Honda NSX Concept 2013-07

New year, new NSX Concept. At last year’s Detroit show, Honda unveiled the Acura NSX Concept that gave us a preview of the much-anticipated next-gen Honda NSX. At this year’s NAIAS, they pulled the wraps off an updated version of that concept. It’s much closer to reality now, and here’s why.

Firstly, Honda says that the 2013 concept is “based on the expected underpinnings of the vehicle Acura will bring to market,” which means that this is not just merely an empty-shell styling proposal. Despite this, the new NSX Concept maintains the original’s low and wide stance, highlighted by clean and simple surfacing, and edgy details that “communicate supercar attitude and a high-tech feel.”

Also, this “Mk2” concept gives us a first look at “one possible direction for the next-generation NSX interior design.” The cabin is founded on a “Human Support Cockpit” theme focusing on “the synergy between man and machine.” Honda says that the cockpit boasts outstanding visibility, an exotic driving position, and an intuitive “Simple Sports Interface” that minimises interior clutter.

Honda NSX Concept 2013-15

“This further evolution of the Acura NSX Concept design is remarkably true to the original concept styling. We’re making great progress in delivering on the expectations we created a year ago, with advanced technology that will bring new levels of performance and a unique, dynamic experience to the exotic sports car market,” said Mike Accavitti, VP of national marketing operations.

It was announced last year that the NSX will be powered by a mid-mounted, direct-injected V6 engine mated to Honda’s Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system.

Sport Hybrid SH-AWD is an all-new, three-motor high-performance hybrid system that combines torque vectoring AWD with advanced hybrid efficiency through the use of three electric motors – one integrated with the V6 and two motors driving the front wheels – along with an all-new dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

Honda says that the system enables instant delivery of negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering to achieve a new level of driving performance unparalleled by current AWD systems. We’ve sampled all these tech first-hand in Japan – click here for an in-depth look into Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology programme.

The new NSX is being developed by a global R&D team led by designers and engineers at Honda R&D Americas in Los Angeles and Ohio. The production NSX will be manufactured at a new production facility in central Ohio.

So, production NSX at next year’s Detroit show?