So we've got new styling, more power, improved handling, quicker steering and better brakes, all of which look good on paper, or

While revising the RSX Type S, Acura engineers had to ensure the car remained functional for everyday routine chores. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

should I say on a computer screen, but what about the drive - you know, the road test part of this review you ask. Well in a word, hot. The little RSX Type S is a hot ride and a lot of fun too. During its launch in western Canada, Acura's Hyato Mori, Supervisor of Product Planning, explained how the ideals of "fun," "easy," "safe" and "stable" led the designers and engineers during the RSX Type S revision. While striving to meet these qualities, the Type S had

The perfectionists at Acura pulled it off, the updated RSX is better than the prior model in both performance and refinement. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

to remain functional for everyday chores such as commuting to work and bringing home the groceries. This was a tall order considering that the preceding RSX Type S was a technically advanced product, introduced just three years ago to replace the spirited and much revered Integra; but the perfectionists at Acura pulled it off, improving the RSX's level of refinement in the process. It now generates less wind and engine noise thanks to revised engine mounts, sub-frame dynamic damping and a sport-tuned exhaust system. The latter of which screams with life when the throttle gate is wide open and the tachometer needle is swinging past 5,000 rpm.