As the year 2016 comes to an end, we take a look at one of the most iconic cars that made a return to the automotive realm, after a gap of about 11 years – the all-new Honda NSX.
Honda has clearly used the past decade rather well to put together their all-wheel drive electric-hybrid supercar that is practically dripping with clever technology. It’s skeleton is an ultra-rigid multi-material space frame, optimised for better dynamics and improved performance and the best possible driving experience.
It has three engines, a twin-turbo DOHC 3.5-litre V6 for the rear wheels, and an electric twin-motor unit, one for each front wheel. All together, this power unit helps the all-wheel drive NSX put out 565bhp and 645Nm of torque, good for a topspeed of 191mph. Those figures are good enough to solidify its place in supercar territory. The hybrid power-unit is paired to a 9-speed dual clutch transmission, giving it a 0-96kph time of 2.7 seconds. Sandwiched between that and the V6 is a Direct Drive Motor, attached directly to the driveshaft for immediate torque and acceleration.
Now, the design. I must say, I really really like it. All those graceful lines, aggressive angles, all of which have aerodynamic purpose for better performance. The row of LED headlights, the giant air vents at the front, the quad-exhaust, it all comes together beautifully.
On the inside, disappointingly, it still feels like another Honda. While they may call it minimalistic, it simply is a bit of sour piece in an otherwise brilliant piece of engineering. But as the many driving reviews suggest, it is a proper driver’s car and it is usable in daily routine too, and is brilliant fun. A fitting successor then, to a car that was built with the help of driving legend Senna and has been close to the hearts of many a petrolhead.
But all that clever technology does take some of the edge off, is a common complaint, for which one remembers the old NSX, but in itself, the new NSX is truly a fantastic Honda. But it has a GT3 sibling for the track, and we are waiting to see how it does against it’s European rivals. *deeply satisfied hum*
The Auto Loons 
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