TSX69

Frankfurt: Honda Confirms "New NSX"

Honda has begun work on a new sportscar in the mould of the iconic Honda NSX, president and CEO Takanobu Ito has sensationally revealed on the eve of the Frankfurt motor show.

However, the ‘new NSX’ will be radically different from its predecessor, with Ito stating that the goal will be to build a car that has a dramatic power-to-weight-ratio as opposed to outright power.

“I spent part of my early career at Honda developing the NSX, and specifically the aluminium body,” said Ito. “I really enjoyed that experience, and learned much, so it is my wish that Honda engineers have the experience of developing a sportscar like the NSX in future. Within Honda, our engineers are already looking at developing such a car.”

Ito declined to comment on when such a car could make production, but he stressed it would be a different vehicle to the original NSX, which weighed 1350kg and had 290bhp.

“You can’t depend on a high power output to call a car sporty anymore,” he said. “The original NSX was about high power but also good driving performance, and today power-to-weight is what we have to focus on. The NSX was known for its aluminium body, so when we develop our new sportscar we don’t want to copy Ferrari for power, but to also chase efficiency as well.”

A successor to the original NSX was originally planned to be launched in 2010, but was canned in December 2008 by then Honda CEO Takeo Fukui in reaction to the economic crisis and growing environmental concerns.

However, Ito is pushing for Honda to push its sporting credentials again, so long as they compliment its environmental stance.

“Our recent efforts have been focused on fuel efficiency, and that perhaps gives the impression Honda is behind with pushing the brand image of sportiness, but let me assure you that is not the case,” said Ito. “We will address that impression with our new generations of cars.”

mrgold35

I found this at:

http://www.superherohype.com/gallery...enncom#joomimg

It is going to be in the new Avenger movie. Could it be the next NSX?

TSX69

Honda CEO Confirms NSX Successor is in the PipeLine

Just the Facts:

Honda CEO Takanobu Ito drops a few more hints about the successor to the NSX sports car.
Ito said a new Honda sports car is under development that will focus less on outright power and more on power-to-weight.
Ito told Britain's Autocar: "it is my wish that Honda engineers have the experience of developing a sports car like the NSX in future."

FRANKFURT, Germany — Honda President and CEO Takanobu Ito has dropped a few more hints about the successor to the NSX sports car, first revealed by Inside Line earlier this year.

At last week's Frankfurt auto show, Ito, who helped develop the original NSX, told Britain's Autocar: "It is my wish that Honda engineers have the experience of developing a sports car like the NSX in future. Within Honda, our engineers are already looking at developing such a car."

At Honda's annual motorsports conference in Tokyo earlier this year, Ito revealed that Honda already had begun a feasibility study on a new sports car.

In 2010, Honda raced a pure prototype, the HSV-010 GT coupe, in Japan's Super GT series, winning the championship. Ito said the company had no plans to build a production version of the racecar, but it could very well inspire the NSX successor. At the time, Ito told Inside Line: "There is clearly a demand for that type of car that we must answer."

Honda's groundbreaking, midengine NSX was built from 1990-'05 and sold in the U.S. under the Acura brand. In 2008, the company killed a proposed front-engined V10 4WD supercoupe, ostensibly to rival Lexus' LFA, but a racing version, with a 3.4-liter V8, carbon-fiber chassis and rear-wheel drive, survived as the HSV-010.

Honda has not yet decided whether to build another midengine coupe, this time to rival the Audi R8, or to build a high-tech, ultra-performance hybrid with a $500,000 sticker.

Ito told Autocar that Honda's next sports car would be radically different from the original NSX, focusing less on outright power and more on the power-to-weight ratio.

"You can't depend on a high power output to call a car sporty anymore," Ito said. "The original NSX was about high power, but also good driving performance, and today power-to-weight is what we have to focus on. The NSX was known for its aluminum body, so when we develop our new sports car, we don't want to copy Ferrari for power, but to also chase efficiency as well."

Inside Line says: We're betting Honda won't challenge the LFA head-on, but as usual will come up with its own unique solution.

TSX69

Honda NSX Returns

The legendary Honda NSX supercar is back. These spy shots, taken on the set of the new Avengers movie, show a new Acura-badged Audi R8-sized supercar that previews a successor to the NSX.

Acura is Honda’s US-only luxury brand and the sports car was spotted in Central Park, New York, with actor Robert Downey Jr at the wheel. Its appearance is hugely significant for fans keen to see Honda return to the supercar arena.

Honda CEO Takanobu Ito recently hinted at the NSX’s revival, when he revealed: “We’re making progress with plans for an exotic sports car.” And 6 months ago, Ito said Honda was keen to relaunch a high-performance sports car like the NSX.

A Honda source told us that the Dual Note 4WD hybrid concept from the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show was our first glimpse at the technology that will underpin the NSX. It used a 3.5-litre V6 to drive the rear wheels and in-wheel electric motors to turn the fronts, generating over 400bhp.

10 years later, Honda is still perfecting the technology. A source said: “Honda wants to build a supercar that breaks the mould while creating a new technological package.”

Honda is working on a VTEC V6 engine of between 3.5 to 3.7 litres, while the twin electric motor set-up will be powered by lithium-ion batteries and employ a plug-in recharge system for a small electric-only range. The result will be huge amounts of torque, but also the high-revving character Hondas are famous for.

The car will also have a weight-saving aluminium body, and is set to go sale by 2014, priced at a Nissan GT-R-rivalling £65,000.

TSX69

Avengers Movie Acura Concept Points the Way Towards New NSX

Last month a mysterious Acura concept sporting a similar shape to the mid-engine Audi R8 supercar was spotted on the set of the upcoming The Avengers movie.

In the movie, the Acura concept will serve as the personal ride of Robert Downey Jr.’s character Tony Stark, a.k.a. Iron Man.

You may recall that Stark previously rode around in an Audi R8 but since he’s now working together with government agency S.H.I.E.L.D, which exclusively uses Acura vehicles, the Audi was no longer needed.

AutoExpress, which has snapped up some new images of the striking concept, is reporting that its design may point the way towards a new NSX flagship, although a new name is possible as well.

Previous plans for the new NSX called for a front mid-engine design with a V-10 heart, but those were canned once the financial crisis hit.

However, with Honda president and CEO Takanobu Ito rallying to bring back some performance cred for Acura and Honda, including commenting that plans for an exotic sports car were back on the table, this latest movie concept could very well herald a new NSX--but perhaps one very different to its predecessor.

You see, there’s word on the street that Acura will be looking to differentiate the car by packing it with an advanced hybrid drivetrain.

Acura is likely to go with a V-6 engine mounted in a lightweight aluminum chassis once again, but with the addition of 2 electric motors. In this way the engine could drive the rear wheels while the electric motors take care of the front.

Importantly, Acura’s new NSX isn’t likely to target stratospheric price levels like the Lexus LFA. Rather, it’s likely to occupy the $80,000 to $100,000 price bracket that more affordable supercars like the Nissan GT-R, Porsche 911 and higher trims of the Chevrolet Corvette now dominate.

Sadly, any release date is likely to still be years away.

TRIOD3SIGNS

TSX69

Acura NSX Successor Taking Shape
Ahead-of-Its-Time Honda Dualnote Concept Provides Powertrain Clues

At Honda's recent shareholders' meeting in Tokyo, a middle-aged man stood up during the Q&A session and asked whether the company was going to reinterpret a small, sporty car like the Beat for the 21st century. "While I am still young enough to enjoy sports driving, I'd like to drive something compact and sporty, something like an updated Beat. What are the chances of that?" he said poignantly.

Honda CEO Takanobu Ito took the microphone and replied without hesitation. "We are currently developing a successor to the Beat, a car that anyone can easily have fun with. Expect to see it in showrooms within the next few years." The comment dominated the headlines the next day. Strangely, Ito's subsequent utterance didn't get nearly as much play, but potentially was much more significant to those pining away for a road-going Honda supercar: "In addition to the Beat successor, we are also making significant progress with plans for an exotic sports car."

Just 6 months ago, Ito told a media gathering that Honda felt compelled to re-launch a high-performance sports car like the NSX, but he didn't go so far as to say it was definitely happening. But it was the 1st time Ito had actually uttered the telling phrase "making significant progress with plans to..." build a successor.

To get a clearer idea of exactly what Honda has planned, a source close to Honda suggested we go back a decade and re-examine the Dualnote, a gasoline-hybrid, all-wheel-drive concept car first shown way back at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show. Powered by a midship-mounted (Japanese-speak for mid-engined) 3.5-liter V-6 with Honda's IMA hybrid system, the 4-door concept's front wheels were propelled by in-wheel electric motors, while the rears were driven by the engine, a combination that reportedly generated more than 400 horsepower. The Dualnote was so advanced back then that all Honda did was adapt the drive system (minus the in-wheel electric motors) to the soon-to-be-launched Legend, thus creating the SH-AWD system.

10 years down the track, Honda is still perfecting that original AWD hardware, which includes the large-capacity engine with hybrid combination, motors that propel the fronts, and V-6-driven rears. Another insider tells us the car's target specifications have already been decided. "Honda wants to build a supercar that breaks the mold while creating a totally new technological package," he said. So what we are going to see is a further development of that 2001 concept, but adapted for today's fuel economy and emissions expectations.

It's not a car that rests on its engine-generated power alone. The extra herbs produced by the front-mounted electric motors will make the next-generation NSX a very quick car. "It has to be fast to live up to the expectations of a future NSX, right!?" pleads our insider. He went onto say that a record Nurburgring lap time is not Honda's target. "But be rest assured, this car will be the top in its class, and the powerful engine-motor combination will achieve that result."

Our sources inform us that Honda is working on a VTEC V-6 engine displacing 3.5 to 3.7 liters that boasts a cylinder head with an integrated exhaust manifold and valveless throttle. Obviously it will be of the Atkinson cycle variety. The 2-motor setup will be powered by lithium-ion batteries and employ a plug-in recharge system to minimize battery weight.

The original Dualnote system incorporated an engine that drove an on-board generator powering the motors, a system considered inherently inefficient. By fitting an all-new continuous current motor to the new concept, engineers have been able to minimize electricity consumption while at the same time creating a gutsy torque-generating, high-revving system. "This system will be the secret to the NSX successor's incredible pace," suggests our source.

1 other critical aspect of the new car will be its weight-saving aluminum body, a process carried over from the 1st NSX. And the final part of the package is price. Our sources tell us that Honda wants to bring the car to the U.S. as an Acura by 2014 for under $100,000 -- a sticker price designed to rival that of the Nissan GT-R.

KillerG

dont believe it till you see it folks.

and even then, like in the case of the hsv-10

dont believe it till its on sale in the united states and available for purchase

TSX69

New Honda NSX Confirmed

Honda's R&D chief Mibe Toshihiro has confirmed to Autocar that work is underway to produce a new sportscar in the mould of the iconic Honda NSX - and separate reports suggest it could be on sale as early as next year.

Responding to comments made by Honda president Takanobu Ito about the new NSX, Toshihiro said that Honda was ready to start work on the next generation of its electric and hybrid vehicles, and suggested that a new sportscar would be evaluated as part of that project.

"We are now at a point where we can consider the next generation of electric and hybrid vehicles," said Toshihiro while speaking at the Global Automotive Forum in Chengdu, China. "President Ito has already mentioned a new NSX, and we have looked at that in the R&D department. It would be an interesting project - electric or hybrid vehicles can be fun as well as economical. More than that I cannot say."

Ito previously suggested that the new NSX would be a different vehicle to the original NSX, which weighed 1350kg and had 290bhp.

Reports have suggested that a concept car hinting at the new Honda NSX could be shown at next month's Tokyo motor show, with a production car being shown early in 2012, ahead sales beginning later next year. However, timescales for the project are said to be flexible, as Japan continues to recover from disruption following the earthquake earlier this year.

Honda has also confirmed it will put its 1st full electric vehicle and a plug-in hybrid on sale in limited numbers in Japan, China and the US next year.

For the full story on the next Honda NSX, including Honda president Ito's thoughts on the car and its possible powertrain, buy Autocar magazine or download the digital edition, available today.

Nukem

I just don't think electric plug in cars are the answer to the future. great for going to work and back, but long road trips they are useless. I think Fisker atleast had a sports car that was electric but ran on solar power during the day. If the car wasn't running it used the solar power to recharge the batteries.

EL_PIC

Might be the wet dream for those who own tow truck services.

MASK

For sure

TSX69

Honda Redies Next NSX Concept

Honda has revealed that it is working on a new concept that hints at a range-topping sports coupe.

The Super Sports concept will follow the Small Sports EV Concept that will be unveiled at this week’s Tokyo motor show. The Super Sports design will be shown at the Detroit show in January and will form a halo model that suggests a spiritual successor to the NSX.

See our drawing of the new NSX plus a pic of the original car

The existence of 2 concepts reiterates recent comments from Honda chiefs that the company is working on a range of sports models. President of Honda Motor Europe, Manabu Nishimae, described how the company “knows that there are customers who want Honda sports cars, and we are developing and intending to deliver products for them”.

There are no official details regards the Super Sports’ engine transmission, but expect a high-performance hybrid or electric powertrain in keeping with the company's current push towards further electrification of its range. An all-wheel drive system is also possible.

Read our full road test of the original Honda NSX

The Small Sports EV Concept that will be seen at Tokyo is expected to reach showrooms by 2013.

TSX69

Honda NSX for Detroit

The 1st clues to Honda’s long-awaited NSX successor will be unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show. The Japanese company has confirmed that a hybrid concept known internally as the Super Sports will appear at the US event at the start of January.

A mysterious Acura concept was spotted last month on the set of the new Avengers movie in Central Park, New York, alongsive the film's star, Robert Downey Jr. Honda refused to comment on the pictures, but it's though that this mid-engined roadster could be the car in question.

Should the model make production, as is anticipated, it is likely to go on sale by 2013. Honda even took the bold move of showing a fleeting image of a sleek, silhouetted image of the model at a technical presentation to journalists at its Motegi Twin Ring facility.

R and D boss Yoshikazu Kigoshi said: “It will define the new face of Acura (Honda’s premium US brand).” But the car is set to go on sale worldwide, and it will wear the Honda badge in Europe and possibly even resurrect the revered NSX name.

An insider at the company admitted new boss Takanobu Ito had been stung into action after suggestions that a company once famed for its sporty cars and engineering expertise had lost its way in recent years. “This is the start of new direction for Honda,” he stressed. “We need a halo product.”

And chief operating officer of R and D Toshikiho Nonaka outlined the company’s agenda when he confirmed: “We are investigating a Super Sports car that pursues exhilarating fun.”

However, the new model will be in keeping with Honda’s Earth Dreams policy, which prioritises Fun, the Environment and Safety, and is likely to feature an electric motor as well as conventional power.

Other technology which could be used in the car is the firm’s new Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system.

This torque control system transfers energy from inside wheels to outside wheels while cornering to maximize stability. Auto Express briefly tested it at the firm’s test track and found it delivered an extremely sporty drive, even in something the size of an Accord.

Nonaka acknowledged SH-AWD would be ideal for a new flagship performance model when he said: “We do have an understanding that lightweight, speedy, sporty vehicles are needed for this system.” President of Honda Motor Europe Manabu Nishimae added: “We know there are customers who want Honda sports cars and we are developing and intending to deliver products for them.”

TSX69

New Acura NSX Will be Hybrid; Look Like Tony Stark's Car from "Avengers"

According to an Acura dealer national meeting attendee's furtive report from the Aria hotel in Las Vegas, the new Acura NSX that'll reportedly be shown at next month's Detroit Auto Show will look extremely similar to Tony Stark's car in the upcoming Avengers movie. But wait, there's more.

It'll also be, according to our tipster, a "hybrid" — yes, you read that correctly — and "will hit dealer showrooms in 24 months." Also, it'll be AWD.

Now we want to see just how close it'll look to the Avengers car because, if you'll remember, Acura spokespeople told Autoblog that that car was nothing more than a one-off built for the movie. Likely true. But imagine that vehicle as a hard-top and we think that's likely what our tipster saw.

All we know is we're getting more and more excited for the Avengers movie. Oh, yeah, and also the NSX — although we're not so sure how that "hybrid" thing is gonna work out.

If any other national dealer meeting attendees want to chime in on this report, please email me — or comment below. And we'll even open up our pocketbooks — say, to the tune of $1000 — to the first person who gets us uncovered pictures from the meeting.

EL_PIC

Avengers movie to sell new NSX or new NSX to sell movie ...
Either way - That's new Marketing for Honda Acura !!
Sound off and report if you plan on attending Detroit Auto Show
...

Steven Bell

iTrader: (2)

I'm glad an Acura supercar is coming back. I just wish they would give it a little of the original NSX look-keep the tradition....

EL_PIC

Not only look but also feel.

I will look forward to seeing and driving new NSX but
w/o mid engine and all rear drive ... it will not drive feel same.

With the remakes intentions of AWD Hybrid - {electric rear}
and front engine in a whole new skin its really a whole new car
and you cant go home again just cause you call it the same.

Ken1997TL

Maybe it will be a mid engine car with gasoline power to the rear wheels.

The neat thing about the new hybrid setup is it allows some flexibility.

MASK

Very True.
Look how the 5 generations of Ford Mustang have changed and even with same drive ... they drive different.
A woman knows feel and where the trust and torque cums from.
I have had 2 Mustangs over the years and have a classic NSX along w my current MDX.
Classic is Classic and this new NSX will be different.

Meeyatch1

I am beyond excited to see (and eventually drive) the new NSX. Being on my third NSX, and having had an NSX in my life for the past 18 years now (wow...it really has been a long time), the prospect of being able to see Honda / Acura turn the world on edge again with a wonderful new sports car, and return to the front of the line for innovative and FUN new cars, is like a dream. I just want this dream to come true.

OperationDarkie

iTrader: (1)

From what I saw on thetruthaboutcars.com they said it will be mid engine with the hybrid setup running the front wheels. But i can only take that with a grain of salt, make it or don't talk about it :P

i1o101i

iTrader: (1)

Honda needs to make up their mind on the next nsx

Meeyatch1

I will be in Detroit for the Press Day unveiling tomorrow....so stay tuned for updates!!

weather

Must say that I can't wait to see what Acura has in store for us....looks like 2012 will be an exciting year with the RDX, the ILX, the NSX concept followed later in the year with the TL which will put some rest to the rumors on whether the TL or the TSX will get axed at the end of their life cycle.

I am leasing a 2012 TL-SH-AWD at the moment and love the car.....I am on my 3rd Acura in a row and not planning on leaving the company soon. If the NSX comes out to be in the 125K price range, I may just bite the bullet. If not, if the rumors about the RL are true, then the RL may be my TL replacement in 2014....Exciting times up ahead and like you said, alot of it will begin to take shape tomorrow in Detroit.

Meeyatch1

I had dinner with some American Honda / Acura people tonight and they were pretty excited for tomorrow. So I expect it to be awesome.

weather

They had every reason to be pretty excited!! Its been a while since Acura has gotten me this excited. The ILX is very pleasing on the eyes and well executed in my opinion, the RDX is very nice and an improvement but depending on the photos you see, and well, the NSX OMG that thing is just stunning!!

So now, lets wait to see what the RL will bring and we now know the TSX will get the squeeze out eventually, so how will the TL get shrunken to allow the RL (or legend) to shine and take the spotlight as the brand elite car.

Hold on tight guys, she is gonna be a good year