Acura may have pulled the plug on the ZDX just a year and a half into its launch, but it is not giving up on EVs entirely. The company is working on a smaller and sportier model for the U.S. and plans to launch it as the ‘RSX,’ a brand it used for a sporty two-door coupe in the early 2000s.
At the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, we got up close with the prototype version of the all-electric Acura RSX SUV and made some interesting observations. Here’s what we think about the upcoming Acura EV, after seen it in person.
Design
The all-electric RSX carries forward the design language previewed on the Acura Performance EV Concept from August last year. It has the stance of a performance SUV, with proportions aided by the flexibility of a dedicated EV platform.
The coupe-like roofline and deeply sculpted body sides give it a dynamic profile. A ducktail-style integrated spoiler finishes the rear, further contributing to its sleek look.
The front fascia extends Acura’s Diamond Pentagon grille into a bolder interpretation, flanked by sharp, separated headlamp clusters. The daytime running lights are slim and aggressive, while the low-mounted LED headlamps provide a distinctive look.
Flared wheel arches house 21-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels with large Brembo brakes with red calipers. A long wheelbase pushes the wheels outward, tightening overhangs and giving the RSX a planted look.
At the rear, a full-width light bar is reminiscent of the NSX, and “ACURA” lettering spreads across the tailgate in a new typeface.
Having spent time around the car, we can confirm that Acura’s performance-oriented identity is safe, and these futuristic elements clearly distinguish the all-new RSX as a purpose-built EV.
Interior
Acura has not revealed the interior of the RSX EV, but the production model should predictably feature a minimalist yet high-tech cabin. The big news here is ASIMO OS, Honda’s new in-house developed operating system for the infotainment, driver-assistance, and vehicle systems.
ASIMO OS is designed to function like a smartphone operating system, with support for downloadable apps and frequent over-the-air updates. Through machine learning, it will learn the driver’s behavior and preferences, personalizing in-car experiences such as music playback, navigation, and climate control.
Expect a digital instrument cluster, a large central touchscreen, and premium finishes in line with other Acura models. Vehicle-to-load and Vehicle-to-home energy sharing should allow the RSX to power household appliances and tools or provide backup power during a blackout.
Advanced driver assistance will be standard, with Acura’s next-generation suite of active safety technologies. These systems will be managed through ASIMO OS to ensure updates without having to visit the service center, expanding features over time.
Specifications
The all-electric Acura RSX rides on Honda’s new global EV platform, and unlike the ZDX, has no relation to GM’s technology. Acura says it is the first model engineered fully in-house on this architecture, which is flexible to underpin multiple body styles.
Powertrain details are limited, but the prototype confirms a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup. Brembo brakes, sport-tuned double wishbone suspension at the front, and a low-mounted battery pack are observed on the prototype vehicle, which hints at seriously sporty handling. The low center of gravity and weight distribution enabled by the dedicated platform should help with fast cornering as well as ride comfort.
We expect the Acura RSX EV to have an EPA-est. range of up to around 300 miles and hit 0 to 60 mph as quickly as in under four seconds, which can be competitive specifications for the compact to midsize class in the U.S. The company should confirm details closer to launch, possibly in early 2026, but from what we’ve experienced, it looks like a promising package.
Manufacturing
The SUV-coupe will be manufactured in Ohio at Honda’s new EV Hub, on the same line as the Integra. Acura’s flexible manufacturing approach here allows gas, hybrid, and EVs to be built together.
Price & Release Date
Acura plans to launch the RSX EV in the U.S. in the second half of 2025 and could price it from around USD 50,000.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
