Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Honda finds loophole, new NSX to run in SuperGT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-honda-nsx-running-in-supergt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-honda-nsx-running-in-supergt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-honda-nsx-running-in-supergt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Honda NSX Prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

We knew it was coming and now we've got details. According to the latest reports out of Japan, the Honda NSX will live on, but mere mortals will never get a shot behind the wheel.

As previously reported, Honda has been actively petitioning the Japanese Automobile Federation (JAF) -- the organizing entity behind Japan's Super GT series -- to run a new front-engine racer in the touring car championship. A cursory reading of the rule book states that vehicles campaigning in SuperGT must be production vehicles (think GT-R, MR2, SC430). However, Honda's found a loop-hole.

Just as Toyota has done in recent years with the Supra (it's out of production), the Super GT rules specify that a vehicle's specs and design must be submitted to JAF to be approved. That means that a vehicle can be "production ready," if not actually in production. So for the 2010 SuperGT season, Honda will bring out an all-new race car based on the NSX prototype (seen above), reportedly packing a 3.4-liter V8.

So... Lawyers: 1. NSX's lovers: 0. But at least we get to see it race...


Gallery: Spy Shots: Acura NSX


[Source: Insideline]

REPORT: Honda finds loophole, new NSX to run in SuperGT originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 18:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AcuraAcura NSXAcuraNsxhondahonda nsxhonda nsx supergthonda super gtHondaNsxHondaNsxSupergtHondaSuperGtnsxnsx supergtNsxSupergtsuper gtsupergirlSuperGtFri, 11 Dec 2009 18:56:00 EST<![CDATA[New SuperGT contender from Honda in the works?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/new-supergt-contender-from-honda-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/new-supergt-contender-from-honda-in-the-works/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/new-supergt-contender-from-honda-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Honda NSX Mule - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we sat down with a few Honda execs at SEMA, we were told to "watch out for something big" from the automaker's motorsports efforts in Japan early next year. It didn't take much to deduce what they were hinting at: Honda plans to fill the vacuum left by the recently departed NSX-R in SuperGT with an all-new vehicle for the 2010 season.

As you'd expect, the Japanese media has hopped all over the recent rumors, with BestCar putting out a rendering of the fabled GT500 class contender. Unfortunately, beyond a possible V10 powerplant, details on the vehicle are scarce and the demise of the production version leaves more questions than answers. According to 7Tune, Honda is campaigning SuperGT organizers to give the automaker a pass on its homologation requirements, allowing the front-engined coupe to enter the series without a road-going version available to the public. Considering SuperGT's stringent requirements, we're not sure how that's going to play out, and since we haven't seen development mules testing since June of last year, we're all the more skeptical about Honda's triumphant return to the GT500 ranks. We're hoping to know more before the end of the year, so stay tuned.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Acura NSX


[Source: BestCar via 7Tune]

New SuperGT contender from Honda in the works? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuragt500hondahonda nsxhonda supergthonda supergt gt500HondaNsxHondaSupergtHondaSupergtGt500nsxsupergtMon, 16 Nov 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda Racing finally puts NSX out to pasture as SuperGT tweaks regs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/honda-racing-finally-puts-nsx-out-to-pasture-as-supergt-tweaks-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/honda-racing-finally-puts-nsx-out-to-pasture-as-supergt-tweaks-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/26/honda-racing-finally-puts-nsx-out-to-pasture-as-supergt-tweaks-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Honda/Acura NSX has had a good run. The mid-engine supercar developed with input from the legendary Ayrton Senna first hit the market in 1990 and didn't cease production until 2005, giving it one of the longest production runs in the business. But even after Honda stopped selling the NSX, it was still being campaigned in Japan's SuperGT racing series. No more, says Honda, as the 2010 regulations switch exclusively to the use of front-engine, rear-drive chassis, forcing the NSX into retirement after nearly two decades of duty.

Based on the roadgoing supercar, the SuperGT-spec NSX-GT featured a heavily modified chassis that swapped the stock transverse V6 for a 500-horsepower competition-spec engine tuned by Mugen and mounted longitudinally. The car's been driven to three drivers' titles and three teams' championships in the Japanese touring car series.

No word yet on what, if anything, will succeed the NSX - or the Toyota MR-S for that matter - but Japanese automakers dropping out of motorsports like so many flies, we won't be holding our breath.

[Source: Honda via Jon Sibal]

Honda Racing finally puts NSX out to pasture as SuperGT tweaks regs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acura nsxacura nsx-gtAcuraNsxAcuraNsx-gthonda nsxhonda nsx-gtHondaNsxHondaNsx-gtnsxnsx-gtsuper gtSuperGtMon, 26 Oct 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Grassroots Motorsports'</i> Tim Suddard picks ten future Japanese collector cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tim-suddard-picks-ten-future-japanese-collecter-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tim-suddard-picks-ten-future-japanese-collecter-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/tim-suddard-picks-ten-future-japanese-collecter-cars/#commentsFiled under: ,

First generation Mazda Miata - Click above to see entire list of future Japanese Collector Cars

"Everybody wants to go to the dance, no one wants to stay and clean up." So says Robert De Niro's Sam in John Frankenheimer's spy thriller/car porno Ronin. We mention the line, because it's not only well written, but nicely sums up most people's attitudes towards classic, collector cars. Yes, we'd all love a Boss 302 Mustang or a Maserati Bora, but no one wants to pay the tens of thousands of dollars it takes to procure and maintain them. But what if in the future collector cars weren't limited to American muscle or exotic Europeans? What if relatively cheap and reliable Japanese cars came to be collectors items?

Regardless of the answer, that's the exact future that Tim Suddard, publisher of both Grassroots Motorsports and Classic Motorsports, is predicting. In fact, here's what he has to say about it:
Right now Japanese cars are generally overlooked by the collector car world, but we expect that to change. A generation that grew up on Hondas, Datsuns and Mazdas is coming of age where they're after the icons of their youth. Where previous enthusiasts paid big money for the Mopars, Chevelles and GTOs that they couldn't afford when teens, we expect the same happen soon with milestone Japanese cars.
Which, if what Suddard is saying is true, means that both demand and price should increase. Which is probably... bad. Click here to see the ten cars (with captions) that Suddard claims are going to be future classics, plus our own two cents on each selection. And of course, what do you think? Also - like what you see? If you're in the Southern California area, don't miss the 2009 Japanese Classics car show this weekend


Gallery: Tim Suddard's ten most collectable Japanese cars

1997-2001 Acura Integra Type R1990-2005 Acura NSX1970-1973 Datsun 240Z1967-1973 Datsun 5101985-1991 Honda CRX Si

Grassroots Motorsports' Tim Suddard picks ten future Japanese collector cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>240Z510AcuraAcura IntegraAcura Integra Type RAcura NSXAcuraIntegraAcuraIntegraTypeRAcuraNsxAE86CollectorCollector CarsCollectorCarsCRX SiCrxSiDastun 240ZDastun240zDatsunDatsun 510Datsun510HondaHonda CRXHonda CRX SiHonda S600HondaCrxHondaCrxSiHondaS600IntegraIntegra Type RIntegraTypeRJapanJapaneseMazda MiataMazda RX-3Mazda RX-7MazdaMiataMazdaRx-3MazdaRx-7MiataNSXRX-3RX-7Tim SuddardTimSuddardToyotaToyota CorollaToyota Corolla GT-SToyotaCorollaToyotaCorollaGt-sWed, 30 Sep 2009 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Acura NSX replacement will move downmarket in price, performance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/13/report-acura-nsx-replacement-will-move-downmarket/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/13/report-acura-nsx-replacement-will-move-downmarket/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/13/report-acura-nsx-replacement-will-move-downmarket/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Acura Advanced Sports Car concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Late last year, Honda confirmed that it had halted development on the Acura NSX project as we had come to know it. While we're still mourning the loss of the promised front-mounted 560-horsepower V10 powerplant and torque-vectoring AWD setup, the boys at Car and Driver are reporting that the NSX may yet appear in some other form entirely.

Quoting John Watts, Acura's senior manager of product development, C&D says the NSX revival may still be in the works, just on a somewhat lower performance plateau. Says Watts, "For it to be fully effective [as a halo vehicle for the brand], it couldn't be too far removed" from Acura's other products.

As the original Acura NSX proved, Honda is capable of amazing things when it comes to performance-minded automobiles. As cool as another technological Tour de Force would be, the idea of a mid-level sportscar from Acura is certainly an intriguing prospect in its own right and would be something much more affordable for the average working stiff.


Gallery: Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept


[Source: Car and Driver]

REPORT: Acura NSX replacement will move downmarket in price, performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Aug 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxacura sports carAcuraNsxAcuraSportsCarhonda nsxHondaNsxnsxThu, 13 Aug 2009 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Honda NSX could be dubbed "Super Hybrid Sports"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/next-honda-nsx-could-be-dubbed-super-hybrid-sports/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/next-honda-nsx-could-be-dubbed-super-hybrid-sports/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/next-honda-nsx-could-be-dubbed-super-hybrid-sports/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Even though it's been going on for more than two years now, the tale of the Acura NSX is like a news story that just broke: you have to keep checking back for details, and each subsequent update could turn the whole story on its head. The V10 NSX that was going to own the sports car gods on Mt. Olympus was killed, and a rumored newly resurrected NSX is said to be a V6 hybrid that will challenge Toyota's own will-they/won't-they FT-HS/Supra.

Whereas Toyota's entry is reported to put out 400 horsepower to the rear wheels, the NSX will reportedly get about 450 horses going to all four wheels via Acura's SH-AWD system. Dubbed the "Super Hybrid Sports," sources claim it will be built on the same steel platform as the next generation Acura RL.

While this speculation sounds like an interesting car - at least, until the next update comes along - it is a redefinition of what NSX means to us and could take a while to get used to. And if Acura is truly intent on becoming a top shelf luxury maker, we can't help but find it a bit quizzical that they're taking their flagship sports car brand downmarket to compete with a Toyota Supra.

[Source: 7Tune]

Next Honda NSX could be dubbed "Super Hybrid Sports" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxAcuraNsxalternativecoupegas-electrichondahybridnsxsportstoyotatoyota ft-hstoyota supraToyotaFt-hsToyotaSupraundefinedTue, 21 Jul 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Acura continues to push for Tier-1 status, NSX could be revived]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/02/acura-continues-to-push-for-tier-1-status-nsx-could-be-revived/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/02/acura-continues-to-push-for-tier-1-status-nsx-could-be-revived/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/02/acura-continues-to-push-for-tier-1-status-nsx-could-be-revived/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Acura TL

Acura wants to assure dealers that its plan to become a Tier 1 luxury brand - able to hang with Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus - is still underway. But according to Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., the key to playing with the big boys isn't limited to what's on showroom floors. Colliver told Automotive News, "Being a premium luxury brand is not just about product. It's the way dealers handle customers. You've got to earn your way into the segment. You don't necessarily have to have a $90,000 sedan to get there."

Even though that formula seems to have worked for Lexus, Acura has different plans. The recently released TSX, RL and TL have set the tone for the next few years, and another crossover, designed to slot in between the RDX and MDX, is currently under development.

Colliver also mentioned that work on the NSX replacement is "mostly done," so even though Honda shelved the V10 supercar to cut costs and keep an even keel during the economic downturn, the NSX could be pulled out of the corporate garage, dusted off and brought to market once conditions improve.

Acura's entry-level image could help the automaker weather the economic downturn better than its rivals from Germany and Japan, but when the market firms up, Acura will need products (with high-output engines and RWD) at the ready to compete with the stalwarts of the luxury set.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Acura NSX


Gallery: 2009 Acura RL


Gallery: 2009 Acura TL


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Acura continues to push for Tier-1 status, NSX could be revived originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxAcuraNsxnsxMon, 02 Feb 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 Tokyo Auto Salon: Mugen NSX RR]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/2009-tokyo-auto-salon-mugen-nsx-rr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/2009-tokyo-auto-salon-mugen-nsx-rr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/2009-tokyo-auto-salon-mugen-nsx-rr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Mugen NSX RR

With the NSX successor officially cancelled, Honda tapped long-time motorsports partner Mugen to create a one-off coupe to commemorate the everyday supercar that ended production in 2005. The Mugen NSX RR is stretched to 177.95 inches (almost four inches more than the '94-05 model), and widened by 5.5 inches and features a combination of carbon fiber and aluminum body panels. A set of upgrade brakes and GT-style body kit, join a new rear wing, hood-scoop and diffusers, while the stock 3.0-liter V6 remains and is mated to a revised six-speed manual gearbox. Mugen hasn't released any power figures, but informed speculation pegs output between 350 and 380 hp.

While it's highly-doubtful that Honda or Mugen will sell the NSX RR in the States, there's a good chance that the tuning firm will acquire some low-mileage NSX-Rs in Japan to produce a limited run of the RR, similar to the NISMO R34 GT-R Z-Tune Nissan produced at the end of the Skyline's production run.

UPDATED with live images.

Gallery: TAS 2009: Mugen NSX RR

2009 Tokyo Auto Salon: Mugen NSX RR originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 tokyo auto salon2009TokyoAutoSalonacurahondamugen nsx rrMugenNsxRrnsxtastokyo auto salonTokyoAutoSalonTue, 13 Jan 2009 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Undead: Will Acura show NSX in Detroit even after killing it off?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/will-acura-show-the-nsx-in-detroit-even-after-killing-the-progra/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/will-acura-show-the-nsx-in-detroit-even-after-killing-the-progra/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/will-acura-show-the-nsx-in-detroit-even-after-killing-the-progra/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Just two weeks after we learned that Honda had suspended plans to introduce a new V10 NSX sports car in 2010 comes word that we may see the car anyway. Sort of. The production program is still dead, but it is being reported that the previously scheduled "concept" will appear at Detroit's North American International Auto Show in a couple of weeks.

In typical Honda fashion, a concept version of a new model appears a few months for the street edition. In this case, the NSX was set to debut next fall at the Tokyo Motor Show with the conceptual preview at the Detroit auto show. Since the concept was already prepared before Honda made the decision to scrap the program, they will show it anyway. Honda's presence in Cobo will still be low-key however, with its press conference having been canceled. The NSX and the production Insight will simply appear on the show floor.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Acura NSX

[Source: AutoTeleGraaf.nl]

Undead: Will Acura show NSX in Detroit even after killing it off? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxAcuraNsxdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowhonda nsxHondaNsxmid-enginemid-enginedNAIASNSXrwdWed, 31 Dec 2008 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Banzai burned? Honda <span style="text-decoration: line-through;"> reportedly kills</span> confirms NSX is DOA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/banzai-burned-honda-reportedly-kills-nsx/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/banzai-burned-honda-reportedly-kills-nsx/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/banzai-burned-honda-reportedly-kills-nsx/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for hi-res gallery of the Acura Advanced Sports Car concept

Amidst a troubled global economy, Honda is actively scaling back its operations, and its performance programs are sadly bearing the brunt. After canceling its participation in Formula One and the AMA motorbike road racing series, the Japanese automaker has reportedly announced that it is nixing development of the next-generation NSX supercar.

The unfortunate news will undoubtedly come as a stunning disappointment for the loyal legions of Honda/Acura sportscar fans. The new NSX, which looked to be nearing the end of its development on the road to production, was slated to be the most powerful car ever made by Honda, driven by an anticipated 560-horsepower V10.

According to Autocar, the goal-line audible came from none other than Takeo Fukui, Honda's CEO, who dropped the bombshell as part of a end-of-year speech to the troops. The news also means that Honda is suspending plans to finally bring the Acura nameplate to Japan, and it also calls into doubt the fate of the V10 engine itself, as well as any long-rumored V8 powertrains.

Honda hasn't ruled out the possibility of picking up where it left off once business is back in order, but in the meantime the original NSX, which ceased production in 2005 after fifteen years on the market, will have to remain without an heir.

Update: Acura spokesman Mike Spencer has confirmed to Autoblog that the NSX has indeed been canceled. We'll now never know how good it might have been.

Gallery: Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept


Gallery: Spy Shots: Acura NSX


[Source: Autocar]

Continue reading Banzai burned? Honda reportedly kills confirms NSX is DOA

Banzai burned? Honda reportedly kills confirms NSX is DOA originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxacura nsx canceledAcuraNsxAcuraNsxCanceledhondahonda cancels nsxhonda nsxHondaCancelsNsxHondaNsxnsxWed, 17 Dec 2008 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Under the skin of the 2010 Acura NSX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/19/under-the-skin-of-the-2010-acura-nsx/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/19/under-the-skin-of-the-2010-acura-nsx/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/19/under-the-skin-of-the-2010-acura-nsx/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

We don't know what the next Acura (Honda) NSX will ultimately look like, but we do know that it will have a 5.5-liter V10 throwing down 560 hp through a torque-vectoring SW-AWD setup. The folks over at Auto Express have a cutaway view of the NSX's gizzards, and what lurks beneath the creased and chevroned skin of the next do-it-all-faster supercar could be good for a few extra heartbeats. We do hope, however, that these exterior renderings are quite a ways off. Otherwise, it might not be so bad if Acura offers a cutaway version of the actual car so that you don't have to see its body, because even under the camo, the new NSX is shaping up to be um, homely.

[Source: Auto Express]

Under the skin of the 2010 Acura NSX originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxAcuraNsxcoupescutawayhondahonda nsxHondaNsxnsxsports carsSportsCarssupercarstokyo motor show 2009TokyoMotorShow2009Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Honda NSX interior caught at the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/16/spy-shots-honda-nsx-interior-caught-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/16/spy-shots-honda-nsx-interior-caught-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/16/spy-shots-honda-nsx-interior-caught-at-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We've seen plenty of shots of the Honda/Acura NSX hangin' 'round the 'Ring, but unlike previous photos, the crew at Cartribe was able to catch a brief glimpse of the cloaked mule's interior. A clearer view of the gauges reveals a clean chronograph-like arrangement, with large numerals framed by chrome rings. Although the rest of the dash is covered by camera-proof camo, the three-spoke, flat-bottom steering wheel and integrated switchgear certainly speaks to the V10-powered super coupe's intentions. We're hoping to see the next NSX debut during the upcoming show season, reportedly packing over 500 hp and sending power to all four wheels.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Acura NSX


[Source: Cartribe via Carscoop]

Spy Shots: Honda NSX interior caught at the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acura nsxAcuraNsxhondahonda nsxHondaNsxnsxWed, 16 Jul 2008 17:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Acura NSX, RL to get V10 with cylinder deactivation?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/15/rumormill-honda-nsx-and-acura-rl-to-get-v10-with-cylinder-deact/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/15/rumormill-honda-nsx-and-acura-rl-to-get-v10-with-cylinder-deact/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/15/rumormill-honda-nsx-and-acura-rl-to-get-v10-with-cylinder-deact/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Not only is team Corvette taking shots at the Nissan GT-R, besting its 'Ring time in the process, so is Acura with its well-publicized NSX replacement. Though we've seen more spy shots, renderings and videos than you can shake a stick at, there are a few more renderings over at 7Tune if you are so inclined. What's more interesting, though, is news that the 5.5L V10 engine expected under the hood of the supercar will include relatively aggressive cylinder deactivation technology. The V10 will reportedly be able to cut its cylinder count in half by running as a 2.75L inline five-cylinder when its full capacity isn't needed. We would imagine that would be quite often, as the car's expected power output of six-hundred horses attests.

In what seems like a highly unlikely possibility, some sources are also reporting that a version of the V10 engine from the NSX could see duty in a future Acura RL sedan. Considering that the RL has never featured anything more than six cylinders underhood, this would be an extremely radical departure for Acura. In other words, don't hold your breath.

[Source: 7Tune]

Rumormill: Acura NSX, RL to get V10 with cylinder deactivation? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 acura nsx2010AcuraNsxacura nsxacura nsx lap timeacura nsx nurburgrin...acura nsx nurburgringacura nsx prototypeacura nsx ringacura rlacura v10AcuraNsxAcuraNsxLapTimeAcuraNsxNurburgrin...AcuraNsxNurburgringAcuraNsxPrototypeAcuraNsxRingAcuraRlAcuraV10nsxnsx replacementnsx spy shotsNsxReplacementNsxSpyShotsTue, 15 Jul 2008 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Honda NSX without zebra camouflage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/28/rendered-speculation-honda-nsx-without-zebra-camouflage/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/28/rendered-speculation-honda-nsx-without-zebra-camouflage/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/28/rendered-speculation-honda-nsx-without-zebra-camouflage/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

AutoExpress is just as interested in the styling of the next NSX as the rest of us are, so they pressed a digital artist into action to 'chop the shots of the car running on the Nurburgring. What they've come away with isn't nearly as bad as we thought it might be on our last podcast. It still looks like a hotted-up Accord Coupe in some ways, though the lines and proportions are rather classic, and the anti-flamboyance creates a car that wouldn't look ridiculous next to an F430, except for the quad stacked exhaust tips. Of course, all the renderings really do is muddy the waters until we see the actual car, but at least if these images ring true, the NSX won't suck. It won't stand out, either, but who ever bought an Acura to stand out?

[Source: Auto Express, Photo: Larson]

Rendered Speculation: Honda NSX without zebra camouflage originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Jun 2008 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxAcuraNsxnsxnsx renderingnsx replacementnsx spy shotsNsxRenderingnsxreplacementnsxspyshotsSat, 28 Jun 2008 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[NSX mule dimensions figured with PhotoShop]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/21/nsx-mule-dimensions-figured-with-photoshop/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/21/nsx-mule-dimensions-figured-with-photoshop/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/21/nsx-mule-dimensions-figured-with-photoshop/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Who needs Blade Runner technology to get the details in a photo when you've got Photoshop? The folks over at Temple of VTEC have gleaned the dimensions of the Acura NSX mule by starting with the widths of a German license plate and the Honda S2000 door. The mule appears to be shorter, but taller and wider than the previous NSX, with a longer wheelbase. VTEC also has a chart comparing the estimated dimensions with those of the Nissan GT-R, Porsche GT2, and Corvette Z06. While the exact measurements could be slightly off, they should fit together in relation to each other. We expect that in design and dimension the mule's bodywork has little to do with the final NSX -- but we probably have a year and change before we find out... Thanks for the tip, Eugene!

[Source: Temple of VTEC]

NSX mule dimensions figured with PhotoShop originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Jun 2008 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxacura nsx nurburgringacura nsx prototypeacura nsx ringAcuraNsxAcuraNsxNurburgringAcuraNsxPrototypeAcuraNsxRinghondahonda nsxHondaNsxnsxnsx replacementnsxreplacementSat, 21 Jun 2008 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda CEO demands NSX be faster around 'Ring than GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/18/honda-ceo-demands-nsx-be-faster-around-ring-than-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/18/honda-ceo-demands-nsx-be-faster-around-ring-than-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/18/honda-ceo-demands-nsx-be-faster-around-ring-than-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



By now we've all seen the spy shots showing Acura's NSX revival bombing around the Nürburgring in Germany. There's a reason those drivers are pushing their prototype hard enough to get air through the turns. Inside Line is reporting the Honda CEO Takeo Fukui wants his NSX to toast both the Nissan GT-R and the Lexus LF-A around the Green Hell. Considering that the GT-R has posted lap times on the 'Ring that utterly defy what it should be able to do on paper, and that the LF-A is still a moving target that's trying to best the GT-R too, Honda engineers have some serious work to do developing the NSX over the next two years. IL suspects the next NSX will get a 5.5L V10 producing 550 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque that's derived from a V8 that's slated for the next-gen, rear-wheel-drive Acura RL. They also surmise that it will use an 8-speed auto with paddle shifters, feature an advanced version of Honda's Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system and use lots of aluminum in its construction to keep weight down. Unfortunately, by the time the NSX arrives, the GT-R V-Spec will have moved the bar again.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Acura NSX


[Source: Inside Line]

Honda CEO demands NSX be faster around 'Ring than GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acura nsxAcuraNsxgt-rlexus lf-aLexusLf-alf-anissan gt-rNissanGt-rnsxnsx nurburgringNsxNurburgringnurburgringringtakeo fukuiTakeoFukuiWed, 18 Jun 2008 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Acura NSX prototype lifts wheel at the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/17/spy-shots-acura-nsx-prototype-lifts-wheel-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/17/spy-shots-acura-nsx-prototype-lifts-wheel-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/17/spy-shots-acura-nsx-prototype-lifts-wheel-at-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click above to high-res gallery of Acura NSX spy shots

The spy shots we showed you earlier of an Acura NSX prototype on the street were taken in Germany near the famed Nurburgring test track. Of course, any prototype driving around the 'Ring will eventually be driving on the 'Ring, and so it was today for Acura's future supercar. KGP photographers snapped the NSX prototype being driven hard around the Green Hell, so much so that the car's left-front wheel catches air at one point during hard cornering. There are many more angles and views of the next NSX in our gallery below that should allow you to see the car's form through its heavy camo paint even better.

[Source: KGP Photography]

Continue reading Spy Shots: Acura NSX prototype lifts wheel at the 'Ring

Spy Shots: Acura NSX prototype lifts wheel at the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 acura nsx2010AcuraNsxacura nsxAcuraNsxbreakingnsxnsx spy shotsNsxSpyShotsspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsTue, 17 Jun 2008 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Acura NSX hits the streets]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/17/spy-shots-acura-nsx-hits-the-streets/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/17/spy-shots-acura-nsx-hits-the-streets/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/17/spy-shots-acura-nsx-hits-the-streets/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of new Acura NSX spy shots

The spies at KGP Photography have captured the first shots of the next Acura NSX in its prototype form. Gone is the makeshift S2000 bodywork the car has been photographed in before, replaced by what appears to be its true form: a classic, long-hooded sports car profile that is significantly more muscular and aggressive-looking than the Advanced Sports Car Concept. The camo effectively hides most of the juicy details, particularly up front,. Still, you can make out the three well-defined intake openings there, as well as headlamps that are larger than the slitlike units shown on last year's concept car. In back, stacked square dual exhausts suggest plenty of underhood muscle, which makes sense since a V10 is expected to be nestled under the car's lengthy bonnet. The mule depicted above also suggests a BMW 6-series-like decklid aft of the rear glass, though there's no way of knowing if it incorporates taillamps that run the width of the rear, as we saw on the concept. No matter. It all adds up to something we want to see a lot more of, and soon.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Acura NSX


Gallery: Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept


[Source: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Acura NSX hits the streets originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura nsxAcuraNsxbreakingkgpnext nsxNextNsxnsxTue, 17 Jun 2008 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Spoiler Alert: Super GT Rd. 3 Results]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/05/spoiler-alert-super-gt-rd-3-results/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/05/spoiler-alert-super-gt-rd-3-results/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/05/spoiler-alert-super-gt-rd-3-results/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click above for a huge, high-res gallery of Rd. 3 of the '08 SuperGT season.

After previous incarnations of the Nissan GT-R ran away with successive JGTC titles, Japan's GT Association decided to inflict "success ballast" on race winners in an attempt to level the playing field (i.e give Toyota and Honda a chance).

As the current GT-R race car is built to 2009 Super GT specifications, the GT-A handed it a weight penalty of 50kgs added right from the start of the season. After winning Round 1 in Suzuka car number 23 had to carry an additional 50kgs at Round 2 in Sugo, which it promptly won anyway. Then thanks to also setting numerous fastest laps and other speeding offenses it was deemed that Benoit Treluyer and Satoshi Motoyama's ride would have to port an massive 200ks (440lbs) of ballast at this weekend's race at Fuji Speedway.

That presents a couple of problems. Firstly, where the heck do you safely stow 200kgs of lead? And would the car meet GT-A regulations even if Nissan found a way to do it? The ruling body's compromise was to give the car a 115kg penalty and fit a stifling restrictor to the GT-R's air intake. That knocked 30kph off the GT-R's maximum velocity at the end of Fuji's 1.5km straight, and in the words of Benoit, "Gives us no chance at all."

Follow through the jump to find out if he was right, and to find out how Lightning McQueen faired in GT300 after qualifying on pole yesterday.

Gallery: 2008 Super GT - Round 3

Continue reading Spoiler Alert: Super GT Rd. 3 Results

Spoiler Alert: Super GT Rd. 3 Results originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 May 2008 09:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fjui speed wayFjuiSpeedWayfuji speed wayFujiSpeedWaygt-rlightning mcqueenLightningMcqueennsxsc-430super gtSuperGtMon, 05 May 2008 09:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Despite rumors, next Acura NSX won't be priced around $200k]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/despite-rumors-next-acura-nsx-wont-be-priced-around-200k/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/despite-rumors-next-acura-nsx-wont-be-priced-around-200k/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/01/despite-rumors-next-acura-nsx-wont-be-priced-around-200k/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for a gallery of the Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept.

Acura is slated to release its NSX replacement sometime around the turn of the decade, but despite what you may have heard circulating the 'Net, it's not going to be priced to compete with Ferrari and Lamborghini. There's little doubt that Acura's 500+hp, V10-powered super sled has Italy's finest in its sights, along with the perennial show queen, the Lexus LF-A, but even with current exchange rates between the Japanese yen and the U.S. dollar, the successor to the NSX won't be carrying a sticker around $180,000. After contacting Mike Spencer, one of Acura's press people, he confirmed that the comments he made were taken out of context and that definitive pricing for the new vehicle is still a long way off. He would only say that the exchange rates would have an effect, but it would be unfair to attempt to guesstimate on price this early in the game. Considering that the last NSX was knocking on the $100k door before it was killed off in 2005, we'd expect a higher sticker for the next model, but pulling a number out of the air, comparing it to other vehicles in the segment and claiming it as fact, is hardly fair. As such, we'll wait for a formal announcement from Acura so you can start saving your pennies for the NSX's upcoming replacement.

Gallery: Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept

Despite rumors, next Acura NSX won't be priced around $200k originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 May 2008 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraadvanced sports car conceptAdvancedSportsCarConcepthondansxnsx replacementNsxReplacementThu, 01 May 2008 12:57:00 EST