Honda NSX-R and Roadster strong possibilities
Additional variants and body styles of the recently launched Honda NSX are very likely, as the Japanese brand looks to expand its supercar offering in the coming years.
Speaking to CarAdvice at the launch of the Honda NSX in Portugal this week, the model's chief engineer, Jason Bilotta, confirmed that the platform was always intended for more than just one purpose.
“You know, I have designed this platform to be able to accommodate different variants on it and use it as a [scalable] platform,” Bilotta told CarAdvice.
“So, while we can’t speculate about what will happen in the future, there is the ability to make some variants or derivatives, so hopefully - depending on the market response - we will be able to provide that.”
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A Honda NSX roadster, along with higher-spec NSX-R or NSX Type R models, are the two most likely candidates for the next variant.
There is also an opportunity for Honda to do something similar to what McLaren has done with its variable platform and powertrain, creating unique variants on the same structure.
Bilotta confirmed that power increases are likely as the model progresses along its lifecycle.
“Certainly as this is the launch model, through the life cycle we will try and optimise the performance and potentially increase it, as that’s the natural desire in this segment - so we will follow suit.”
Honda Australia will also be keen to take additional variants if and when they become available, with the local arm's general manager of customer and communications, Scott McGregor, telling CarAdvice future NSX variant would all be assessed for our market.
“I don’t think we are making any decisions at this point, as we have no information as to what those would be, but we will assess them as they come along.” McGregor said.
As for those that seek to buy and modify an NSX for extra performance, Bilotta says it’s possible - but, given the car’s electronic systems, it’s not as easy and it may seem.
“As with anything, you have to be careful when you modify a car like this. It is very complicated. If you do modify it, there is the potential to disturb the balance of the thing, so you do have to be careful.”
Asked if it would be a simple matter of just upping the boost of the twin turbochargers, Bilotta says that will have an affect but not necessarily for the better.
“If you were to upgrade the power of the engine someway, certain things would go out of balance but [yes], you will essentially have more power.”
Honda Australia is expecting first customer deliveries to start early next year, with less than 10 expected in the first 12 months.
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