Acura decides to kill the RSX coupe

Acura will kill the RSX coupe at the end of the 2006 model year. John Mendel, senior vice president of automobile operations at American Honda Motor Co., says the company is considering replacements for its cheapest vehicle but would not elaborate. Some dealers say Acura will add a coupe version of the TSX.

Elimination of the RSX, Acura’s least expensive vehicle by about $8,000, looks like part of Acura’s long-term plan to move upscale and separate from sibling brand Honda.

This summer Acura will introduce the small RDX all-wheel-drive crossover, Acura’s first vehicle with a turbocharged engine. A redesigned MDX SUV goes on sale this fall with a V-6 engine that Acura promises will deliver more horsepower than any other vehicle in its class.

The RSX was introduced in 2002 and freshened in the 2004 model year. U.S. sales fell 10.6 percent the first three months of this year, to 4,150 units.