NSX Getting to Twin Turbo and Hybrid V6 and Convertible Possible

HondaHondaJapan, 1948 > present102 models
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is making some big announcements about the upcoming NSXAcura NSXJapan, 2013 > present22 photos
at the Tokyo Motor Show. First, the car being shown in Tokyo with a twin-turbocharged V6 in favor of the previous naturally aspirated V6. Second, Honda has confirmed that it is working on a convertible version of the NSX that would go on sale two years after the coupe.

We reached out to AcuraAcuraJapan, 1986 > present24 models
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for comment about the twin-turbo engine, and its response was circumspect but a confirmation.

“As we announced back at the Detroit show in 2012, the NSX will use a new Sport Hybrid system with a V6 engine and three electric motors---two mounted in the rear and one mounted with the engine/trans. The powertrain mock up we showed this week in Japan has two turbos mounted and we continue to develop in that direction, said Acura PR spokesperson Chuck Schifsky.

The change to a longitudinally mid-mounted twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with three hybrid motors should make it easier for the NSX to keep up with competitors like the 597hp Ferrari 458Ferrari 458 SpecialeItaly, 2014 > present and 616hp McLaren 12CMcLaren MP4-12CUnited Kingdom, 2012 > present544 photos
.

The size of the final car is also getting changed slightly. The production version will be larger in every dimension but will have exactly the same styling.

The convertible version is not a guarantee, but the project leader says that his team is definitely considering it.

"We are looking at the convertible, but we have a long way to go with it," said sid Principal Designer Jun Goto.

The monocoque of the NSX would certainly allow for a convertible, but it would have to fit the top between the mid mounted engine and passenger area.

Source: Autocar