The 2026 Acura RSX Is The Latest Of Honda's Strange Decisions, But It Is How The Brand Makes Up For Lost Time, And Still Caters To The Enthusiast

Like other Japanese carmakers, Honda and Acura are reviving iconic nameplates from the past. This has been a recurring theme over the last decade or so, but sadly, not every nameplate praised by enthusiasts returns as an enthusiast-centric model. 

The 2026 RSX is the latest example. What was once known as one of the most fun, front-wheel-drive Japanese sports cars has become an all-electric coupe crossover SUV. So, why is Acura doing this?

Honda and Acura are making up for lost time in the electrification game

It is no secret that Honda was lagging behind the competition heavily in terms of electrification. Now, after lagging behind for years, Honda and Acura are overdoing it as every other new model of the Japanese brand features some degree of electrification. When it comes to Honda’s current BEV lineup, I think the Honda Civic e:HEV is the best of the bunch. It manages to give the Corolla Hybrid a run for its money while being almost as fuel-efficient and more engaging to drive. 

On the downside, the sixth-generation Honda Prelude returned as a hybrid without a manual, and we have yet to see what the upcoming Type-S and Type-R models will be like. To top it all off, I still struggle to understand why Honda neutered the eleventh-generation Accord by removing its most exciting engine option when demand was there.

All Japanese unlike ZDX

From an enthusiast standpoint, the 2026 Acura RSX seems to be a disappointment. Many hoped the Integra would be a sporty coupe, inspired by its predecessor, but instead, we got a hatchback. Nevertheless, the Integra is selling well, despite the initial criticism from fans, which quickly forgave the five-door hatchback design when the high-performance Integra Type-S made its debut as a more refined Civic Type-R.

When it comes to the new Acura RSX, I see a few redeeming features. Yes, it is now a fully-electric crossover coupe. Firstly, the 2026 Acura RSX will be Japanese. While it will be built in the Honda EV Hub in Marysville, Ohio, it will feature all-Acura parts. This is a welcome contrast to the Acura ZDX, which is built in General Motors' Spring Hill facility in Tennessee, and also uses a lot of GM parts. This is one of those instances where cost-cutting tends to bite you in… you know where. Luckily, Acura is learning from its mistakes.

Is the Acura RSX still for the enthusiast? 

About those redeeming features I mentioned earlier, I think the RSX is a bold yet sensible move. EV demand is still there, and the new Acura RSX electric SUV has set its sights on the Ford Mustang Mach-E market. Both models provide fully-electric, all-wheel-drive sporty character with decent practicality. But can an all-electric SUV appeal to the enthusiast?

Say what you will about the RSX, but I think it looks stunning. The design, especially in that Indy Yellow Pearl, reminds me of a Lamborghini Urus, without all the unnecessary creases. A clean, sharp design, invoking the brand’s performance-oriented mindset. 

Power output for the 2026 Acura RSX has not yet been quoted, but we know it will feature a dual-motor setup with all-wheel-drive capability. No word on a base, single-motor variant yet, but if there is one, you can be sure it will be rear-wheel-drive, similar to the Mustang Mach-E. Solidifying the RSX’s sporty character is a sport-tuned, double-wishbone front suspension, with emphasis on responsiveness and crisp turn-in. I had great fun testing the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, so I am curious if the range-topping Acura RSX can measure up.

The Japanese model is expected to start at around $40,000, which is in the same neighborhood as Ford’s electric SUV. I am curious to hear your thoughts on the 2026 Acura RSX? I think the biggest problem with Acura’s revived RSX is the stigma surrounding performance EVs. What do you think of this iconic model returning as an electric SUV? Would you choose one over the Mustang Mach-E? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.

Image source: 2026 Acura RSX EV press release