The 2005 RSX featured the first redesign since the car's release in 2002.  New front and rear fascia gave the car a sleeker look, and a more powerful (though still a 2.0-liter I4) engine offered 10 more horsepower, upping the horses to 160.  The Type S had its horsepower upped to 210.  Torque remained at 141 lb-ft for the standard and 143 lb-ft for the Type S.

Gas mileage is estimated at 27/34 for the 5-speed manual transmission, 25/34 for the 5-speed automatic, and 23/31 for the 6-speed manual on the Type S.

Major complaints surrounding the 2005 RSX center on its similarity to the Honda Civic, an apt comparison as the RSX is built on the Civic's platform.  Drivers want more power and torque.  Road noise continues to plague the 2005 RSX as well.  Drivers love the smooth shifting and handling.