Rumored to be accompanied by a Type-R variant, the Acura NSX will surely stamp its mark as a red-hot halo vehicle for Honda.
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Dynamic Development Leader of the NSX project, Nick Robinson, told Autocar that there is a strong will within Honda to build a Type R version of the NSX, but the project has yet to be given an official green light. That could involving making Honda’s limited edition supercar rear-wheel drive and a bit more hardcore with active aero as well. One of them will eschew the hybrid powertain for an upgraded biturbo 3.5-liter V6 engine which has been equipped with electric superchargers. This is actually integrated even inside the standard model with Robinson confirming the NSX uses a “maintenance mode” which can deactivate the electric assist motors and even the anti-lock braking system.
While it certainly hasn’t been slated on the whole, it’s fair to say the long-awaited second-generation Honda NSX has experienced a fairly lukewarm reception from the world’s motoring press thus far. Although not all of that would be dispensed with to create a Type R – the rear drive motor, which would act as an alternator, starter motor and flywheel would remain – its loss would make a considerable difference to the NSX’s 1725kg kerbweight.
[.] there is a huge will within Honda do to it – and the hope that the new NSX is just the start of a revival of the company’s sporting heritage. The engine will be turbocharged and supercharged and will make more power than the regular auto.
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Robinson also let slip to Autocar that a convertible version of the NSX is a very likely addition to the lineup. “I’m not that convinced by a convertible myself yet, but technically it’s possible”, Robinson said.
