Plans to build Acura’s mini NSX are reportedly active once again, according to Motor Trend. The project had been put on hold due to financial troubles. This good news takes some of the attention away from the 2015 Acura NSX, which has been attracting a lot of buzz. The mini NSX, which is known internally as the Small NSX, is exactly like its bigger counterpart except that it’s a lot smaller. It will be powered by a version of Acura’s super-handling all-wheel-drive system. It may be powered by a turbocharged direct-injection engine, which may include versions of Honda’s 3.5-liter V-6, 2.4-liter I-4, or 2.0-liter I-4. However, the 2.4-liter engine is the most likely candidate.
Similar to the NSX, the mini NSX may get some type of hybrid drivetrain. The upcoming NSX will get an electric motor to drive the rear wheels, while the front wheels are driven by two more electric motors. The new Acura NSX, which is produced in the U.S., will be equipped with a twin-clutch seven-speed transmission. Last April, it was reported that the car will keep the driver involved instead of “being taken for a ride by a highly robotized car.”
The Small NSX may follow a year or two after the launch of the NSX in 2015 but even if the car is small in size, it’s likely to be expensive if it does go into production. It’s estimated that the Small NSX would probably be priced between $50,000 and $60,000. With this model, Acura may be able to recoup NSX development costs. It’s possible that it will go up against the Porsche Cayman.
