Just after images of the new Honda NSX testing at the Nurburgring emerged, a spy video showing the prototype on some hot laps has been posted. The new video reveals far more than the pictures with it giving us our very first listen to the hybrid engine.
With the new Honda NSX likely to compete against cars like the Jaguar F-Type, Porsche 911 and upcoming Mercedes-AMG GT, a key aspect of creating such a performance oriented sports car will be to ensure it sounds excellent. Unfortunately however, the following prototype’s exhaust note is extremely muted and it is actually hard to hear the engine through the corners over the engine roar. Here’s hoping Honda can improve this when the car is revealed!
The final details about the engine have yet to be confirmed, but what has been confirmed is that the 2015 Honda NSX will utilise a twin-turbocharged V6 engine displacing either 3.5-liters or 3.7-liters. Unsurprisingly, this new engine will be completely unique to the upcoming NSX and should deliver around 400 hp.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfB5eHO1nq4#t=38[/youtube]
Joining the twin-turbocharged V6 engine will be three electric motors. In this system, one electric motor is mounted at each front wheel while the third is integrated into the engine and helps drive the rear wheels. These motors are powered by a lithium-ion battery recharged thanks to regenerative braking.
Mated to the awesome powertrain will be a dual-clutch transmission promising to have “more than six gears”. At this stage, it is most likely the 2015 Honda NSX will receive a seven-speed gearbox but an eight-speed could also be on the cards.
Production of the new Honda NSX should begin at the start of next year at the firm’s production facility in Ohio. When it goes on sale, expect prices to start at around $110,000 in the U.S.
