Not trying to dog the RSX's at all, but I agree with Mason. For honda to release the new Si on the world is basically them committing suicide with the RSX. Or so it would seem, anyways.
Only way for them to save it is to release the Type R on the US, and I'm sure there's not a soul who would complain about that.
And when you get technical in terms of resale and stuff, the RSX *does* have the Acura badge going for it. Acuras almost always hold their value better than Hondas, just because 90% of Americans are snobs. That's why we have the luxury lines in the first place (Infinity, Lexus, Acura, etc). The question that only time will tell is if the Acura badge will hold its value enough to keep people buying the, IMHO underpowered RSX. I mean, think about it.
Civic Si: First appearance is around 1992ish, with the Si hatch. D16z6, putting out about 115whp. Woo. Now, it's putting out 197, and has made HUGE improvements.
DA Integra GSR: B17a1 if I'm correct... approx 140whp. Now putting out 201. From 94-2001 the integra did not change as far as numbers go. Type R was putting out 190ish, GSR 180ish, etc. From the integra to the RSX, it seems like Honda really had the chance to make something AWESOME. The K series engines are proven to respond well to modifications, and with the trend moving towards factory aftermarket performance (read: Scions, for example, can be had with AEM intakes and DC exhausts from the factory), Honda really had a chance to set the mark. Why not release some Mugen goodies in the US? Why not make a factory turbo kit available? Suspension upgrades beyond the stiffer springs found on the type S?
Basically, Honda had a chance to do something great with the RSX, and they fell on their face. They basically made an integra with new sheet metal. While the RSX technically is an integra, why does the civic get all the glory? Some people argue that the civic is the longest import production car in history, from 71 to 06 (and by the way I'm surprised Honda isn't doing a 35th anniversary something. Lord knows rustangs played it up enough). But the DC integra (94-01) is the longest running unchanged chassis in Honda history. They change the civic every 3-4 years.
Basically, I just can't understand why Honda is paying so much attention to the Civic Si when they should be focusing on the RSX/Integra... The Civic Si will sell itself with its name alone. Put your efforts into making the RSX a truly badass machine, Honda!
And I'll go trotting back to the del Sol forum now.
Peace!