The Acura RSX Is Back… But It’s An Electric SUV Now

First, it was the Mustang Mach-E. Then it was the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. And now… Acura is resurrecting the storied RSX nameplate and slapping it on an SUV.. and an electric one at that.

Yep, the once-beloved sporty coupe is coming back as a bold, all-electric, high-tech crossover. Whether you love or hate the idea (we fall into the latter), there’s no denying the Acura RSX Prototype is certainly getting some attention, both online and in person.

The striking Propulsion Yellow Pearl prototype made its global debut at Monterey Car Week, stealing the spotlight at both The Quail and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance events. And make no mistake, this isn’t just a dressed-up concept that will vanish in the wind. Acura says the production version is coming in the second half of 2026.

The First Acura EV Built In-House

Make no mistake, this isn’t another rebadged GM platform or a half-measure hybrid. The new RSX will be the first Acura engineered entirely in-house on Honda’s new global EV platform. It will also be the first EV built at Honda’s EV Hub in Ohio, on the same line as the Integra.

“The dramatic styling of our Acura RSX Prototype demonstrates that it’s not just a new EV, but a compelling all-new Acura model,” said Lance Woelfer, vice president of Auto Sales at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “RSX will deliver on nearly four decades of Acura Precision Crafted Performance brand DNA with appealing design and cutting-edge technology.”

All-Electric, All-Wheel Drive, All the Toys

Acura’s loading this thing up from the jump: dual-motor AWD, sport-tuned double wishbone front suspension, Brembo brakes with red calipers, and a low center of gravity. So yeah, it’s not just for the Whole Foods parking lot.

Not only that, but it’s also got a fun party trick – the RSX can double as mobile energy storage, capable of powering devices, appliances, and even acting as backup power for your home.

ASIMO OS: Your Car, Your Digital Wingman

Acura’s not just slapping a big battery in an SUV and calling it a day. They’re launching ASIMO OS, a brand-new operating system designed to learn your driving style, music tastes, and other preferences. It’ll even get over-the-air updates to add features after you buy it.

“Starting from this all-new RSX we will redefine the Acura brand around timeless beauty and a high-tech feel that is essential for a performance and unique brand,” said Yasutake Tsuchida, Acura Creative Director and vice president of American Honda R&D.

It’s like having a smartphone on wheels, except it can also smoke a lot of “sports sedans” at a stoplight.

Design: Coupe-Like SUV With NSX DNA

The RSX Prototype takes its cues from last year’s Acura Performance EV Concept, rocking a fastback roofline, deeply sculpted sides, flush door handles, an integrated ducktail spoiler, and massive 21-inch wheels. The full-width rear light bar even gives a nod to the second-gen NSX.

Up front, the Diamond Pentagon grille design has evolved with separated LED headlights and razor-sharp daytime running lights that scream “get out of my lane.”

It’s not a bad looking vehicle at all. But to me, it looks VERY similar to the Tesla Model Y. Not a bad vehicle to emulate, considering it’s the best-selling vehicle in America. But they could have tried differentiating it a little more.

When & Where You’ll See It Next

If you’re lucky enough to be at Monterey Car Week, you can catch the RSX at The Quail on August 15th and on the Concept Lawn at Pebble Beach on August 17th.

Love it or hate it, the RSX is the latest in a growing list of legendary car names getting the SUV/EV treatment. At least Acura seems determined to make this one fast, high-tech, and worthy of the badge.. even if it’s sitting higher off the ground than any RSX ever has.