Now we know the Acura NSX is going to be delivered early next year. It is a real thing that is actually happening, even after such a long time waiting, and while a Halo car gives us plenty to talk about, we still have to ask: What’s next for Acura?
Performance for the Rest of Us
The NSX is an incredible car, and the technology utilized in its creation is sure to spread across the rest of the brand eventually, but some of us don’t want to wait for “eventually.”
It was rumored last fall that Acura was considering a more affordable performance option, but there has never been any indication of how that model would shape up. In our attempt to read the tea leaves, we see a couple of options.
Image: Car and Driver
First, we look to the past and see an old nameplate itching for revival. In the 1990s, Acura sold a two-door sport coupe called the Integra. Before it was discontinued, it was sold as the RSX. It functioned as a little brother to the NSX and was a viable option for those who couldn’t justify owning Acura’s peak performance model. That sounds like a familiar role that needs filling once again.
Second, we look to the present where we have the TLX, a comfortable family sedan that could, with some fine tuning and modification, function as a very capable sporting sedan. Another rumor from last fall was that Acura was considering such a sport variant for the TLX. With a more powerful engine, a reworked suspension, and a more aggressive aero kit, it’s definitely doable. We don’t think it’s likely, though, given the established character of the car.
Regardless of the model, we should also remind our readers of yet another rumor from last year, the one where Acura was entertaining the possibility of making all-wheel drive a standard feature on all models. Making all-wheel drive a signature characteristic has had positive effects on other brands, and Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive is one of the most advanced systems in the business. If we get the affordable performance option we’re hoping for, it will be interesting to see if the drivetrain signals this change.
Continued Crossover Dominance
While a new sports car might be what most of us want, it might be that what we need is actually another model to round out Acura’s crossover selection. It’s no secret that the RDX and MDX are Acura’s best-selling models, and Honda has a new small crossover that is ripe for an Acura upgrade.
The Honda HR-V is doing well and filling an expanding niche in the market for couples and young people who want a compact versatile vehicle. Of what we’ve discussed so far, this would be the least surprising new model for Acura. The automotive soothsayers are even whispering the name they think this crossover will be called: the CDX. Sounds believable to us.
Given that all of these possibilities are just that and none of them have been formally announced, the earliest we would see one of these new models is the 2017 model year, and a safe bet would look for a new introduction sometime ahead of the 2018 model year.
We want to hear from you. What option most excites you? Would you prefer seeing something sporty like a new RSX, or would you rather have the practical premium treatment of the CDX? Let us know on your next visit to our store.
For any questions about Acura’s current inventory, call or visit us today at Leith Acura of Cary.