Acura NSX Concept Debuts At Detroit Auto Show

Acura Press Release

The dynamically-styled NSX Concept gives an indication of the next great performance vehicle from the Acura brand. Making use of lightweight materials and a mid-mounted V-6 engine, the NSX Concept employs several new technologies for Acura, including application of Acura’s innovative new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD^® (Super Handling All Wheel Drive^™) hybrid system.

Utilizing a unique 2 Electric Motor Drive Unit with a Bilateral Torque Adjustable Control System, the all-new hybrid all-wheel-drive system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. Acura anticipates the new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD^® will deliver handling performance unmatched by previous AWD systems. In addition to the handling benefits of the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD^® system, a powerful next-generation VTEC^® V-6 engine with direct-injection works in concert with a dual clutch transmission with built-in electric motor to create supercar acceleration while offering outstanding efficiency.

“This Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system will make NSX the ultimate expression of Acura’s idea to create synergy between man and machine,” said Takanobu Ito, president and CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. “The NSX will make the driver one with the car to enhance dynamic driving abilities without getting in the way.”

While most supercars opt for brute force delivered from a large engine, the NSX Concept champions the true racing philosophy of an extremely favorable power-to-weight ratio.

“Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency,” added Ito, who led the development of Acura’s first NSX supercar. “In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities.”

The new Acura supercar, expected to debut in the next three years, will be developed by an engineering team led by Honda R&D Americas, Inc., and manufactured in Ohio, at a yet to be named facility.

Acura offers a full line of technologically advanced performance luxury vehicles. The 2012 Acura lineup features six distinctive models including the RL luxury performance sedan, the TL performance luxury sedan, the TSX sports sedan, the RDX luxury crossover SUV, and the Canadian-built MDX luxury sport utility vehicle and ZDX four-door sports coupe.

AUTO SHOWS:

First Look: 2013 Acura ILX Concept

January 09, 2012

By Evan McCausland

AutomobileMag.com

Since the brand's inception some 25 years ago, Acura has always offered an entry-level luxury model to draw young buyers to the brand for the very first time. Models like the Integra, RSX, and TSX have essentially served as gateway cars to the Acura lineup, but there's soon to be yet another model name on that list. The 2013 ILX, previewed by the so-called concept shown at the 2012 Detroit auto show, will soon serve as Acura's least-expensive offering.

The Civic's New Clothes
As we've previously reported, the ILX shares its foundation with Honda's latest compact offering, the 2012 Civic. But, unlike the Canadian-market CSX, this is a bit more sophisticated than a Civic with an Acura grille insert and emblems.

As can be seen, the ILX shares no exterior sheetmetal with its Civic sibling. Instead, it blends a TSX-like nose with a taut body that's both chiseled yet smoothed at the same time. Character lines on the front door panels give way to a ZDX-like kink in the rear fenders. That kink, in combination with a sharp upward bend in the daylight opening, lends the car a bit of a coupe-like look. The combination appears a bit ungainly in photography, but looks surprisingly good when viewed in person.

The interior follows Acura convention not only in terms of look, but available technology. ILX models will be available with keyless entry and ignition, Pandora internet radio connectivity, and a SMS text message interface. We're told a Technology Package - which typically bundles navigation with an upgraded audio system and a few other goodies - is also in the cards, but officials have yet to precisely describe content levels.