Honda NSX Is Back (Again)
Super-coupe could return, this time with 4wd, a hybrid and - er - Accord underpinnings
The much anticipated and delayed (and often cancelled) Honda NSX looks like it could be on the road to reality once again, according to reports from the US. Only this time it will be a hybrid, and most likely based on a Honda Accord platform.
The last time Honda seriously attempted a replacement for its sporting range-topper, a global economic downturn and rising environmental concerns got in the way, and the front-engined V10 coupe only managed to see the light of day after being turned into the HSV-GT Super GT racer (pictured).
This time the NSX successor will be a four-wheel-drive V6 hybrid but, like the Honda CR-Z, will have the option of a manual transmission. Reports suggest that an output of around 400bhp is Honda's target for the car.
US blog Motor Trend (which first broke the story) says that a source in Japan has spotted a patent application for a "V6 powertrain developing upwards of 400 horsepower".
It's a good sign that Honda is keen to have a proper sporting flagship - and that it doesn't consider the CR-Z to be that car (thank goodness). "Honda does not see the CR-Z as a sports car," a company insider tells Motor Trend. "It's a sporty coupe and a great first try in the hybrid-sports direction. To be called a sports car, a car needs to have the potential of an NSX or an S2000. That's what we need to aim for."
Although Honda would have to significantly modify the front-wheel drive Accord chassis were it to use it, this would still be a significantly cheaper option than developing a bespoke platform form scratch.
If it gets the thumbs-up from Honda's Big Cheeses, expect the 'new NSX' to hit showrooms as early as 2014.
Why not just use the race car in the pics?


3.5 litre V5 ravving to 9000 rpm giving ~420bhp
Add ESP
Remove spare wheel and increase legroom
Add seat height adjustment
Add modern brakes (but don't make wheels too big)
The LF-A in my head is the new NSX, just with the engine in the wrong place. Technically amazing in every other way.
Sports cars from mainstream manufacturers arent going to be anything like of old; legislation dictates this. What we should be excited about however, is the fact that Honda, the same company who gave us the NSX and DC2 type r, are willing to develop a modern version of these. We know Honda have the passion to unlock some seriously good cars, and, with the aforementioned expertise in hybrid technology, we shouldnt write off their chances of producing a belting reincarnation of the NSX
The LF-A in my head is the new NSX, just with the engine in the wrong place. Technically amazing in every other way.
In my view Honda need a 6 cylinder 3.0 litre with about 360bhp and a 4 cylinder 2.0 litre with about 240bhp. Whether they achieve this through VTEC or go down a light-weight hybrid route doesn't matter. These engine should form the basis of an NSX and S2000 replacement where they aim to cut 15% from the weight or the originals whilst increasing fuel efficiency.
A modern S2000 that weighs less than 1100KG and does 40mpg daily or a 1200KG NSX that does 35mpg would be great.
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