Acura will say goodbye to the 2nd gen NSX with the launch of the limited edition Type-S, featuring performance and aesthetic enhancements.
The NSX traces its roots back to the unveiling of the original prototype at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show. It was the first Japanese supercar to be showcased in the international arena and featured Honda’s world-renowned VTEC engine. Thanks to F1 legend Ayrton Senna helping to develop the platform, improving the chassis rigidity by as much as 50%, and one of the first all-aluminum space frames, the car was a hit from day one.
In 1994, the NSX received a power upgrade, swapping the 3.0-liter V6 for a larger 3.2-liter unit that increased horsepower and torque figures from 270 hp & 210 lb-ft to 290 hp & 224 lb-ft. It quickly became an icon of the sport compact era of the 90s and received a couple of minor refreshes until it was discontinued in 2005.
There were plenty of rumors surrounding the NSX making a comeback sometime in the 2010s, rumors later officially confirmed by Honda when it unveiled the NSX Concept at the North American International Motor Show in 2013. The second-gen NSX finally debuted in 2015 with an all-new design, a first-of-its-kind hybrid system using a triple-motor setup with torque vectoring, and a twin-turbocharged V6 powerplant hooked to a 9-speed DCT.
The final edition of the NSX, the Type S, carries the ethos of its predecessor, albeit with some additional performance enhancements and a design refresh. For instance, the front fascia now features a new bumper with an aggressive lip and splitter with edgy, angular vents on either side. In addition, the black Acura logo moved from the hood to the bumper.
Moreover, the side skirts and intake vents now appear sharper, but more importantly, the Type S is fitted with all-new split 5-spoke forged alloy wheels for an even sportier stance. And if that wasn’t enough, the Type S also gets a new diffuser inspired by the NSX Evo GT3 race car—pretty neat.
Acura’s also offers a sinister-looking ‘Gotham Gray Matte’ livery, limited to only 70 models, and customers can also opt for the Lightweight package, adding carbon-ceramic brakes, a carbon engine cover, carbon fiber trims, and a 57 lbs weight reduction.
Inside the cabin, the NSX Type S has a fair amount of Alcantara with contrast stitching and a semi-aniline Leather combination available in Ebony, Orchid, or Red. The NSX logos are embossed on the headrests, while the Type S logo is embroidered on the glove compartment. Other interior features, including the infotainment system, remain the same as before.
However, the NSX Type S’ biggest improvements lie in the driving dynamics and powertrain department. The twin-turbo V6 gets new fuel injectors, intercoolers, and new turbochargers sourced from the NSX GT3 Evo, increasing peak power output from 500 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque to 520 hp and 443 lb-ft.
Furthermore, the revered hybrid system now features a larger battery pack and improved power efficiency, boosting the total figure up to 600 hp and 492 lb-ft of torque. In addition, Acura has tweaked the 9-speed DCT for faster and more accurate shifts, also including a Rapid Downshift Mode.
The NSX Type S will be limited to only 350 examples worldwide, with 300 units allocated to the US alone. The model will cost $169,500, while the Lightweight package will set you back an additional $13,000.
The Type S marks the end of the icon that is the NSX. There are rumors regarding a Type-R model coming at some point in the future, but these are nothing but hearsay as of now.
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