Ever since the Acura NSX ceased production in 2005, there has been lots of speculation about the re-birth of the mid-engine Japanese supercar. Acura/Honda has brought a few concept NSX cars to auto shows over the years but none of them made it to production models but that might change with the introduction of the all-new Acura NSX Concept, presented at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Acura says this car will make it to production within the next three years, we have our fingers crossed.
Like its predecessor, the new NSX will be mid-engined and will be powered by a naturally aspirated V6 engine, however, this time Acura will include three electric motors and Acura’s SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive). The V6 engine will come with the company’s famous VTEC technology and feature direct injection, power will be sent to the rear wheels via a dual-clutch transmission with a built-in electric motor. Two other motors will be placed at each of the front wheels providing torque during cornering for improved handling and better fuel economy.
Looks-wise, the Acura NSX concept looks pretty good; it’s small, low to the ground, and has aggressive lines. It does remind me a bit of the Audi R8 but with more edges rather than the R8’s rounded curves, it also looks somewhat like the Lotus Esprit concept, which is not a bad thing.
I think if/when this car goes into production, it should be a success (and god does Honda ever need a nice car like this in their lineup). It has good looks, should have great performance, and it might even be good on gas – something not normally associated with supercars. I’m also glad the days of the SUV are finally over and auto manufacturers are back to producing exciting sports cars, it took about two decades but I guess the wait was worth it.
The Acura NSX concept has already made it to Gran Turismo 5 game, video presentation below.
Acura NSX Concept Pictures:
