Supercars once commanded respect through sheer intimidation: roaring engines, a chassis that seemed to fight you at every turn, and the omnipresent thrill that you were perpetually on the knife-edge of disaster. This raw, untamed experience was, for many, the very definition of automotive passion. But what happens when that formula is deliberately, meticulously refined, when a supercar becomes not just powerful, but almost… effortless to drive fast? This profound question leads us directly to the 2019 Acura NSX, a machine that dares to challenge preconceived notions of what a supercar should be, forcing us to ask: Is This The Smartest Supercar Ever Made… Or The Least Emotional?
Background & Heritage
To truly understand the 2019 Acura NSX, one must first look back at its legendary predecessor, the original NA1/NA2 generation. Introduced in 1990, the first NSX (New Sports eXperimental) was a revelation, a genuine paradigm shift in the supercar world. Conceived by Honda with an unwavering commitment to engineering excellence, it dared to challenge established Italian and German marques by offering Ferrari-beating performance, exotic looks, and, critically, Honda reliability and daily usability. This was a supercar you could genuinely drive to work, visit the grocery store, and then confidently take to the track, all without the customary supercar drama of constant breakdowns or temperamental mechanics. Ayrton Senna’s legendary input in its chassis tuning only solidified its icon status, making it a benchmark for driver connection and balanced handling.
The gap between the first-generation NSX’s discontinuation in 2005 and the second-generation’s debut in 2016 was a long, often agonizing wait for enthusiasts. Over a decade passed, punctuated by various concepts and rumors, each fueling anticipation for how Acura (Honda in most other markets) would reinterpret such a revered nameplate. The automotive landscape had transformed dramatically, with emissions regulations tightening, performance metrics soaring, and technology becoming increasingly integrated into the driving experience. Following a legend is always an immense challenge, but following one that defined its era required a complete reimagining, not merely an evolution. Acura opted for a radical departure, embracing the future of performance rather than clinging to the past.
Acura’s decision for the new NSX was not merely to build another fast car; it was to redefine what “fast” means in the modern era. While many contemporary supercars continued to chase ever-higher horsepower figures, often relying on massive turbocharged engines, the NSX aimed for something more nuanced. It sought to leverage cutting-edge hybrid technology and sophisticated all-wheel-drive systems to achieve accessible, repeatable performance that prioritized precision over brute force. This philosophical shift was a direct response to the increasing complexity and demands of the modern supercar market, recognizing that raw drama, while exhilarating, wasn’t the only path to true speed and driver satisfaction. It was about engineering confidence, not just excitement.
This commitment to precision and controlled power delivery meant that the new Acura NSX would inevitably stir debate. Purists, longing for the analog purity of the original, might initially balk at the complex hybrid powertrain and electronic aids. However, a deeper understanding reveals that the spirit of the original—its groundbreaking approach to usability and accessible performance—was very much alive, simply translated into a 21st-century context. The new NSX wasn’t trying to scare you; it was trying to make you faster, to unlock higher levels of performance with a sense of calm and control that few of its rivals could match. It embodied a sophisticated, almost cerebral approach to high-performance driving, aiming to empower the driver rather than overwhelm them, a philosophy deeply rooted in its storied lineage.
Engineering & What’s Under The Hood
At the heart of the 2019 Acura NSX’s revolutionary performance is its longitudinally mounted, twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine. This bespoke powerplant, developed specifically for the NSX, features a dry-sump lubrication system allowing for a lower center of gravity and excellent lubrication even under high-G cornering. Its 75-degree V-angle is narrower than many traditional V6s, contributing to a compact design, while its twin turbochargers provide substantial boost, generating a formidable 500 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque on its own. Coupled with a nine-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that offers lightning-fast shifts and a wide ratio spread for both acceleration and efficiency, this V6 forms the robust foundation of the NSX’s complex hybrid system, delivering power with remarkable immediacy and refinement.
However, the V6 is only part of the story. The true genius of the NSX lies in its Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All-Wheel Drive) system, which incorporates three electric motors to augment the combustion engine. One direct-drive electric motor is integrated between the V6 and the DCT, providing instant torque fill, boosting overall power, and assisting with gear changes. The real innovation comes from the two independent electric motors housed in the front Twin Motor Unit (TMU). These motors each provide 36 horsepower and are capable of dynamic torque vectoring, independently driving the left and right front wheels. This setup allows the NSX to effectively pull itself through corners, enhancing turn-in, mitigating understeer, and providing unparalleled grip and stability. The combined output of this intricate powertrain is a staggering 573 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque, delivered with an almost seamless surge of propulsion.
Beyond its advanced powertrain, the 2019 Acura NSX boasts an incredibly sophisticated multi-material space frame chassis, engineered for optimal rigidity and lightweighting. The body structure utilizes a combination of aluminum extrusions, castings, and sheet materials, alongside high-strength steel and carbon fiber for critical components like the floor and roof. This meticulous construction results in an exceptionally stiff platform that is crucial for precise handling and effective suspension operation. The double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension systems are finely tuned to exploit this rigidity, offering a sublime balance of ride comfort and track-ready performance. Adaptive dampers are standard, allowing the car to adjust its ride characteristics across various driving modes, further enhancing its versatility.
Aerodynamics play a critical, often understated, role in the NSX’s performance. Every line and contour of its sleek, low-slung body is meticulously sculpted not just for aesthetics but for functional purpose. Numerous strategically placed air intakes, vents, and channels manage airflow to cool the hybrid components, engine, and brakes, while also generating crucial downforce. The complex interplay of the front splitter, side air intakes, rear diffuser, and integrated rear spoiler ensures aerodynamic stability at high speeds, contributing to the NSX’s planted feel. This holistic approach to design ensures that the car remains composed and efficient, whether carving through a winding road or hurtling down a long straight, a testament to Acura’s engineering-first philosophy.
Bringing this prodigious power and advanced chassis to a halt are equally impressive braking components. Standard brakes feature six-piston calipers in the front and four-piston calipers in the rear, gripping ventilated steel rotors. For those seeking ultimate track performance and reduced unsprung weight, an optional carbon-ceramic brake system with larger rotors and enhanced calipers is available. The NSX rides on specially developed high-performance tires, typically Continental ContiSportContact 5P or Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires, mounted on lightweight forged aluminum wheels (19-inch front, 20-inch rear). These tires are specifically engineered to work in harmony with the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system, translating the car’s immense power and torque vectoring capabilities into telepathic levels of grip and driver confidence.
Behind the Wheel: Performance & Experience
Slipping into the cockpit of the 2019 Acura NSX, one is immediately struck by its driver-centric design and exceptional visibility, a hallmark that carries over from the original. However, the experience of driving the second-generation NSX is decidedly modern. The most astonishing aspect is how effortlessly it achieves supercar levels of performance. With a 0-60 mph sprint accomplished in approximately 2.9 seconds and a top speed of 191 mph, the NSX is undeniably brutally quick. Yet, this speed is delivered with such composure and precision that it rarely feels intimidating. The hybrid system’s instant torque fill eliminates any hint of turbo lag, providing a relentless, linear surge of acceleration that is both exhilarating and remarkably easy to manage, empowering the driver to exploit its full potential without fear.
The true magic of the NSX’s driving dynamics lies in its near telepathic grip, largely thanks to the ingenious Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system. As you enter a corner, the front electric motors actively vector torque, independently sending power to the outside front wheel while potentially braking the inside. This effectively pulls the car into the apex, sharpening turn-in, drastically reducing understeer, and allowing for astonishingly high cornering speeds. The feeling is one of profound stability and limitless traction; the NSX simply goes where you point it, almost as if reading your mind. This engineered confidence is a revelation, transforming challenging corners into opportunities for precise execution rather than white-knuckle battles with physics. It inspires a level of trust that few other supercars can match.
Further enhancing the NSX’s versatile driving experience is its Integrated Dynamics System (IDS), offering four distinct modes: Quiet, Sport, Sport+, and Track. In Quiet mode, the car can operate solely on electric power for short distances, offering a serene, almost silent departure. Sport mode is ideal for spirited road driving, balancing comfort and performance. Sport+ sharpens throttle response, firms up the suspension, quickens shifts, and makes the SH-AWD system more aggressive, preparing the car for serious canyon carving. Track mode unleashes the NSX’s full potential, optimizing every parameter for maximum performance, disengaging stability control to allow for controlled oversteer, and delivering the most intense driving experience. This adaptability means the NSX can seamlessly transition from a comfortable daily driver to a formidable track weapon.
While some traditionalists might lament the absence of a screaming naturally aspirated V10 or V12, the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, augmented by its electric motors, produces a distinctive and purposeful soundtrack. It’s not a raw, unrefined bellow, but rather a sophisticated, almost metallic growl that intensifies with revs, accompanied by the subtle whir of the electric motors. The exhaust note is engineered to be present and engaging, particularly in Sport+ and Track modes, without being overly boisterous or fatiguing. This acoustic signature perfectly aligns with the car’s overall character: a blend of precision and power. The emotional connection here might not be born from visceral noise or the fear of impending chaos, but rather from the profound satisfaction of executing every maneuver with surgical accuracy and unwavering confidence.
The interior of the 2019 NSX is a testament to Acura’s commitment to thoughtful design and user experience. It’s a driver-focused cockpit, but one that balances ergonomic efficiency with comfort. The seats offer excellent bolstering for high-G maneuvers while remaining comfortable for long journeys. Critical controls are intuitively placed, and the digital instrument cluster provides clear, configurable information. While the infotainment system might not be as bleeding-edge as some European rivals, it is functional and unobtrusive. Importantly, the NSX maintains excellent outward visibility, a critical factor for confidence whether navigating city streets or attacking a racetrack. Every element of the cabin is designed to facilitate focus and enjoyment, reinforcing the car’s philosophy of empowering the driver through intelligent engineering.
Enthusiast Angle: Mods, Community & Aftermarket
While the Acura NSX might not boast the same sprawling aftermarket as an entry-level sports car or a venerable tuner platform, it has cultivated a dedicated and growing enthusiast community. Owners of the second-generation NSX are typically discerning individuals who appreciate the car’s advanced engineering and unique philosophy, and many seek to personalize or further refine its already exceptional performance. The primary focus for performance upgrades often revolves around extracting more power from the twin-turbo V6. ECU tuning solutions are emerging, allowing owners to safely increase boost pressure and optimize fuel mapping, potentially pushing the combined horsepower figures well beyond the factory 573 hp. This unlocking of latent power allows enthusiasts to tailor the car’s character to their specific preferences, whether for track days or spirited road driving.
Beyond engine tuning, suspension and handling upgrades are a natural progression for NSX owners looking to push the limits even further. While the factory adaptive dampers and SH-AWD system are incredibly capable, some enthusiasts opt for aftermarket coilover systems or upgraded sway bars to achieve an even more aggressive track setup or a particular ride feel. These modifications can provide finer control over ride height, damping rates, and roll stiffness, allowing for meticulous chassis tuning. However, modifying a car with such a deeply integrated hybrid and all-wheel-drive system requires careful consideration, as altering one component can have unforeseen effects on the carefully calibrated balance of the entire vehicle. Specialized shops and experienced tuners are crucial for navigating these complexities and ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Aesthetic modifications also play a significant role in the NSX enthusiast scene. Given the car’s relatively understated styling compared to some of its more flamboyant European counterparts, many owners choose to enhance its visual appeal with carbon fiber aero kits, including front spoilers, side skirts, and rear diffusers. These additions not only give the NSX a more aggressive stance but can also provide functional aerodynamic benefits. Lightweight forged wheels, often in custom finishes, are another popular upgrade, reducing unsprung mass and adding a personalized touch. Interior accents, custom badging, and even bespoke liveries allow owners to express their individuality and make their NSX truly unique, creating a strong visual presence that matches its technological prowess.
The NSX owner community, though smaller than some, is highly passionate and tightly knit. Online forums, dedicated Facebook groups, and enthusiast websites serve as hubs for sharing knowledge, discussing modifications, and organizing meetups and track events. Owners often bond over their shared appreciation for the car’s unique blend of performance and engineering, celebrating its status as an underdog in the supercar world. These communities provide invaluable resources, from technical advice on maintenance and upgrades to recommendations for reputable tuners and part suppliers. The sense of camaraderie among NSX owners is palpable, united by a mutual respect for a car that dares to do things differently, challenging conventions and proving that innovation can be as exciting as tradition.
Looking to the future, the second-generation NSX’s highly advanced hybrid powertrain and sophisticated electronics present both challenges and exciting opportunities for the aftermarket. As technology progresses, so too will the understanding and ability of tuners to unlock even more potential from these complex systems. The NSX could serve as a valuable platform for developing cutting-edge tuning methodologies for future electrified performance vehicles. Its relatively limited production numbers also suggest potential for long-term collectibility, particularly for well-maintained or uniquely modified examples. For the discerning enthusiast, the NSX isn’t just a car; it’s a statement about the evolution of performance, a canvas for technological exploration, and a testament to the enduring appeal of intelligent engineering.
How It Compares
In the fiercely competitive realm of supercars, the 2019 Acura NSX occupies a truly unique position, often finding itself measured against a diverse array of formidable rivals. When pitted against traditional supercars like the Audi R8 V10, Porsche 911 Turbo S, or McLaren 570S, the NSX stands out primarily due to its sophisticated hybrid powertrain and Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system. While the R8 offers a glorious naturally aspirated V10 and the 911 Turbo S delivers immense turbocharged punch with its own excellent AWD, the NSX provides a different kind of thrust – an instant, electrically augmented surge that feels seamless and almost boundless. It delivers supercar-level performance with a level of daily usability and confidence that often surpasses its more dramatic European counterparts, making it a compelling alternative for those who prioritize precision and repeatable speed over raw, unbridled theatrics.
When comparing the NSX to other hybrid performance machines, its value proposition becomes even clearer. While hypercars like the Ferrari SF90 Stradale or the Porsche 918 Spyder (an earlier, highly exclusive hypercar) also feature hybrid powertrains, they operate in an entirely different price bracket and performance stratosphere. The NSX, while still an exotic, positions itself as a more attainable hybrid supercar, demonstrating that cutting-edge electrification can be integrated into a high-performance package without the stratospheric price tags of hypercars. It offers a taste of next-generation performance technology to a broader segment of enthusiasts, showcasing how electric motors can enhance, rather than just supplement, the internal combustion engine to create a truly integrated and superior driving experience. It’s a bridge between traditional supercars and the hyper-exclusive electrified elite.
Perhaps the most challenging comparison for the second-generation NSX is against its own legendary predecessor. The original NSX, revered for its analog purity, lightweight construction, and sublime naturally aspirated V6, set an almost impossible standard. The 2019 model is a stark contrast, embracing complexity with its twin-turbo V6, three electric motors, and advanced SH-AWD. While some purists argue the new car lacks the raw, unfiltered emotional connection of the original, it’s crucial to recognize that both vehicles were groundbreaking in their respective eras. The first NSX proved that a supercar could be reliable and usable; the second NSX demonstrates that a supercar can be incredibly fast and precise through the intelligent application of complex technology. They represent different philosophies of performance, yet both embody Honda/Acura’s relentless pursuit of engineering excellence and driver empowerment.
The value proposition of the Acura NSX is a complex topic often debated among enthusiasts. Its original MSRP placed it firmly in contention with established European rivals, yet it lacked the historical cachet or “exotic” badge appeal of a Ferrari or Lamborghini. However, for those who look beyond brand snobbery, the NSX offers an incredible amount of advanced technology, bespoke engineering, and world-class performance for its price. It appeals to a buyer who values substance over superficiality, appreciating the meticulous development and innovative solutions packed into every component. The resale market has seen fluctuations, but for a knowledgeable enthusiast, a well-maintained 2019 NSX represents a unique blend of performance, reliability, and cutting-edge tech that, arguably, punches above its weight class in terms of engineering investment.
Ultimately, the 2019 Acura NSX carved out its own niche in the supercar landscape, appealing to a specific type of discerning buyer. It isn’t trying to be the loudest, most dramatic, or most overtly emotional supercar; instead, it aims to be the most intelligent, the most capable, and the most confidence-inspiring. Its market position is that of a technological tour de force, a statement piece from Acura about its engineering prowess and vision for the future of performance. It challenges the conventional wisdom that emotion must come from imperfection or difficulty, instead proposing that true excitement can be found in mastery, precision, and the seamless integration of advanced systems. It’s a supercar for the modern era, for the driver who appreciates what’s beneath the skin as much as the thrill of the drive itself.
The Evolution of Excitement: Redefining the Supercar Narrative
So, we return to our initial question: Is the 2019 Acura NSX the smartest supercar ever made, or the least emotional? The answer, like the car itself, is nuanced and deeply intertwined with the evolution of automotive performance. The NSX doesn’t simply trade raw emotion for clinical intelligence; rather, it redefines what emotional connection means in the context of a high-tech machine. The thrill isn’t derived from fighting the car, but from the profound satisfaction of mastering it. It’s the confidence to push harder, to brake later, to turn in sharper, knowing that the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system and sophisticated chassis are working in perfect harmony to make you a better, faster driver. This engineered confidence breeds its own unique and deeply satisfying form of excitement, one rooted in precision and control rather than chaos and apprehension.
In retrospect, the 2019 Acura NSX will undoubtedly be seen as a pivotal vehicle in automotive history. It wasn’t the first hybrid performance car, but it was one of the most significant and accessible examples to demonstrate the seamless integration of combustion and electric power for a holistic performance advantage. It foreshadowed a future where electrification would not only enhance efficiency but fundamentally transform driving dynamics, adding layers of control and immediate torque delivery previously unimaginable. The NSX paved the way for a new generation of supercars and hypercars that now routinely employ hybrid technology, validating Acura’s bold vision and proving that this complex path was indeed a viable and exhilarating direction for high-performance vehicles.
For the modern automotive enthusiast, the NSX offers a refreshing departure from the conventional supercar narrative. It appeals to those who appreciate engineering artistry, technological innovation, and a more cerebral approach to speed. This isn’t a car designed to be a poster on a teenager’s wall based purely on its sound or dramatic looks, but rather a machine to be driven, understood, and appreciated for its immense capabilities. It speaks to a segment of the enthusiast community that values the pursuit of perfection, the elegance of intelligent design, and the tangible benefits of advanced technology applied to the driving experience. It’s for the driver who wants to feel connected to the road and confident in their machine, not constantly battling it.
Ultimately, the 2019 Acura NSX stands as a testament to the idea that excitement, like technology, is constantly evolving. It proves that the supercar experience doesn’t have to be defined by discomfort or the constant threat of danger. Instead, it can be an intensely rewarding journey of precision, mastery, and effortless speed. Its true genius lies not just in its impressive specifications or its groundbreaking hybrid system, but in its holistic approach to performance, creating a driving experience that is both exhilarating and deeply satisfying. The NSX challenges us to rethink our definition of what makes a supercar truly great, ultimately affirming that the smartest supercar can, in fact, be one of the most emotionally engaging, just in a profoundly modern way.
