Last year, under the scorching Atlanta sun, I had the rare privilege of experiencing the Acura NSX, a car that redefines the boundaries of speed and technology. Having spent time with both the original 1991 NSX and the latest iteration, the evolution and sheer performance of the 2022 Acura NSX, especially the Type S variant, left an indelible mark. The 2022 model year marked the final chapter for the second-generation NSX, culminating in the potent and meticulously engineered Type S. Let’s delve into the specifications that make this modern supercar a true marvel of automotive engineering.
Underside view of the Acura NSX, highlighting its aerodynamic components.
Engine and Powertrain: The Heart of the Hybrid Beast
At the core of the 2022 Acura NSX lies a longitudinally mounted, twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine. This powerhouse alone generates an impressive 500 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. For the Type S model, enhancements borrowed from the GT3 Evo program elevate these figures, resulting in 520 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. The standard turbos deliver up to 15.2 PSI of boost, while the Type S turbos push this to 16.1 PSI.
But the NSX is not just about raw gasoline power; it’s a sophisticated hybrid supercar. Integrated into the powertrain are three electric motors. Two high-output electric motors, positioned at the front, independently drive each front wheel, contributing 36 horsepower each and enabling Acura’s Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. A third, more powerful direct-drive electric motor, rated at 47 horsepower, is located at the rear, working in conjunction with the V6 engine to drive the rear wheels.
This intricate hybrid system draws power from a 1.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The combined output for the standard 2022 Acura NSX is a formidable 573 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque. The Type S takes it a step further, boasting a total system output of 600 horsepower and 492 lb-ft of torque, making it the most potent NSX ever produced. This advanced hybrid system not only boosts power but also provides instant torque for lightning-fast acceleration and enhances handling through torque vectoring.
Acceleration and Speed: Unleashing Thrilling Performance
The culmination of this hybrid powertrain is breathtaking performance. The 2022 Acura NSX, in both standard and Type S guise, delivers supercar-level acceleration. Acura estimates a 0 to 60 mph sprint in a mere 2.9 seconds for both models. While the raw 0-60 time remains the same, the increased power and optimized performance of the Type S translate to enhanced track capabilities and an even more visceral driving experience. Indeed, the Type S shaved two seconds off the standard NSX’s lap time at the Suzuka Circuit, a testament to its refined performance. The top speed for the Acura NSX is an impressive 191 mph, placing it firmly in supercar territory.
Despite the Type S weighing slightly more than the standard NSX (3,960 pounds versus 3,945 pounds), the performance enhancements more than compensate for the marginal weight difference. The NSX’s acceleration is not just about numbers; it’s about the visceral sensation of being propelled forward with incredible force, changing one’s perception of speed itself.
Drivetrain and Handling: Precision and Control
The 2022 Acura NSX features a 9-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that provides lightning-fast gear changes, contributing to the car’s rapid acceleration and overall responsiveness. The aforementioned Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system is crucial to the NSX’s exceptional handling. By independently controlling torque distribution to the front wheels, SH-AWD enhances cornering agility, stability, and traction in various driving conditions.
Drivers can tailor the NSX’s driving dynamics through the Integrated Dynamics System, which offers selectable driving modes, including Quiet, Sport, Sport+, and Track. Quiet mode prioritizes electric-only driving at lower speeds, ideal for neighborhood driving. Sport and Sport+ modes progressively sharpen throttle response, transmission mapping, and suspension settings for more engaging on-road performance. Track mode unleashes the full potential of the NSX for maximum performance on a race circuit. The handling is described as confidence-inspiring, offering a “rides on rails” feeling without sacrificing driver engagement.
Exterior Design: Aerodynamic Form and Function
The exterior design of the 2022 Acura NSX is a blend of aerodynamic efficiency and striking aesthetics. Inspired by fighter jets, the NSX boasts sharp lines, sculpted surfaces, and functional air intakes and vents, all contributing to optimal downforce, cooling, and airflow management. The “jewel-eye” LED headlights not only provide excellent illumination but also contribute to the car’s distinctive and aggressive front fascia.
A signature design element is the floating C-pillar, a styling cue shared with other modern supercars, adding to the NSX’s visual appeal and aerodynamic profile. The entire design is a cohesive package where form follows function, ensuring both stunning looks and high-performance capabilities.
Interior Design and Features: Driver-Focused and Functional
The interior of the 2022 Acura NSX is designed with a clear focus on the driver. The cockpit is uncluttered and ergonomic, providing excellent forward visibility thanks to the innovative A-pillar design. Materials like leather and Alcantara are used throughout the cabin, offering a premium and sporty feel. The steering wheel is designed for optimal grip, often featuring carbon fiber accents, and the instrumentation is a combination of digital and analog elements, providing essential driving information clearly and concisely.
While functional and well-appointed, the interior prioritizes the driving experience over opulent luxury. A notable point is the infotainment system, which, while functional, utilizes an older Honda/Acura interface that may feel somewhat dated compared to contemporary systems. However, the focus remains on providing essential controls and information within easy reach, ensuring minimal distraction for the driver.
Chassis and Construction: Advanced Engineering
The 2022 Acura NSX utilizes an aluminum-intensive space frame as its foundation, providing exceptional rigidity and lightweight construction. Body panels are crafted from a multi-material mix, including aluminum and Sheet Molding Composite (SMC), a high-strength composite material. Steel and carbon fiber are also strategically employed in the chassis construction, optimizing strength and weight distribution.
A particularly noteworthy engineering achievement is the three-dimensionally bent and quenched A-pillars. This innovative process allows for incredibly thin A-pillars without compromising structural integrity, significantly enhancing frontal visibility – a crucial aspect in a high-performance car. Acura claims a 36 percent improvement in frontal visibility compared to the “next-best supercar” they evaluated, and even better than the original NSX. This attention to detail in construction reflects the NSX’s commitment to both performance and driver-focused design.
Pricing and Production: A Limited Masterpiece
The 2022 Acura NSX started at a base price of $169,500, excluding options and destination charges. As the final year of production for the second-generation NSX, the 2022 model year, particularly the Type S variant, represents a limited and highly sought-after piece of automotive history. Production of the Type S was limited to just 350 units globally, with only 300 allocated for the United States, making it an exclusive and collectible supercar. For those seeking to own a piece of Acura’s engineering prowess and supercar legacy, the 2022 NSX Type S stands as a fitting and exhilarating finale.
Conclusion: A Supercar Defined by Specs and Spirit
The 2022 Acura Nsx Specs tell a story of innovation, performance, and meticulous engineering. From its potent twin-turbo hybrid powertrain to its advanced chassis and aerodynamic design, every aspect of the NSX is crafted to deliver a thrilling and sophisticated driving experience. While production has concluded, the legacy of the second-generation NSX, especially the Type S, remains as a testament to Acura’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology and performance. For enthusiasts and collectors alike, the 2022 Acura NSX stands as a modern supercar masterpiece, defined not just by its impressive specifications, but by the exhilarating and drama-free driving experience it offers.
