2003 Honda Sports Concept

Is the HSC the Next Acura NSX?

If there was a theme to this year's Tokyo auto show it was thinly veiled prototypes. Joining "concepts" from other Japanese automakers Honda took the wraps off what many consider a disguised forbearer to the next-generation NSX, sold under the Acura nameplate in North American markets.

Has Honda pulled back the cover on a possible forbearer to the next generation NSX? (Photo: Honda Canada)

A replacement for the Japanese mid-engine supercar is long overdue. Since the car debuted in concept form at the Chicago Motor Show in 1989 and became a reality in 1990, only one mild facelift featuring exposed headlights and a slightly modified front fascia has occurred. I, for one, have never seen one of these updated models on the road.

A replacement is needed for the NSX, which first hit the market in 1990 and due to manufacturing costs is now priced higher then its current competition. (Photo: Honda Canada)

Despite the NSX's decade of trouble free ownership, it has seriously languished in sales in recent years. But honestly it makes sense why exotic car buyers aren't taking the bait anymore. When the V6 powered coupe was introduced it sold for a very competitive price, but now due to the rising yen and expensive aluminum/composite construction process Acura seems to need $142,000 for the current 290-hp NSX-T, quite a bit higher than a more powerful Porsche 911 or Dodge Viper for instance. Even the Ferrari built Maserati Spyder Cambiocorsa costs less.

But Honda should be commended for continuing on with its flagship model in the face of questionable consumer acceptance, when most other carmakers would have given up long ago. Obviously the Japanese brand that should also be lauded for its years of motorsport participation (and especially noteworthy for its decades of involvement in Formula 1), has big plans for the exotic segment in the future.