The Acura NSX nameplate carries a legacy that resonates deeply within the automotive world, long before the 2017 model graced showrooms. Its legendary status was cemented by the original NSX launched in 1990, a groundbreaking vehicle that redefined expectations for Japanese performance cars. As the first mass-production car to boast an all-aluminum body, the first-generation NSX enjoyed a decade and a half of production, becoming a highly sought-after classic among collectors and a cornerstone of the Japanese supercar lineage.
The 2017 Honda Acura NSX arrives with the weight of this formidable reputation on its shoulders, and visually, it immediately conveys its intent. Echoing its predecessor, the new NSX features a distinctive black roof and wide-set taillights, while the aggressively sculpted functional air intakes give the car a powerfully menacing front profile. The visual appeal is undeniable; when bathed in the right light, the vibrant red aluminum bodywork becomes a magnet for attention, drawing admiring glances and even prompting impromptu roadside stops from onlookers eager to get a closer look at this modern marvel.
Stepping inside the Acura NSX 2017 reveals a surprisingly comfortable and driver-focused cabin. The seats are designed to envelop the occupant, creating a cockpit-like feel that enhances the sense of connection with the car. A particularly refined touch is the subtle, almost hidden stitching on the steering wheel, reminiscent of the craftsmanship found in high-end tailoring. This detail provides a tactile contrast to the modern array of buttons, controls, and digital screens, subtly reminding the driver of the NSX’s Honda roots – a foundation of reliability and straightforward engineering beneath the supercar veneer.
The pivotal question then arises: Can the 2017 NSX truly compete with established supercars like the Ferrari 458? Acura confidently asserts its performance credentials, and the answer, ultimately, hinges on the driver’s priorities.
Acura’s performance claims are certainly compelling, boasting a 0 to 60 mph acceleration in a mere 3 seconds and a top speed reaching 191 mph. Honda’s engineering team meticulously refined the NSX throughout its development, even pivoting from an initial naturally aspirated V-6 engine concept. The final iteration features a potent twin-turbo V-6 engine generating 500 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. This power is further amplified by electric motors and a responsive nine-speed dual-clutch transmission, seamlessly distributing power to enhance both cornering agility and straight-line speed. The combined output of this hybrid powertrain culminates in an impressive 573 horsepower and 476 pound-feet of torque. This translates to genuine racetrack capability, yet the NSX retains a remarkable composure for everyday driving. It’s sharp, rapid, and exhilarating when pushed, but equally manageable and refined when cruising. The “Sport Plus” mode emerges as a sweet spot, delivering an exhilarating soundtrack and exceptionally responsive performance, perfectly encapsulating the dual nature of the 2017 Honda Acura NSX.
