The third model in Acura’s display at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show - next to the NSX Concept and the ILX Concept - is the 2013 RDX. The company is calling it a prototype, but we’re pretty sure the production version - scheduled to arrive in Spring 2012 - will be identical.
The 2013 Acura RSX is powered by a new 3.5-liter V-6 engine that now delivers a total of 273 HP - an increase of 33 HP over the current model. This engine will be combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter that will ensure a fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Exterior changes include a longer, sculpted hood, a longer wheelbase and wider track, all-new Amplitude Reactive Dampers, and a new motion adaptive electronic power steering system. For the interior, the company will be offering new sweeping shapes, a matte surface trim, and generous use of leather. The 2013 RDX will also offer larger door openings, more passenger room, increased cargo volume, and a power rear tailgate.
The list of standard equipment includes Pandora internet radio interface, SMS text message feature, a smart entry keyless access system, pushbutton start, and a three view rear camera.
Acura has unveiled the new ILX concept at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. This concept is a preview of a luxury compact sedan scheduled for launch in Spring 2012. The production version will be offered with a choice of three different powertrains, including Acura’s first-ever gas-electric hybrid.
The Acura ILX is defined by a sleek, sporty, and aerodynamic design language with a smart, spacious, and sporty interior. Under the hood, Acura will place a choice of two engines a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine or a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder. A hybrid version will also be offered with a 1.5-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.
"First time luxury buyers place the highest value on exterior styling, affordability and environmental issues and that’s a virtual definition of what we have created with the new Acura ILX," said Jon Ikeda, head of the Acura Design Studio. "The strategy behind this new model is to position ILX as the first opportunity for many young buyers to enter the luxury market."
Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Acura ILX Concept.
Full story
After years of speculations, Honda is finally taking the first steps in offering a successor for the very prominent NSX supercar with its first concept version revealed at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. The company has promised that a production version will follow in the next three years and will be manufactured at the company’s plant in Ohio.
Not only does the concept revealed in Detroit preview the future NSX supercar, it also presents the first application of Acura’s innovative new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system. This system combines a unique 2 Electric Motor Drive Unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system that allows the car to instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. The company then throws in their next generation VTEC 3.5-liter V6 with direct-injection and a dual clutch transmission with built-in electric motor.
"This Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system will make NSX the ultimate expression of Acura’s idea to create synergy between man and machine," said Takanobu Ito, president and CEO of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. "The NSX will make the driver one with the car to enhance dynamic driving abilities without getting in the way."
"Like the first NSX, we will again express high performance through engineering efficiency," added Ito, who led the development of Acura’s first NSX supercar. "In this new era, even as we focus on the fun to drive spirit of the NSX, I think a supercar must respond positively to environmental responsibilities."
More details will surely be revealed on the Acura NSX Concept sometime during the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, so stay tuned!
Acura has spiffed up its entry level sedan, the TSX, to give us the 2012 Special Edition TSX. Though Acura will stick to its tried and true 2.4-liter inline-four VTEC power plant with no additional power increases, there are upgrades inside and out.
The exterior features a more aggressive front spoiler giving it a sporty look, reminiscent of their old sports coupe, the RSX. Other cosmetic upgrades include a rear bumper fascia, side sills, and a fancy "Special Edition" badge on the trunklid.
In the cabin, Acura has made "sport-minded appointments" including suede seat inserts with red backing. There is red stitching abound—on the shift knob, seats, and steering wheel—that compliment nicely with the red ambient lighting featured on the gauge cluster, overhead lighting, and footwell lighting. The pedals have also been upgraded to aluminum.
Acura has also released pricing options for the entire TSX range, with the base model starting at $29,810. The Special Edition starts at $30,810 and comes with either a five-speed auto or six-speed manual tranmission. Opt for the Technology Package—upgraded sound system and navigation—and the price jumps to $32,910.
If you want a 280-horsepower V6 model, MSRP climbs to $35,350, or $38,450 with the Technology Package. Wagon models are also available for $31,160, or $34,810 with the tech upgrades.
Hit the jump to see the press release on the Special Edition model.
Full story
Acura’s mid-size luxury sports car has taken to the 2011 Chicago Auto Show stage with some styling, performance, and technological changes for the 2012MY.
Currently in its fourth generation, the Acura TL hasn’t changed its appearance too much over the years, but as one of Acura’s best selling models, making unnecessary changes wouldn’t exactly be the smartest thing. The 2012 Acura TL does face a few changes to its look, but nothing that would make buyers shy away from their beloved sedan. For the 2012MY, the Acura TL will get new front and rear styling, a new Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission for improved performance and fuel economy, a revised interior, and a host of technology upgrades. Two different version will be up for grabs; the standard model is powered by a 280 HP and the SH-AWD version will get a more powerful 305 HP engine. Both engines can be coupled with a new Sequential SportShift 6-speed automatic transmission that helps improve fuel economy by 3 mpg compared with the 2011 model.
"The 2012 Acura TL is refined, yet aggressive," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "Already known for its great performance, the enhanced TL has a sophisticated new look and an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission that will take performance to the next level."
UPDATE 03/09/2011: Acura has announced today that the 2012 TL will go on sale on March 18, 2011 at a starting price of $35,605. Full pricing list after the jump.
Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Acura TL.
Full story
