Acura is ushering in a new era with the revival of the RSX nameplate, reimagining the beloved sport compact as a pioneering electric SUV. This uncamouflaged prototype offers a clear glimpse into the forthcoming production model, signifying a pivotal moment for the automaker as it introduces its first entirely in-house developed electric vehicle. The new RSX combines distinctive design elements from the Acura Performance EV Concept with cutting-edge technology, including the debut of the ASIMO OS. This next-generation operating system promises enhanced functionality and a personalized user experience through artificial intelligence. With production slated for late 2026, the RSX EV represents Acura's commitment to innovation and electrified performance, blending a cherished legacy with a forward-looking vision for sustainable mobility.

A Detailed Look at Acura's Electric RSX Revolution

In a thrilling revelation during Monterey Car Week, Acura showcased an undisguised prototype of its revamped RSX, signaling the triumphant return of a name synonymous with sport compacts, now reimagined as an electric SUV. This strategic move by Acura breathes new life into the RSX lineage, shifting it from its two-door hatchback roots into the burgeoning electric SUV segment.

Unlike the brand's ZDX model, which emerged from a collaboration with General Motors, the new RSX stands as a testament to Acura's independent engineering prowess. It is built upon a proprietary electric vehicle architecture, meticulously developed entirely in-house. This groundbreaking platform is poised to underpin Honda's forthcoming 0-series electric vehicles, underscoring its significance as a foundation for future electrified offerings.

While specific technical details remain under wraps until the official production debut, anticipated next year, Acura has confirmed several exciting features. The production-ready RSX will incorporate a standard NACS charging port and boast vehicle-to-load capabilities, enabling it to function as a mobile power source—a versatile addition for modern lifestyles. Furthermore, the company promises a dynamic driving experience, propelled by "powerful" dual electric motors delivering an all-wheel-drive configuration. Yet, precise figures for total power output, estimated driving range, and charging speeds are eagerly awaited.

Visually, the RSX prototype draws heavily from the Acura Performance EV Concept, previously unveiled at Monterey Car Week. Key design elements faithfully translated include a prominent, beak-like nose, sharp, high-mounted daytime running lights, and a distinctive light-up logo centrally positioned on the front fascia, creating an instantly recognizable brand signature. The SUV's exterior is further accentuated by a sleek fastback roofline, imparting a coupe-like silhouette despite its four-door configuration. This sporty aesthetic is enhanced by black-painted A-pillars and a matching roof, seamlessly blending into the rear bodywork. A dramatic ducktail spoiler extends from the edge of the rear hatch, adding an aggressive touch. The rear also features a full-width taillight, which Acura attributes as a homage to the second-generation NSX, albeit sharing some visual similarities with the refreshed Tesla Model Y. Instead of the traditional caliper-style logo, the rear proudly displays "Acura" spelled out.

The prototype's athletic stance is reinforced by its short front and rear overhangs and intricate 21-inch wheels, positioned strategically at the corners. Its vibrant Propulsion Yellow Pearl paint color ensures it stands out. While flush door handles and body-side vents are expected to carry over to the production model, the camera-fed exterior mirrors remain a conceptual flourish reserved for the prototype.

Although the RSX's interior remains a mystery, concealed behind tinted windows, Acura has confirmed the vehicle will debut the revolutionary ASIMO OS. This next-generation operating system, initially discussed at CES as part of Honda's prototype 0-series EVs, signifies Acura's first step towards creating a software-defined vehicle. ASIMO OS is designed for over-the-air updates, ensuring the vehicle can evolve and gain new features over time. Critically, it will leverage machine learning to adapt to individual driver behaviors and preferences, promising a truly personalized and responsive driving environment.

The journey from prototype to production will culminate with the official reveal next year, followed by manufacturing commencing in the second half of 2026. This landmark vehicle will be the first EV produced at Honda's EV Hub in Ohio, sharing its assembly line with the resurgent Integra—a harmonious coexistence that few would have predicted just a few years ago.

The Road Ahead: Embracing Electric Evolution and Intelligent Interaction

The reintroduction of the Acura RSX as an electric SUV is more than just a model update; it's a profound statement about the automotive industry's relentless march toward electrification and intelligent integration. From a journalist's perspective, this move perfectly encapsulates the delicate balance automakers must strike: honoring beloved legacies while boldly navigating future technological landscapes. The decision to transform the RSX, once a symbol of compact sportiness, into an electric SUV reflects the evolving consumer demand for versatile, eco-conscious vehicles without sacrificing performance or design flair. It's a calculated risk that, if successful, could redefine what a performance-oriented Acura can be in the electric age.

Moreover, the integration of ASIMO OS is particularly captivating. It signals a shift from mere vehicle ownership to a dynamic, evolving relationship between driver and machine. The concept of a car learning and adapting to an individual's habits, offering a personalized experience, moves beyond simple convenience; it suggests a future where vehicles are truly intelligent companions. This level of personalized interaction, powered by AI, could fundamentally alter our expectations of what driving means. As readers, we should ponder the implications of such sophisticated systems: will they enhance safety and efficiency, or will they raise new questions about privacy and control? Regardless, Acura's RSX prototype is not just showcasing a new car; it's unveiling a glimpse into an interconnected, intelligent, and electrifying automotive future.