NEW YORK, NY 04/12/2001 -- Acura's stable of class-leading luxury performance vehicles gets a powerful shot of adrenaline with the arrival of the much anticipated 2002 Acura RSX sports coupe &emdash; the all-new replacement for the legendary Acura Integra.

"The RSX can take your driving experience to a higher level," says Dick Colliver, executive vice president of Acura. "Coming on the heels of the TL and CL Type-S models and the sportier 2002 RL, the RSX really puts the exclamation point on Acura's commitment to exhilarating performance, luxury and style."

The new RSX is available with two all-new high-tech and extremely potent engines. To deliver a race-bred driving experience, the RSX is equipped with a 16-valve, DOHC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that uses Acura's revolutionary i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control system producing an impressive 160 horsepower and 141 lb.-ft. of torque while also enhancing fuel efficiency and emissions control.

The i-VTEC system combines VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) with new VTC (Variable Timing Control) which continuously adjusts camshaft phasing for enhanced performance and efficiency across a broad power band. The all-aluminum engine mates to either a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic transmission.

For those looking to push the performance envelope even further, a Type-S version of the RSX is available, powered by a high-output version of the twin-cam, 2.0-liter engine that produces a remarkable 100 horsepower per liter for a maximum output of 200 horsepower and 142 lb.-ft. of torque. As the ideal complement to this high-tech powerplant, the RSX Type-S is equipped with an all-new, close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission.

Remarkably, given their considerable power, both RSX engines meet stringent Low Emissions Vehicle-II (LEV-II) standards and are designed to run for 105,000 miles before the first scheduled tune-up.

To meet the demands of the true driving enthusiast, engineers developed all-new suspension and steering systems with exceptional handling precision, outstanding cornering grip and a smooth, controlled ride. To achieve these goals, the RSX employs new variable-assist rack-and-pinion steering and a newly designed Control-Link MacPherson strut front suspension that greatly enhances cornering performance while minimizing weight and maximizing interior room. At the rear, the RSX features a new, compact double-wishbone system that helps deliver quick, confident handling and a smooth, compliant ride.

On the Type-S, the suspension is optimized with firmer springs and dampers, and a larger front stabilizer bar for even greater responsiveness and road feel.

Standard four-wheel disc brakes with a 3-channel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) help to ensure crisp brake performance and secure stopping power. The RSX is equipped with

10.3-inch vented discs in front and 10.2-inch discs at the rear. To match its additional performance capabilities, the Type-S uses larger 11.8-inch vented discs up front. Each RSX model wears beefy 205/55R16 Michelin all-season high-performance tires on 16-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels.

Inside, the RSX features an exceptionally dynamic and "driver-tuned" cockpit design. Large-diameter, metallic-face gauges with a backlit design are grouped in a pod that angles toward the driver. A sporty three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel is standard. Ample head and legroom ensure a comfortable ride for both front and rear passengers, while a 17.8-cubic-foot cargo area (with 50/50 fold-down rear seats) delivers abundant storage capacity and flexibility. Standard safety features include dual front airbags and side airbags, dual seatbelt pretensioners on both front seats, and side-impact protection pads.

Like all Acura models, the RSX is fully featured for outstanding comfort and convenience. Standard amenities on all RSX models include an Automatic Climate Control