2016 Acura NSX Overview and Powertrain
The 2016 Acura NSX, also known as the second generation Honda/Acura NSX, is a mid-engine hybrid sports car produced by Acura, a luxury division of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. The model uses a 3.5 liter twin turbocharged V6 engine combined with three electric motors, branded as Sport Hybrid SH-AWD, to deliver a combined system output of 573 horsepower and 476 pound feet of torque. The car is built at the Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio, United States, and was first revealed as the Acura NSX Concept in 2012 before its production launch in 2016. According to Acura's official specifications, the 2016 NSX accelerates from 0 to 60 miles per hour in approximately 2.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 191 miles per hour. The base price in 2016 started around 156,000 United States dollars before destination charges, positioning it as a premium hybrid sports car competing with European rivals. For background on Acura as a brand, see the company overview at Acura Official Site.
The powertrain combines a mid mounted 3.5 liter V6 with a nine speed dual clutch transmission and a dual motor front axle setup for torque vectoring. The total system output is achieved through a combination of the internal combustion engine and electric motors, with the rear motor mounted directly on the engine to act as a starter and generator. The system uses a lithium ion battery pack located in the lower rear of the car to support electric only driving for short distances and to improve weight distribution. This hybrid architecture allows the 2016 NSX to deliver variable torque distribution to all four wheels through Acura's Super Handling All Wheel Drive system. The powertrain design reflects Acura's focus on lightweight hybrid performance, with the car using aluminum and carbon fiber components to reduce mass.
2016 Acura NSX Pricing, Trim Levels, and Market Context
In the United States market, the 2016 Acura NSX was offered in multiple trim levels including the base model and higher performance variants such as the NSX Type S, which added features like a titanium exhaust system and upgraded suspension components. The base model price in 2016 was set at approximately 156,000 dollars, with fully loaded examples reaching over 200,000 dollars depending on options and dealer markups. The NSX competed in the premium hybrid sports car segment against models such as the Porsche 911 Turbo S, McLaren 570S, and Ferrari 488 GTB, according to automotive market analysis from industry publications. The car was positioned as a technology focused alternative, emphasizing hybrid efficiency, advanced aerodynamics, and a configurable all wheel drive system. For broader context on hybrid sports car market trends, see analysis at Forbes.
Acura structured the 2016 NSX lineup to appeal to buyers seeking a blend of daily drivability and track performance, with features such as multiple driving modes including Quiet, Sport, Sport+, and Track. The car offered a carbon ceramic brake package, magnetorheological dampers, and a rear wheel steering system as part of its technology suite. In terms of sales, the NSX was produced in limited volumes compared to mass market vehicles, with Acura targeting a niche audience of enthusiasts and collectors. The model's pricing strategy reflected its position as a halo product for the Acura brand, aimed at enhancing the brand's image and attracting new customers to the luxury lineup. The 2016 NSX also served as a