Honda NZ is taking orders for its second-generation NSX, a petrol-electric, all-wheel-drive supercar shown publicly for the first time at the Detroit show.
The new car (above) wore the badge of Honda’s up-market US arm Acura but will be sold in NZ as the Honda NSX, the same moniker as the 1994 original.
Honda NZ managing director Nobuya Sonada confirmed he would have the NSX available from next year. “The NSX is a part of Honda’s DNA and we are proud to bring this icon to New Zealand,” Sonada said.
“The release of the NSX is perfectly timed with Honda’s return to motorsport and it celebrates our international direction as a company.”
The production model runs a twin-turbo hybrid drivetrain generating around 410kW. Power will go to all four wheels via three electric motors and a mid-mounted V6 petrol engine. There is a launch mode for lightning-fast standing starts.
Every element of the NSX’s exterior design has been sculpted for high-speed stability. It has undergone extensive wind tunnel testing at Honda’s development centre in Ohio, leading to modifications to the bonnet vents, side air intakes and boot spoiler.
The design has been optimised to concentrate the weight low and towards the middle of the car, and Honda claims it has the lowest centre of gravity in its class.
Mike Accavitti, senior vice president of Acura, told reporters at Detroit: “The NSX delivers pinnacle supercar performance, with zero-delay acceleration and confidence-inspiring driving dynamics.”
It also gets a fully independent all-aluminium front and rear suspension set-up, as well as carbon ceramic brakes and 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloys. Price in the US is expected to be around $US150,000 ($NZ195,000).
