Although Acura did not unveil its next generation NSX gasoline, tri-electric Hybrid at the L.A. Auto show; as AMG presented its Gran Torismo 6 concept car to the world, they have designed a world class contender that Honda says will be available to the public in 2015.
In the high stakes game of limited production million dollar concept cars, Honda has taken a very temporary backseat to Mercedes AMG. For whatever reason, both companies have opted to launch R&D concepts through the bigger than life virtual reality game Gran Torismo 6. Fans familiar with high definition virtual reality also know that millions play these games with revenues to the maker meeting and exceeding major motion picture production. It’s a win, win scenario for all participants.
The revenue is huge and the audience vast. But what’s really going on here for performance auto manufacturers is a very cost effective method of measuring the public's reaction to a future production model, or something very similar to the current concept.
When we take a look at the AMG Gran Torismo 6 Concept, most will see a car that has very little to no practical application; although the thing looks damn cool in a chopped and channeled 70s Corvette sort of way.A cross between a Ford GT 40 and an A.C. Cobra with a retro vintage Mercedes race car grill. If and when the car goes into production, expect it to be very limited and extremely expensive.
On the other hand, the NSX retains the styling cue of past generations while propelling the “concept” into the near future. In-fact, it does look like a possible, drivable limited production car. We believe this sports Hybrid could be produced in limited numbers and priced competitively in the $125-150,000. range; just a guess..
Looking to the Acura NSX Hybrid specifications: We find similar propulsion systems being utilized in today's Honda’s Accord, Civic Si and CR-Z Hybrid coupe. While AMG could bring their concept to market, it's far more likely that Honda will produce the 2015 Acura NSX Hybrid.
The original NSX was released to the public in 1991. At that time there was nothing like it on the road. Powered by the Honda C 20 A 2.0 liter V 6, mounted midships, the 300 horsepower aluminum bodied G.T. would smoke most cars in its class. Expect the 2015 NSX Hybrid to dominate the Supercar class.
Honda R&D has developed a four motor, “smart” all wheel drive system that delivers unprecedented “ controlled” torque to all four wheels Via a computer controlled drive and grade sensor. I’ll let you read about it here. Amazing stuff. When the Aluminum NSX hits the market in 2015, nothing (obtainable) on the road will touch it for quickness, torque, style and tech-advanced fuel economy and low to o emissions.
I know my educated readers will remind me that Honda has been teasing the public with the Acura Hybrid since its introduction to the public in 2012. Why hasn't the car been released into production? I have no idea. But I do believe that the wait will be worthwhile. You can find a bit of history on the development of the NSX here.
Yeah, I know, it's just a
Yeah, I know, it's just a game... Maybe. I see the NSX coming down the road long before AMG Mercedes pulls the trigger on their retro rod. What do you think?