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ACURA NSX

The Premium Compact 2016 Acura ILX

January 5, 2016 by admin 3 Comments

Acura’s ILX offers a sleek exterior, a prosaic interior, and a price point keeping in line with this compact gateway sedan’s contribution to the premium segment.

2016 Acura ILX

Acura is a nameplate searching for an identity. Launched three decades ago by American Honda to provide a line of upscale products for the US market, Acura falls under the “luxury brand” mantle, but its model line is composed chiefly of vehicles based on the Honda brand’s front-wheel drive platforms.

The lack of a clear chassis distinction between the two brands has hindered sales even as its chief competitors continue to add new models and build vehicles exclusive to these brands. That fact doesn’t mean Acura has little to offer, but it does mean shoppers should understand what the Acura marque is about and manage their perceptions and expectations accordingly.

2016 Acura ILX

A 2016 Acura ILX entered my test fleet as one calendar year gave way to the next, providing additional time for me to spend with this compact model. The ILX is the entry-level sedan in the segment and is based on the same chassis underpinning the Honda Civic sedan. The remainder of the Acura line is composed of the TLX and RLX sedans as well as the RDX and MDX crossover SUVs.

Importantly, an all-new Acura NSX super car arrives this year, a much-needed and highly anticipated halo model for the brand. The NSX’s high six-figure cost and limited availability will do little to bolster sales directly, but it should invite closer inspection of the entire brand.

Acura prices the ILX from $27,900, effectively undercutting the starting price for models from BMW, Cadillac, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz. All ILXs are powered by a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine making 201 horsepower and comes paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The front-wheel drive ILX is also available in Premium ($29,900) and Technology Plus & A-Spec models ($34,890). Thus, a well-equipped model should cost about $35,000.

2016 Acura ILX

Not Available: All-Wheel Drive

The ILX is also the only Acura model without available all-wheel drive. That’s an option you can find in the competing Buick Regal and Volvo S60 as well as in higher-end rear-wheel drive-based luxury models, such as the BMW 3 Series, Lexus’ IS, and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Although the dimensions of the ILX parallel the Honda Civic, happily there is much that is different for Acura’s most affordable product. Introduced in 2013, the ILX provides a sleek style with a bold front fascia marked by jewel-eyed headlamps and LED accents. Acura’s upswept be-chromed grille is present, along with distinct embrasures housing the available fog lamps. Together, Acura presents a look that is at once sporty as it is upscale.

The ILX has a long hood, a short rear deck, and a sporty profile with a sweeping roof line, an even belt line, upper and lower character lines, and fashionable 17-inch alloy wheels. At the rear is a trunk lip spoiler, wrap around combination lamps, and reflector lights.

2016 Acura ILX

A-Spec Enhanced Interior

Inside, Acura provides room for five, but is much more useful for four. Fold down the rear center seat arm rest and you lose a seating position, but you end up with a more comfortable passenger arrangement. The rear bench seat also folds flat, providing access to the trunk. Leg room is tight, making this model more ideal for the single person or young couple or for the young family with small children.

Up front, the seats are adequately bolstered and comfortable. The driver sits behind a tilt and telescopic steering column; on the face of the leather-stitched wrapped steering wheel are the phone, audio and secondary driver controls.

My test model, a top-of-the-line A Spec, came with aluminum pedals. This model features a two-analog display instrument panel with a digital driver’s information center. At the top of the center stack is the telematics display panel for navigation followed by a second display underneath for the audio system. Switches and knobs for managing the audio and climate control systems follow.

At the base of the stack is a large, enclosed storage compartment, suitable for holding your smartphone. Smartphone connectivity is achieved by running your cord to the covered storage compartment between the front seats, itself doubling as an armrest. Also present between the seats are the switches for seat heating and a transmission stick as well as a pair of cup holders.

2016 Acura ILX

Refinement and NVH

Refinement, unfortunately, is not the ILX’s strong suit. The interior has more than its share of plastics, brightwork trim and other materials that do little to amplify this model’s high-end status. Standard “leatherette” seats can be replaced with perforated leather or suede, but the overall look still comes across as utilitarian.

On the NVH spectrum (noise, vibration and harshness), I detected a constant rattling emanating from the center stack — noise not especially noticeable with the audio system blaring, but otherwise discernible when the cabin should have been relatively quiet. Opening and closing various compartments did nothing to mitigate the rattling, which seemed entirely out of place in the Acura.

Another area where the ILX falls short is with the doors. Access and egress is tight, especially at the rear. Shut the doors and the unmistakable solid thump common to more expensive cars is just not there.

2016 Acura ILX
2016 Acura ILX

Peppy Engine and a DCT

One of the strongest attributes of the ILX is its powertrain. Here, Acura offers a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine and pairs it with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The combination yields sufficient power while enabling exceptional fuel economy — 36 mpg on the highway.

The DCT shifts faster than a normal automatic, using one clutch for odd-numbered gears and a second clutch for even-numbered gears. A torque converter is also present to ensure smooth acceleration from a stop. Yes, you can operate this model in manual mode to shift your way up and down the 8 gear-step range.

With the ILX, Acura also employs a drive-by-wire throttle system. Instead of using a conventional throttle cable to accelerate the sedan, Acura uses electronics to achieve the same result. This electronic connection between the accelerator pedal and engine throttle is designed to achieve quicker and more efficient response and will probably be hardly noticed by most drivers. It wasn’t something I thought about much while behind the wheel and that’s probably a good thing.

As for the engine, it spools up and delivers sufficient power around town, as you enter the freeway as well as on the open road. Had Acura gone with something less powerful, it would only have amplified this model’s basic status. On the other hand, although a more powerful motor might be welcome, it wouldn’t be adequate apart from the positive handling effects of all-wheel drive.

The engine is noisy and raspy, making its presence known especially as you press hard on the accelerator. Noisy four bangers seem more appropriate for a Focus RS or a Civic Si, but less so with the ILX. Nevertheless, it is what it is and that issue may not be an especially big deal for most people.

2016 Acura ILX

Steering and Handling

Among the more positive features of the ILX are its suspension system. For 2016, the front suspension system bushings have been revised and the rear stabilizer bar thickened. These changes provide an improved road feel while increasing overall stability. Further, the reactive dampers help absorb minor road vibration while also reducing body roll.

Handling for the ILX is as you would expect it to be in any small, front-wheel drive model. Fortunately, torque steer is not a concern and this sedan manages curves without drama.

2016 Acura ILX

Your Choice of Entry-Level Models

As far as choosing the ILX, there are many other models from competing manufacturers, which might also be considered. The Audi A3 is one of the better ones in this price range and offers superior refinement all around. In addition, Buick and Volvo bring in all-wheel drive and offer additional powertrain options.

To sum up, the ILX is not a strong entry-level model for the Acura line. What it does have going for it is superior reliability and a host of safety features, all part of the AcuraWatch Plus package.


2016 Acura ILX

  • Sticker price from $27,900
  • Price as tested: $35,000 (estimated)
  • Seats 5
  • 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine
  • 201 horsepower @ 6,800 RPM
  • 180 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,600 RPM
  • 3.43 inches bore by 3.90 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 11.6-to-1
  • 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 105.1 inches
  • Length: 181.9 inches
  • Width: 70.6 inches
  • Height: 55.6 inches
  • Passenger volume: 89.3 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 12.3 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: Not rated
  • EPA: 25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway
  • Premium grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 13.2 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,115 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Top safety pick+
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 6 years/70,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Greensburg, Indiana

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: New Vehicle Reviews Tagged With: 2016 cars, ACURA ILX, ACURA NSX, AUDI A3, BUICK REGAL, dual-clutch transmission, front-wheel drive, PREMIUM, VOLVO S60

Highlights of the 2015 Detroit Auto Show: Media Day 1, Part 2

January 12, 2015 by admin 3 Comments

Ford GT Supercar

Ford serves up a sketch of the next generation Ford GT supercar.

If it is eye candy you want, the North American International Auto Show serves it up in spades. This morning, the Ford GT was unveiled, representing perhaps the most noteworthy vehicle from the new Ford Performance division we will see over the next few years.

Ford GT Supercar

The all-new Ford GT goes into production in 2016 and will join other blue oval performers, including the Focus RS, F-150 Raptor and a pair of Shelby GT350 models. It is just one of at least 12 new models that Ford Performance plans to reveal through 2020, over-the-top models that will crown the Ford brand.

The Ford GT supercar utilizes advanced lightweighting, especially evident in its carbon fiber construction. The rakishly aerodynamic sportscar will be powered by a twin turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine with an output of at least 600 horsepower.

The rear-wheel drive GT features a mid-mounted engine, a two-door coupe body shell, and aluminum front and rear subframes. Its lighter overall package is enhanced by its carbon fiber wrap.

Ford says that the GT will feature a state-of-the-art, port/direct dual fuel-injection arrangement to boost engine response, in addition to a low-friction roller-finger-follower valvetrain. Ford will pair the twin-turbocharged V6 with a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle for expeditious gear changes and unprecedented driver control.

Ford GT Supercar.

The upcoming Ford GT supercar.

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

Another Ford product also received much attention at the NAIAS. Ford unveiled the F-150 SVT Raptor, its performance pickup truck. The new truck, slated to arrive in Fall 2016, will have a high-strength steel frame and light weight aluminum body, trimming some 500 pounds off of the current edition.

The 2017 SVT Raptor will receive a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine, tuned to surpass the 411-horsepower that the current 6.2-liter V-8 engine delivers. Ford will pair this potent engine with its all-new 10-speed automatic transmission. The four-wheel drive system in this beast will offer a multi-setting terrain management system to include normal, street, weather, mud and sand modes. Moreover, it will offer Baja and rock modes. The Raptor’s new transfer case has been designed for both full-time off-roading and features a locking unit for crawling.

Enthusiasts will likely be enraptured by the next generation Ford F-150 SVT Raptor.

Enthusiasts will likely be enraptured by the next generation Ford F-150 SVT Raptor.

Next Generation Acura NSX

Another super car that has been receiving an appropriate amount of buzz is the 2016 Acura NSX. This model is a mid-engine sport hybrid, powered by a twin turbocharged V-6 engine paired with a 9-speed dual clutch transmission. The new model will feature three electric motors — two up front and one to the rear.

The Acura NSX is enhanced by a Sport Hybrid Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD) system, what provides articulate response time for steering, braking and throttle. Moreover, it will enhance vehicle stability, control and launch performance of all-wheel drive. The NSX’s Agile Handling Assist (AHA) makes use of brake torque to further enhance yaw response and dynamic stability control.

Notably, the NSX will be built solely at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio, with approximately 100 highly-skilled workers tasked with conducting full body construction, paint, and final assembly.

2016 Acura NSX.

2016 Acura NSX.

Next Generation Toyota Tacoma

Another significant unveiling in Detroit today was for the 2016 Toyota Tacoma. That pickup truck is new from the ground up as well as inside and out. It will come to the market just as GM fights for position with a pair of new models of its own. The Nissan Frontier is another segment competitor.

In the 2016 Toyota Tacoma, enthusiasts will see a new powertrain and enhanced suspension tuning. Its Michigan engineers made numerous changes to include the addition of high strength steel to the frame and ultra-high strength steel to the body shell, providing a more rigid body as well as an important weight-saving measure.

The base motor is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine; an all-new, 3.5-liter V-6 engine that runs on the efficient Atkinson cycle will also be available. The new engine will feature both direct and port fuel injection. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Moreover, a six-speed manual transmission will be available with the larger engine.

The Tacoma’s exterior look provides for a pleasing, evolutionary update, one that features a striking upper grille along with a taller, more brawny hood. Front projector beam headlamps can be paired with available daytime running lights.

The new model also features a locking tailgate and an integrated spoiler to improve vehicle aerodynamics. The tailgate also comes with an easy lowering feature for a slow retraction. For the very first time, the Tacoma will also offer a tri-fold hard tonneau cover.

2016 Toyota Tacoma

2016 Toyota Tacoma.

Upgraded Interior, Improved Extras

Inside, the cabin features several upgrades to help convey a more premium atmosphere. This model receives soft-wrap trim and metallic accents. Premium upgrades bring in a smart key with push button start, leather-trimmed seats, Qi wireless charging, a power moonroof, dual-zone climate control, an embellished touchscreen audio, a blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert and other enhancements.

Five vehicle grades will be offered: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road and Limited. Both TRD grades were developed by Toyota Racing Development, the same performance arm that is behind Toyota’s motorsport endeavors.

The TRD Off-Road edition features a multi-terrain system, what permits the driver to select different modes to handle a variety of terrain to include sand, mud or loose rock. Wheel spin is accordingly regulated, adjusting throttle and brake pressure to enhance terrain traction.

2016 Toyota Tacoma

The interior of the 2016 Toyota Tacoma.

Related 2015 Detroit Auto Show Articles

Highlights of the 2015 Detroit Auto Show: Media Day 2, Part 2

Highlights of the 2015 Detroit Auto Show: Media Day 2, Part 1

Highlights of the 2015 Detroit Auto Show: Media Day 1, Part 1

Filed Under: Auto Shows Tagged With: ACURA NSX, DETROIT, EcoBoost, FORD GT, FORD SVT RAPTOR, hybrid, NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW, SUPERCAR, TERRAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, Toyota Tacoma

10 Must See Models at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show

December 25, 2014 by admin Leave a Comment

Just as the Rose Bowl is the Granddaddy of all the bowl games, the North American International Auto Show has similar prestige amongst the major automotive shows across the continent. The Detroit auto show isn’t the oldest, but its proximity to the heart of America’s automotive industry makes it the most important of all shows. For 2015, the NAIAS will feature numerous new models, including the following 10 you must see.

2016 Acura NSX.
Tease us please: 2016 Acura NSX.

1. Acura NSX. Whether you call it a sportscar or a super car probably doesn’t matter. The 2016 Acura NSX will be the most advanced and expensive car ever released by American Honda. This two-seater will feature a hybrid drivetrain, with a twin turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine and electric motors powering the car. Importantly, global production for this long-awaited second generation model will take place in Marysville, Ohio, demonstrating Honda’s continued confidence in its American workforce.

2. Toyota Tacoma. It has been a decade since Toyota introduced the current generation of its popular Tacoma pickup truck. Refreshes made since then have kept this truck the segment leader amongst midsize models, but with two new models from GM now in the mix, it is time for a new truck. Toyota has been mum on what we’ll see with the 2016 Tacoma, offering a teaser photo to show us that “Tacoma” will be stamped on its tailgate much in the same way as seen on the larger Tundra.

2016 Toyota Tacoma.
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma will make its global debut in Detroit.

3. Cadillac CTS-V. Cadillac sales are down for the year in a segment where sales are outpacing the industry. GM’s luxury brand has been remaking itself, by bringing new models to the market. V-Series is Cadillac’s performance line and the CTS is its midsize sedan. Put the two together and you have the makings of the most powerful production model ever built by GM, making 640 horsepower and 630 foot-pounds of torque thanks to its supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine. This sport sedan’s top speed is 201 mph for a model that should see much track time.

4. Nissan Titan. Nissan introduced its first full-size pickup truck for the 2004 model year. Unfortunately, the Nissan Titan has not been updated since. Full-size pickup trucks fans, however, will find a 2016 model on display at the 2015 Detroit auto show. Not much is known about the upcoming model, except that a first-ever diesel option will be offered. That motor will come from Cummins, the long-time supplier of a turbo diesel for Ram trucks.

2016 Nissan Titan.
A small hint of the 2016 Nissan Titan.

5. Chevrolet Volt. Pity GM, Nissan and other manufacturers that are investing so much money in bringing electrified vehicles to the market. The second-generation Chevrolet Volt will be on display in Detroit, a sedan that will receive an all-new propulsion system along with an enhanced battery system. It will be interesting to see what changes GM makes to its hybrid electric vehicle. It will also be interesting to see how sales hold up as gas prices drop to as low as $2 per gallon.

6. Audi Q7. Audi introduced its largest crossover utility vehicle for the 2007 model year. Engine updates and other changes have kept this model relevant, but it is time for an all-new Q7 to emerge. The 2016 Audi Q7 will come in lighter and 26 percent more efficient according to the automaker. Two turbocharged engines — one diesel, the other gasoline — both displacing at 3.0 liters will be available. Audi promises several technological updates, including 3D audio.

2016 Audi Q7
Audi’s large crossover is set for its Detroit debut.

7. Mercedes-Benz AMG line. Sorry, Mercedes-Benz fans: your all-new AMG models have already been revealed. What’s the problem with that? Nothing, really. Mercedes will showcase its AMG C-Class and GLE Coupe in Detroit, the first two models in the all-new Mercedes-AMG Sport Line. Essentially, with the new models the German automaker inserts an AMG Sport line, providing a step between the AMG Sports package for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and its classic AMG models.

8. Ford Performance. Earlier this month, Ford announced the creation of its Ford Performance division. That division unites Ford Racing, Team RS and Ford SVT under one umbrella. From that division will come at least a dozen new models through 2020, with several models expected to debut at the Detroit auto show. Ford hasn’t named those models yet, but we’re expecting both the Focus RS and the F-150 Raptor to debut. Rumors of a resurrected GT super car have not been confirmed.

Lexus F Teaser
Lexus F.
9. Lexus F Model. Toyota’s luxury brand, Lexus, has successfully battled Mercedes-Benz and BMW for high net-worth customers. Where they’ve lagged is in performance vehicles, but that’s likely to change. Mercedes-Benz has AMG and BMW has its M line. The high performance F brand is from Lexus and we’ve already seen the delicious RC F. A second model will debut in Detroit, a track-ready sports car Lexus has recently been teasing. Not much is known about the new model, so look for a big reveal at the NAIAS to tell all.

10. Mini Cooper JCW. A Mini John Cooper Works Hardtop will debut in Detroit, powered by a twin turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. According to parent BMW, the new model has already dropped cover, but some details remain, including its price. The latest JCW should make 238 horsepower, providing even more distance between this model and its competitors. The new model will be outfitted with a JCW aerodynamics kit, a Brembo sports brake system and light alloy wheels.

Detroit: North American International Auto Show

The public days for the NAIAS will run from Jan. 17 to 25, 2015. The Detroit auto show is located at the newly refurbished Cobo Center downtown, with shops, restaurants and hotels nearby.

Photos courtesy of the respective automotive manufacturer.


See Also — Upcoming Cadillac CT6 Will Feature Streaming Video

Filed Under: Auto Shows Tagged With: ACURA NSX, AUDI Q7, AUTO SHOW, CADILLAC CTS-V, Chevrolet Volt, DETROIT, FORD PERFORMANCE, LEXUS F, MERCEDES-BENZ AMG, MINI COOPER JCW, Nissan Titan, NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW, Toyota Tacoma

Honda Heritage Center Opens in Ohio

December 24, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

New facility showcases Honda’s history in America.

1974 Honda Civic.
A 1974 Civic: the model that started it all for Honda.

Many people understand that Honda is a Japanese car manufacturer, but the depth and breath of its business extends out much further than that. The company has been doing business in the United States for 55 years and was the first of the “big three” Japanese automakers to build a car manufacturing plant in North America. Truly, Honda is a global operation.

Honda Heritage Center

More than a decade before selling its first cars stateside, Honda established itself as a power equipment and powersports manufacturer. When it came time to build a car factory in the United States, the company chose Marysville, Ohio, for its first location. Since then, Honda has opened other plants, a technical development center and additional facilities. Last week, Honda turned yet another chapter in its US-based history by opening the Honda Heritage Center in Marysville.

On hand at the dedication was the chief operating officer of Honda’s North American regional operations, Takuji Yamada. He was joined by Ohio Gov. John Kasich, state and community leaders, and other Honda officials in dedicating the $35 million, 160,000 square-foot building. The facility is composed of a museum, a technical development center and offices for the automaker.

The museum portion will welcome its first visitors in January and pay tribute to “Honda’s unique tradition” and feature the many products made and achievements reached over the past half-century and more. Visitors will see how Honda has progressed technologically on a number of fronts, including motorcycles, power equipment and automobiles, with some of those products on display.

Part of the museum space will also showcase such innovative technologies as a replica of its ASIMO humanoid robot and the HondaJet. The latter is new with customer deliveries to start in 2015.

Honda motorcycles

Honda’s history of motorcycle manufacturing precedes automotive production.

Technical Development Center

The technical development center was designed to assist Honda engineers, equipment service technicians and production associates in automotive production across North America. Its mission is to ensure that Honda associates are able to carry out the company’s advanced technology requirements. Essentially, Marysville will play a greater role in helping Honda with the development and production of global Honda models. The upcoming Acura NSX is just one example of such a new model.

Explained Tom Shoupe, chief operating officer and executive vice president of Honda of America Mfg. Inc., “As we introduce more sophisticated technologies in our products and in our plants, we are working to ensure that our associates are equipped with the skills required for the manufacturing demands of the future. We view this investment in Honda people as critical to our future success.”

The State of Ohio provided grant money through its JobsOhio program to help launch the technical development center. The center has five full classrooms, including robotic manufacturing cells to provide more hands-on training for technicians. The curriculum is composed of several elements ranging from maintenance math and frequency drives to advanced training for die molds and machining. The state believes the center will serve as both an important focal point for Honda as well as augment regional labor pool development.

HondaJet

The Acura NSX, HondaJet & ASIMO are among Honda’s futuristic offerings.

Detroit Debut: 2016 Acura NSX

Besides its heritage center announcement, Honda’s Acura division made some news of its own as it announced that its second-generation NSX sportscar will make its production version debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this January.

The new model will be underpinned by a hybrid powertrain outfitted with a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine and multiple electric motors. Global production of the 2016 Acura NSX will take place exclusively in Marysville, Ohio, with the first deliveries to customers expected in late 2015. Additional product information will be offered at the Detroit auto show with official pricing coming later in the year.

Photos supplied courtesy of Honda North America.

Additional Honda News

Honda Beats Nissan With a CR-V Stick

Honda Debuts FCV Concept Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle

Why the Honda Insight Failed

Next Generation Honda Ridgeline Silhouette Teased

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: ACURA NSX, American Honda, ASIMO, HONDA HERITAGE CENTER, INNOVATION, MARYSVILLE, OHIO, TECHNICAL DEVELOPMENT CENTER, Technology

Acura Mulls a Full All-Wheel Drive Strategy

October 15, 2014 by admin 3 Comments

Honda’s premium brand looks to the future.

Acura NSX
The NSX is the first performance Acura in a decade.

When you think of premium and luxury cars, brands such as Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Mercedes-Benz, Infiniti and Lexus may come to mind. Acura is up there too, but its models are more often compared with Buick, Lincoln and Hyundai. Its not that Acura lacks product — what it lacks is excitement and any sort of edge that might entice customers to consider the brand.

Acura All-Wheel Drive

Acura excitement is on the way and will appear in 2016 when the NSX returns, a model sold as a Honda in some markets. The newest NSX will be built in Marysville, Ohio, and will offer standard all-wheel drive and be augmented by an electric motor. Its a model that parent Honda hopes will begin a much-needed transformation for the staid Acura brand.

The NSX alone won’t do that, however. What may make a difference for Acura is to offer all-wheel drive only vehicles, something it now offers only on half its product line. The rest of the line is front-wheel drive, something luxury buyers typically avoid.

Will #Acura switch to all-wheel drive only & enjoy the same level of success as #Subaru?(Click to Tweet)

Eyeing Subaru

Word that Acura might make the shift was reported by Automotive News on Tuesday and picked up by other outlets. Its a move that Acura has been studying, particularly as observed in the success another Japanese manufacturer, Subaru, has had in elevating its own brand.

In the 1990s, Subaru switched to an all-wheel drive-only format and has benefited from that move tremendously, particularly over the past six years. The company does sell one rear-wheel drive model, the BRZ, a newer product resulting from its partnership with Toyota.

About all-wheel drive Koichi Fukuo, Acura’s top global executive told Automotive News, “I think that’s the way we should go.” The move would coincide with the release of Acura’s next generation all-wheel drive technology, but the process could take several years to complete as the company overhauled its entire product line over the past three years.

Performance Considerations

Acura is also considering more powerful engines to help stoke sales. The company won’t match BMW and Mercedes-Benz by offering V-8 and larger engines nor would they move to rear-wheel drive. Audi has also had much success with its all-wheel drive models with 90 percent of its sales AWD — the rest are composed of front-wheel drive models.

The advantage of all-wheel drive means that so equipped Acuras would benefit from improved acceleration, stability and offer better handling. All-wheel drive is desired as it systematically offsets torque understeer — what causes a car to pull to one side when full engine power is delivered. It is an uncomfortable and even an unnerving feeling, one that prompts ardent luxury car buyers to look elsewhere for superior handling.

Acura NSX Returns

Acura has been working diligently on changing the brand’s direction and may be ready to present the all-new NSX at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this Jan. When the NSX does arrive it will be the first performance model from Acura in a decade. It will also offer a glaring contrast to what Acura currently sells: three restrained sedans and a pair of crossover utility vehicles.

See Also — Hot Car: 2016 Acura NSX Prototype Laps Mid-Ohio

Photos courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: ACURA NSX, all-wheel drive, AUDI, BRANDING, HANDLING, HONDA, Subaru

Hot Car: 2016 Acura NSX Prototype Laps Mid-Ohio

August 5, 2013 by admin 3 Comments

Acura NSX
An Acura NSX prototype debuts in Ohio.

Few products from Honda have been so anticipated as the Acura NSX, a two-seat, mid-engine supercar that has been out of production since 2005. Sold as the Honda NSX in most markets, an all-new Acura model will go on sale in 2015, an Ohio-built two-door coupe that made its global debut this past weekend.

Ohio Race Track Debut

Honda used the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, on Sunday to debut the Acura NSX prototype. “Prototype” for some manufacturers typically means a car that advances the “spirit” of a future model. For Honda, prototypes are usually the final design for a future product. Thus, the Acura NSX that lapped the race track on Sunday should be virtually identical to the production version we’ll see in about two years.

The all-new Acura NSX will be powered by a direct-injected V-6 engine paired with Honda’s super handling all-wheel-drive system. It will be a hybrid model too, one that will feature three electric motors. One motor will be located up front and work in conjunction with the gasoline engine and the dual-clutch transmission driving the rear wheels. The other two electric motors will drive the front wheels. It is an arrangement that the Honda/Acura people says will adjust torque to the front wheels while cornering.

Acura NSX.
Special decaling marks the Acura NSX prototype.

2016 Acura NSX

A contingent of Honda personnel, race car officials and automotive journalists were on hand to witness the debut of the Acura NSX. Honda issued a press release on Sunday to coincide with the NSX’s global debut with Ted Klaus, chief engineer of Honda R&D Americas, Inc., offering his comments.

Said Klaus, “With leadership from our R&D and manufacturing teams here in Ohio, we are developing a next generation sports car that will be equally at home on the street and on the race track, so it is natural for us to showcase the prototype vehicle here at Mid-Ohio. It is exciting for us to see the prototype running on the track, reflecting the great progress we’re making toward the 2015 global launch of the NSX, as we engineer a new sports-car experience for customers around the world.”

The next generation Acura NSX is being led by engineers at Honda R&D Americas, Inc., in Raymond, Ohio. This vehicle will be built in Marysville, Ohio, using both domestic and globally sourced parts, at a newly established, Performance Manufacturing Center, currently under construction.

Acura NSX.
Acura NSX strikes a pose in Ohio.

Acura NSX Overview

When NSX production ceased in 2005, Honda was building just a few hundred vehicles per year. During its 1991 to 2005 lifespan, just 8,900 models were sold according to Edmunds. The cost for maintaining the model line was prohibitive, but Honda had been considering a new model with a V-10 engine in recent years. Going with a V-6 engine and a hybrid drivetrain takes these plans in another direction, one that Honda hopes will result in strong interest.

Judging by the looks of the prototype and Honda’s reputation for stellar manufacturing, enthusiasts who have well north of $100,000 to burn may line up for this supercar. Yes, it will truly be a halo model, one that will draw attention to the Acura brand like no other model it currently sells can.

Acura NSX Supercar

  • Sticker price $125,000 (est.)
  • Seats 2 occupants
  • Mid-engine mounted V-6 engine
  • Dual-clutch transmission
  • Hybrid drivetrain with three electric motors
  • Super-handling all-wheel drive
  • Competitors: Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Nissan GT-R, Viper SRT
  • Designed, engineered in Raymond, Ohio
  • Vehicle Assembly: Marysville, Ohio

See Also — Countdown to the Acura NSX Reveal

Photos courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: ACURA NSX, HONDA, OHIO, PROTOTYPE, RACE CAR, SPORTS CAR

Countdown to the Acura NSX Reveal

July 29, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

Not too many Honda and Acura products spark widespread anticipation, but the return of the Acura NSX super car has certainly sent tongues wagging. American Honda has played no small part in all this by announcing that the Acura NSX will be revealed at an Ohio race track in early August. Production won’t begin until early 2015, but we’ll soon see a running version of this super car, something that will take everyone’s anticipation up another notch. Well played, Honda.

2016 Acura NSX.

First Look: 2016 Acura NSX Prototype.

 

2016 Acura NSX

Last week, Acura teased us with a prototype picture of the NSX and announced that a “running prototype” of the Acura NSX would take to the track just prior to the start of the Honda Indy 200 IndyCar Series race at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio. The super car, replete with custom graphics, will lap the track on August 4, 2013 (this Sunday). For those enthusiasts that cannot be there in person, the race will be broadcast live by NBC Sports Network beginning at 3 p.m. EDT. Let’s hope that NBC provides us with more than the requisite photo of the new model.

The all-new model will be built exclusively in Marysville, Ohio, at a former seat plant that is located adjacent to Honda’a Marysville Automobile Plant. In March 2013, American Honda announced that it would invest $70 million in the facility and tap 100 of its best workers to build the 2016 Acura NSX. Yes, imagine being called out to build this car — it certainly beats working on a Honda Accord, does it not?

Development of the next generation Acura NSX is being led by engineers at Honda R&D Americas, Inc. in Raymond, Ohio. The original model was sold from 1991 to 2005, a limited production super car built in Japan. The car’s return had been rumored for years, but the recession of 2008 to 2009 may have delayed that announcement.

Acura NSX Prototype

The pictured prototype appears to be slightly different from the earlier model American Honda showed us last spring. That model feature a set of pronounced LED headlamps — five pairs to be exact — while the new model has a more subdued face. However, the earlier sketches emphasized the NSX’s profile, while the latest picture hones in on its fascia. We can speculate all that we want about the differences, but the August 2013 prototype will mirror the production model. One thing that you can say about Honda is that its prototype models seem to always ascribe closely to the production version.

The Acura NSX will be powered by a mid-mounted V-6 engine mated to Honda’s sport hybrid system with three electric motors. One electric motor will be located between the rear wheels, with the other two up front. Yes, it is an electrified model, but it is expected to deliver top performance when operating in gasoline mode. This vehicle will also feature Acura’s Super Handling All Wheel Drive system.

Ohio Players

Entrusting its Ohio workforce to build the Acura NSX demonstrates that Honda is confident that no better team of workers will assemble this super car. Honda has been building cars in the United States for 30 years, learning that American workers can produce high quality products. It was a risky move back them, but Honda’s confidence in its North American workforce is strong.

Said Ted Klaus, Honda R&D Americas chief engineer, “We have a very clear understanding of the high customer expectations luxury buyers around the world have for a supercar, and our challenge is to exceed them and create new value for the customer. This new Performance Manufacturing Center will be key to this challenge.”

And that challenge will deliver to the world a hand-crafted supercar, a halo model for the Acura brand.


See Also — Can You Dig It? Faraday Future Plots Course in Nevada

Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Filed Under: New Models Tagged With: ACURA, ACURA NSX, American Honda, MID-OHIO, OHIO, UNITED STATES

Acura NSX Supercar: Made In Ohio

May 17, 2013 by admin 2 Comments

Acura NSX
Acura NSX supercar to debut in 2015.

The highly anticipated Acura NSX supercar has a new home. This week, Honda of America announced that it plans to convert a former seat plant adjacent to its Marysville Auto Plant into a Performance Manufacturing Center to build the resurrected Acura NSX coupe. Honda will make a $70 million investment and tap 100 highly skilled manufacturing associates from its existing operation to construct its halo model.

2016 Acura NSX

The original Acura NSX was marketed from 1991 to 2005 with just hundreds of models built annually. A prototype of the future model was displayed at the 2012 Detroit auto show, a mid-engine model outfitted with a V-6 engine and a dual-clutch transmission. It is a hybrid model too, demonstrating Honda’s commitment to combine performance with fuel efficiency.

Honda’s Performance Manufacturing Center represents its third auto plant in Ohio. Honda’s engine plant in Anna, Ohio, will supply the NSX’s powertrain.

Executive Appointments Announced

Besides identifying its plant location, Honda announced that Honda R&D Americas chief engineer Ted Klaus is leading the global team developing the new NSX. In addition, Clement D’ Souza, associate chief engineer at Honda of America, will lead the team that will bring the Acura NSX to production beginning in 2015.

“We have a very clear understanding of the high customer expectations luxury buyers around the world have for a supercar, and our challenge is to exceed them and create new value for the customer,” said Klaus. “This new Performance Manufacturing Center will be key to this challenge.”

Honda will likely move quickly to identify the workers that will build the Acura NSX. Once the team has been assembled it will begin training and the manufacturing processes will be put in place. The Ohio manufacturing plant will be the exclusive builder of the all-new Acura NSX, a model that will be exported worldwide.

Luxury Segment Strength

Committing to building the supercar will enhance Acura’s image in the United States and abroad. Acura represents one of the better selling luxury brands in America, beating out Cadillac while finishing behind BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus. For 2012, Honda reported 156,216 Acura models sold.

When the Acura NSX arrives on the market, it will join seven other Acura models ranging from the RLX flagship sedan to its ZDX four-door sports coupe. The balance of the Acura line up is composed mostly of sedans and crossovers with the TSX sold both in sedan and wagon body styles.


See Also — Acura Mulls a Full All-Wheel Drive Strategy

Acura NSX prototype model courtesy of Honda of America.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: ACURA NSX, HONDA, OHIO, Performance Manufacturing Center, PRODUCTION, SUPERCAR

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