Racy new Honda NSX Type R on the cards
Honda boss Ted Klaus tells of plans to "continue to improve" NSX, which could mean a hot Type R and drop-top cars in the future
Faster and more stylish versions of the Honda NSX will be launched over the coming years, according to the car’s development chief.
Ted Klaus said his team would “continue to improve performance and styling”, reigniting hopes of a more focused Honda NSX Type R model, as well as a convertible version.
When asked whether he’d like to see a Type R added to the NSX range at some point in the future, Klaus commented: “I think everyone who loves cars wants to see a version that we say is pure red.
“The NSX has always been silver first, moving towards red later. Someone asked me, ‘when will you be satisfied?’ Probably never. What you do today, you can improve on tomorrow.”
The original Honda NSX went on sale in 1990, with an R version joining the range in 1992. The NSX-R was specially modified for improved on-track performance, featuring stiffer suspension and a lighter body. The stereo and air-conditioning were removed, while new forged alloy wheels and a titanium gearlever helped drive down the car’s overall kerbweight.
While we can only speculate on the new car’s power, price and performance, the Type R is likely to be at least a couple of years away. The standard car produces some 550bhp and costs £130,000.
Klaus also revealed that as the NSX was based on a new sports car platform he wants to “keep the buzz alive” both in his team and among the buying public through tweaks to the car throughout its lifespan. He suggested a convertible version may also be part of his plans.
Despite the growth of new NSX variants, Honda is keen to restrict demand and it’s unlikely to rise much above its current capacity of eight cars a day. However, the technology will drive development advances for Honda’s more mainstream models.
It’s clear Klaus and his team of engineers have high aspirations for the new NSX. It’s said to have the lowest centre of gravity in its class, designed to make it more agile and fun to drive. We asked which cars Klaus considered to be ‘in the NSX’s class’ – and he immediately listed the Ferrari 458, Audi R8 V10 and Porsche 911 Turbo as rivals.
That might sound ambitious, but with more than 550bhp on tap and peak torque available from zero revs, we can expect 0-62mph in less than four seconds. The standard Ferrari 458 gets 562bhp and will cover the same sprint in 3.4 seconds.
Mike Accavitti, Senior Vice President for Acura, commented on how the NSX felt to drive, claiming it is both “outstanding and astounding”. Of course, we’ll reserve judgement until we drive the car later this year.
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