Global Economy Kills NSX

Dec. 18 - The automotive market slump in North America continues to have repercussions around the world. Top management at Honda have announced several measures aimed at maintaining profitability. Sales and profit forecasts have been adjusted downward, while executive pay levels are being cut and a number of plant openings are being delayed.

Along with these measures, further development of the Acura NSX sports car has been cancelled. Positioned as competition for the Audi R8 and Nissan GT-R, the model was well into its develoment cycle and anticipated to be unveiled as a 2010 model. The car was rumored to have a front-mounted V10 engine, capable of output in the 500 hp range. The NSX was also expected to showcase a number of advanced technologies. What was believed to be an NSX prototype was seen testing this summer in Germany.

The original NSX sports car ended production in 2005, after a 14-year run. The distinctive supercar, first shown at the Chicago Auto Show in February 1989 featured a mid-engine V6 and an all-aluminum monocoque chassis. With a naturally aspirated VTEC engine delivering 270 hp, the lighteight car was capable of 0 - 60 times just over five seconds.

The company has not ruled out the possibility of an NSX program revival sometime in the future.