USA/JAPAN: Honda confirms NSX replacement but is coy on details

By just-auto.com editorial team | 12 July 2005

Honda has finally confirmed it will replace its current long-running NSX 'supercar' - first launched in 1991.

The automaker said in a statement on Tuesday that it is developing a new car to succeed the current model and that production of the present generation NSX will cease at the end of the year due to the extensive re-tooling necessary to meet stringent 2006 emissions and equipment regulations for the US, Europe and Asia.

The NSX is sold as an Acura in the US and as a Honda in all other markets. Sales of the hand-built model produced in a dedicated factory in Japan have reduced to a trickle in recent years, though the car has received regular updates.

"We are committed to having an ultra high-performance vehicle in the Acura lineup in the future," said John Mendel, senior vice president, automobile operations, for Honda Motor's California-based US unit.

"It's too early to comment on specifics, but the all-new model will be just as groundbreaking as the 1991 NSX."

As the first-ever supercar from Japan, the NSX was created as a hand-built, exotic, mid-engine sports car that would establish entirely new levels of performance, refinement and drivability. The NSX went on sale in the US during the summer of 1990 and the following year posted record sales there of 1,940 vehicles.

To the end of June 2005, NSX cumulative sales totaled 8,854 in the US - its best single market - and around 18,000 world-wide.

Acura designed the NSX as a technological and performance showcase. Among other innovations, it was the first production car to feature an all-aluminium body, chassis, and suspension and titanium connecting rods.

It had a transversely mounted dual overhead cam V-6 engine equipped with Honda's newly developed VTEC (variable valve timing and lift electronic control) system and a variable volume induction system.

Sectors: Vehicle manufacturers, Vehicle manufacturing

Companies: Honda, Acura