New Honda NSX Concept debuts at Detroit 2012

The new Honda NSX Concept

Honda has revealed the Honda NSX Concept (Acura NSX Concept for the US) in Detroit this evening, a lightweight, hybrid, mid-engined supercar.

A replacement for the Honda NSX (or Acura NSX for the US) has been on and off for years. But we knew the new NSX Concept was coming to Detroit and we thought it would have a passing resemblance to the Tony Stark car in the New Avengers. And it does.

Honda aren’t saying that the NSX Concept is the final deal for a production NSX – that’s thought to be as much as three years away – put it’s a clear display of intent both in terms of design and conception. That means a light weight mid-engined design with a naturally aspirated V6, but with Honda’s Sport Hybrid SH-AWD hybrid with three electric motors.

The VTEC V6 gets direct injection and drives through a dual-clutch ‘box with a built-in electric motor. There are another two electric motors running the front wheels which are used to provide handling enhancements rather than outright power. And talking of power, Honda are being non-committal on that front, although its expected the new NSX will be able to muster around 400bhp.

Takanobu Ito, Honda boss, said:

Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency. 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.

In other words, the new NSX will provide power and performance but within acceptable boundaries of efficiency and economy.

But at least we’re going to get a new Honda NSX. Even if it’s going to take another three years before it hits the road.