deliver 0–60 mph in about 5 seconds.
Estimated $55,000–$65,000, depending on trim level and options.
Yes, Honda’s Asimo OS will allow software, safety, and performance updates remotely.
The 2026 Acura RSX EV is more than a car—it’s a statement about Acura’s future. It blends performance, technology, and practicality while honouring the heritage of the original RSX.
If you’re considering the RSX EV, here are a few buying tips:
With the RSX EV, Acura is blending nostalgia with innovation, aiming to capture both old-school RSX fans and new EV enthusiasts.
Jake Harlan is a seasoned automotive journalist with over 10 years of experience. From family SUVs to high-performance sports cars, he delivers accurate, unbiased reviews and practical insights trusted by enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
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