Acura Brings Back the NSX Supercar...As a Hybrid
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Ever since Acura ditched the much-loved NSX back in 2005, Honda hasn’t had an “everyday supercar” to call its own.
Now the Japanese automaker has decided to let the venerable NSX be reborn: as a leaner, faster, greener version of its former self: the Acura NSX Hybrid Concept.
On display at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, the NSX concept mixes a direct-injected V-6 engine with a dual-clutch transmission and an electric motor to give what we hope will be some pretty impressive performance figures.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Better still, the new NSX uses electric motors all round to give the car all-wheel drive, perfect for sure-footed handling on and off the track.
Interestingly, Honda has declined to give any performance or efficiency figures yet, but given its extra power -- not to mention a lighter chassis -- we think it has to be better than the original car.
Overall, the NSX Hybrid Concept is 3.7 inches shorter, 0.4 inches shorter and 3.3 inches narrower, with a 1.8 inch longer wheelbase.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Combined, these new dimensions -- not to mention massive 19 inch front and 20 inch rear wheels -- should result in a lower center of gravity and better handling characteristics than the original NSX.
While the Acura NSX Hybrid is just in Concept stage at the moment, it looks almost production-ready.
But don’t let the looks fool you: Honda plans to give the task of reintroducing the NSX to its engineering team in Ohio.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}And that means combining Honda’s legendary engines, its new-found drive towards green engines, and U.S. inspired sportscar engineering.
Can you have it all? Maybe you can.
We can't wait.
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