Acura Automobiles: 2017 Acura NSX Press Kit

Every element of the interior design enhances the New Sports eXperience for the NSX driver. The next‑generation NSX respects the fundamental, driver‑centered interior concept of the original NSX with attention to enhanced visibility, driver support and comfort, ergonomics and simple driver interfaces presented with elegant materials and design.

“The interior of the new Acura NSX is highlighted by what we call ‘Interwoven Dynamic’ design,” said Acura NSX Interior Design Project Leader Michael Cao. “It combines the best attributes of intuitive, easy-to-use functionality and superior ergonomics with a clean and modern design aesthetic worthy of a next-generation supercar. It’s the ultimate testimony to the beautiful simplicity of form following function.”

Visibility

The steering wheel, compact meter cluster and low dashboard create a very low cowl that, together with the narrow A-pillars and offset side mirrors, provides both forward and lateral unobstructed views during cornering that support precise clipping of the driver’s desired apex.

The new NSX employs a new technology to maximize driver forward visibility: three-dimensionally bent and quenched (3DQ) ultra-high-strength steel (UHSS) A-pillars. These slim yet strong A-pillars offer exceptional strength and roof-crush protection while providing a panoramic view of the road ahead. The new NSX A-pillars are even narrower than those on the original NSX.

Rendering of view from inside the NSX

Instrument Panel and Center Console Design

The instrument panel combines authentic refined materials and surface textures with an easy‑to‑use and ergonomically designed “simple sports interface” system for intuitive and stress-free operation and functionality. Both the instrument panel and center console feature hand-crafted materials, including genuine leather atop the instrument panel, faux-suede Alcantara across the top of the driver’s gauge cluster hood and additional Alcantara trimming for the center console and glovebox.

The critical surfaces of the center console and doors that envelope the driver and passenger have been fortified with additional padding for optimal knee and elbow comfort and support, which is particularly helpful for driver stability in spirited driving. Many competitors utilize carbon fiber or other hard surfaces that can cause discomfort. Interior door and center console surfaces work in conjunction with the seat, to provide lateral support for the driver’s hips and legs.

Sport Seats

Attractive as well as structurally rigid and lightweight, the seats in the new NSX are designed to offer higher comfort and support levels than those in competing high-performance vehicles. Seat materials, such as leather and faux-suede Alcantara, were carefully selected to help provide the NSX driver with dynamic driving support and freedom of movement for spirited driving.

The seats include tall bolsters with integrated support structures for improved lateral hold and freedom of shoulder movement. The Alcantara center panels in the seat bottom and seat back reduce sliding, while the leather outer surfaces improve ease of entering and exiting the vehicle. To further facilitate ingress and egress, the optional driver’s power sport seat automatically moves rearward when the ignition is turned off.

The seat bottom structure is composed of stamped aluminum for reduced vehicle weight. Both the seat and seatback are of sturdy construction to hold the driver and passenger in place and for improved longevity and crash performance. The headrest is designed to accommodate a helmet for track outings.

Steering Wheel

As the centerpiece of the driver’s tactile and dynamic driving experience, the ergonomic, seamlessly‑wrapped steering wheel of the NSX provides superior grip, comfort and control. It has been designed to provide man-machine synergy between the driver and the car.

  • The leather-wrapped steering wheel has a stitchless design to maximize the NSX driver’s connection to the vehicle and the road. The seamless, uninterrupted surface of the wheel helps to provide the driver with predictable, linear feedback.
  • The shape of the steering wheel optimally supports two hand positions: nine and three o’clock and ten and two o’clock. The steering wheel shape is complemented by extended‑length paddle shifters.
  • The flattened top section of the steering wheel offers improved forward visibility, and the flattened bottom enhances driver leg space.
  • The side surfaces of the steering wheel were sculpted to maximum ergonomic benefit through correlation between NSX pro drivers and interior designers.
  • The steering wheel inner frame is composed of magnesium for low inertia and maximum rigidity to support crisp handling.

Steering-Wheel Mounted Controls

Controls mounted on the steering wheel put critical features and functions at the driver’s fingertips. The audio volume wheel, source selection button and phone controls are on the left of the steering wheel, and the Multi-Information Display (MID) controls and cruise control functions are on the right.

Simple Sports Interface

The driver’s instrument cluster and center console have been designed to enhance the driving experience with intuitive layout and simple operation, creating a “simple sports interface” for the driver.  

Audio and Connectivity

The new NSX makes it easy for the driver to operate the navigation and audio functions while focusing on driving. An advanced, user-friendly suite of audio and connectivity technologies is controlled by a single, 7-in. capacitive touchscreen. The Display Audio system is supplemented by steering wheel-mounted controls to put access to features and functions at the driver’s fingertips.

ELS Studio Audio System

An optional Technology Package includes the ELS Studio Audio System, which was designed, engineered and manufactured in collaboration with Grammy and Emmy award-winning recording engineer and music producer Elliot Sheiner.

Dynamic Thin-Film Transistor Gauge Cluster

Front and center of the instrument panel is an 8.0-in. Dynamic Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) gauge cluster, which is overlaid with a digital analog tachometer dial that resembles a traditional large analog tachometer. Within the tachometer is the digital speedometer readout and full-color MID. The TFT center meter is flanked by digital gauges displaying the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system motor’s state of charge/assist (left) and the battery’s state of charge (right), with an analog engine coolant temperature gauge on the left and a fuel gauge on the right.

TFT instrument cluster shown in Sport+ mode

Multi-Information Display

The customizable MID displays a wide variety of functions and information and is controlled by a thumb dial on the right side of the steering wheel. The MID also incorporates the Acura Maintenance Minder system, which alerts the driver of upcoming maintenance needs via the MID. Should a fault occur, specific warning information will appear on the MID.

MID information categories include:

  • Integrated Dynamics System mode
  • Elapsed time
  • Average speed
  • Average fuel economy
  • Instant fuel economy
  • Estimated fuel range
  • Maintenance Minder
  • Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
  • Engine oil life
  • Engine oil level
  • Turn-by-turn navigation (with Technology Package featuring embedded Acura Satellite-Linked Navigation System)
  • Turn-by-turn navigation for integrated Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Transmission Information Display

The TFT gauge cluster relays important information to the driver relating to the current state of transmission operation in a clear and concise graphical format, depending on the transmission’s mode of operation:

  • Auto – Signals the driver that the car is currently in Automatic mode
  • D-Paddle – Signals that although Auto is still selected, the car is in a temporary Manual mode, with the driver manually selecting gears via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The display returns to Auto when manual shift activity stops for a certain period of time
  • Manual – The meter displays only the gear selected (e.g. “3”) when the car is in fully Manual mode

Integrated Dynamic System Meter Modes

The driver’s center meter is tied into the Integrated Dynamics System to provide a visual complement to the customizable dynamic and auditory elements of the NSX driving experience. When the driver selects a new Integrated Dynamics System mode using the dynamic mode dial, the MID displays a graphical representation of the Integrated Dynamics System component systems, along with a color to match the mode.

  • In Quiet mode, the meter takes on a cool blue glow.
  • In Sport mode, the meter takes on a grey hue with red highlights.
  • In Sport+ and Track modes, the tachometer takes on a yellow hue with red highlights, and the tachometer “rotates” to place the lower and upper rpm limits at the six o’clock and three o’clock positions.

As engine speed increases during driving, the outer ring of the tachometer will flash red when the engine speed exceeds 7,000 rpm to alert the driver that they are approaching the 7,500 rpm redline.

Interior Illumination

The driver’s gauge cluster and Display Audio touchscreen illuminate upon vehicle entry and progressively brighten to full strength when the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD power unit is started. The display screen of the driver’s gauge cluster presents a brightly colored typeface that is easy to read against a black background. Additional interior illumination includes twin LED map lights in the overhead console and blue-tinted LED lighting for the foot wells and center console.

Center Console

The center console contains the following elements:

  • Display Audio system interface with 7-in. capacitive touchscreen
  • Dual-Zone climate control
  • Integrated Dynamics System control dial
  • Three-position heated seat controls
  • Electronic gear selector
  • Electric parking brake
  • Storage compartments

NSX center console

Display Audio System Interface

A 7-in., high-resolution capacitive touchscreen is included as part of the standard equipment package.
When the driver first opens the door, the Display Audio system touchscreen illuminates. A custom NSX animation displays when the vehicle is started.

Climate Control System

Every Acura NSX includes a dual-zone automatic climate control system with humidity control and air filtration. The system enables the driver and passenger to pre-select their preferred temperature settings, and it automatically adjusts volumetric airflow and temperature to maintain a proper and pleasant climate inside the vehicle. With its micron air filtration system, the dual-zone automatic climate control system can filter particulate matter as small as 0.3 microns.

Push-button defrost helps to clear up fogged or icy windows quickly and conveniently for improved outward visibility. A proper and comfortable climate can help the driver keep their concentration and reactions sharp for improved safety and driving performance.

Humidity control improves the vehicle’s interior air quality and occupant comfort. It uses a sensor within the cabin to detect temperature and moisture levels and regulates airflow to maintain a comfortable level of humidity.

Dynamic Mode Dial

Effortless transition between driving modes is made through an elegant rotary dial. The large Dynamic Mode dial of the Integrated Dynamics System is located at the base of the instrument panel and center console juncture. The driver can easily reach the dial to change driving modes (Quiet, Sport, Sport+ and Track) without taking their eyes off the road.

Electronic Gear Selector

The Electronic Gear Selector enables the driver to select a vehicle gear setting with the simple touch of a button.

  • Park (P) – Pressing the button places the vehicle in Park (indicator light illuminates red).
  • Reverse (R) – Pulling back engages the Reverse gear (indicator light illuminates green) and rearview camera .
  • Neutral (N) – Pressing the button places the transmission in Neutral (indicator light illuminates red).
  • Drive (D/M) – Pressing the button puts the vehicle in Drive; pressing it again toggles the system to Manual; pressing the button again puts the transmission in Manual mode (indicator light illuminates green).

Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold

The NSX adds the convenience of an electric parking brake, enabling the driver to engage the parking brake by simply pulling on a rocker switch located on the center console.
The parking brake also includes the convenience of Automatic Brake Hold, which, once activated, can maintain the rear brake hold even after the brake pedal has been released.

Multi-Function Center Console with Interior Storage

The new NSX offers convenient storage areas for both driver and passenger.

  • Base of the center console – Inset front pocket
  • Top of the center console between the seats – Additional storage pocket designed to accommodate a smart phone
  • Rear of the center console – Roomy storage box containing a 1.5-amp USB interface port that can sync a smartphone to the Display Audio touchscreen for operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
    • A phone cord management device is located underneath the rubber mat that lines the bottom of the rear storage box
  • Glovebox – Includes a 1.0-amp USB interface port that can be used for audio devices, such as MP3 players

Interior Features

Key interior features of the all-new Acura NSX include:

Seating and Trim

  • Perforated Milano Leather and Alcantara-trimmed heated and 4-way adjustable manual sport seats
  • Optional 4-way power sport seats with power-adjustable lumbar; semi-aniline leather/Alcantara or semi-aniline full leather trim
  • Leather-trimmed instrument panel
  • Leather-trimmed door panels

Steering

  • Leather-wrapped sport steering wheel (available carbon fiber trim)
  • Illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls for Cruise, Audio, Phone, and Multi-Information Display
  • Tilt and telescopic steering column

Controls

  • Push-button start
  • Sound control
  • Active Sound Control
  • Intake sound control
  • Dynamic TFT gauge cluster
  • 7-in. capacitive touchscreen Display Audio system
  • Electronic cruise control
  • HomeLink remote system

Interior Illumination

  • LED interior ambient lighting
  • Rear cargo area light

Climate

  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Rear engine compartment window defroster

Power Features

  • Power windows
  • Power side mirrors
  • Power door locks
  • Power remote-operated fuel filler door
  • 12-volt power outlet
  • 1.0-amp USB interface port in glovebox
  • 1.5-amp USB interface port in rear console storage box of center console
  • Frameless automatic dimming rearview mirror

Storage

  • Center console storage

Rear Cargo Area

The rear cargo area of the new NSX is pleasantly spacious and versatile for a mid-engine high‑performance supercar. With 4.4 cubic feet of space and 100 lb. of capacity, the NSX trunk can conveniently accommodate weekend luggage for two or even a golf bag—all easily accessed through the rear cargo area’s wide opening. A set of four rear cargo area tie-down anchors are included to help secure items, and an accessory cargo net for the rear area is also available.

The trunk can be opened using the remote key fob, a button located on the driver’s interior door or by depressing a discretely located button under the trailing edge of the trunk lid. A valet lock-out switch is located in the glovebox. The driver can activate the valet lock out switch and lock the glovebox manually to prevent access to the locked rear cargo area.

NSX Exterior Design

Staying true to its Precision Crafted Performance DNA, the “Interwoven Dynamic” exterior design of the new NSX integrates supercar aesthetics with supercar performance.

The overall sleek yet muscular stance conveys a sense of purpose and power. Remarkably compact overhangs foretell the design and engineering team’s exemplary packaging of mechanical and electrical components.

“The idea that form follows function is fundamental to Acura design, and this philosophy is interwoven in the core of NSX, which is why our exterior concept is called ‘Interwoven Dynamic,” said Acura NSX Exterior Design Project Leader Michelle Christensen. “The NSX is a visual expression of beautiful design and performance working together, influencing every decision we made—every surface, every millimeter, every design element of the new NSX is focused on enhancing performance.”

Floating C-Pillars

The floating C-pillars, forward of the rear fenders, integrated into the exterior architecture are as purposeful as they are distinctive, supporting efficient body‑side airflow.

The C‑pillars extend outward from the sloping rear roofline so that, as air flows down the sides of the vehicle, it is efficiently rerouted into the side-mounted engine air intakes.

The floating C-pillars also aid engine cooling by creating a negative pressure zone around the rear heat exhaust vents, along the outside edges of the rear windscreen, improving the efficiency of heat exhaustion. The portion of air that flows down the sides of the vehicle toward the outside sections of the buttress is stabilized to reduce turbulence as it passes with minimal disruption over the rear fenders and spoiler.

Flush-Mounted Automatic Power Pop-out Door Handles

The flush-fitting exterior door handles are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, providing a welcoming “handshake” with the driver or passenger as they extend outward from the door upon approach while at the same time supporting clean airflow along the body side.

Smart Entry with keyless access is enabled by proximity sensors tied to the remote key fob and capacitive touch sensors in the exterior door handles. The proximity sensors actuate the door handles upon approach, extending them outward for easy operation. Grasping either door handle activates a capacitive touch sensor, which unlocks the doors. Once the handle is released, it returns to the flush position. The doors can also be unlocked by pressing the unlock button on the remote key fob, which simultaneously extends the driver’s door handle and unlocks the driver’s door. A double push of the button extends both door handles and unlocks both doors. From outside the vehicle, the doors can be locked using a button positioned just forward of the door handle or by pressing the lock button on the remote key fob.

Even though the exterior door handle mechanism relies on electronics to function properly, it is not possible to be locked out of the NSX due to an onboard power failure. The door handle can be operated manually without electrical assistance. Automatic door handle extension can be disabled by a switch in the glovebox for shipping or long-term storage.

The trunk is accessed by means of the remote key fob, by a button located on the driver’s interior door panel, or by a button discretely located under the trailing edge of the trunk lid. In the event of a loss of power, both the driver’s door and the trunk also feature a traditional key cylinder for manual locking and unlocking of the doors and trunk.

Supercar Wiper and Washer System

The wiper and washer system, engineered specifically for the new NSX, has been designed to operate effectively even at maximum vehicle speeds. Tested in the wind tunnel at airflow equivalent of over 180 mph, the spoiler-shaped wipers have been designed to generate downforce on the wiper blade, while the speed-controlled wiper motor maintains a constant wiping speed, ensuring highly effective wiper performance in all driving conditions. Likewise, the windshield washer system utilizes a three‑nozzle system for superior coverage in all conditions and driving environments, including high‑speed travel.

In a further nod to improving forward visibility and providing an unobstructed view of the road, the windshield wiper arms are placed as low as possible at the base of the windshield and lower cowl section so that they remain completely out of the driver’s view when not in operation. Placing the wipers below the hood also helps mitigate wind noise.

Body-Colored Aerodynamic Side Mirrors

Featuring a two-tone paint scheme that accentuates the NSX’s low-slung look and wide stance, the powered side mirrors include a thin blade arm to minimize air disturbance. This blade design reduces local airflow noise, prevents disruption of air flowing to the side intakes and minimizes aerodynamic drag. Like the ultra-high-strength A-pillars, the thin blade arm design improves visibility when parking and cornering. Each mirror housing includes light‑emitting diode (LED) turn signal.

LED Lighting

The exterior design of the all-new NSX includes a variety of LED lighting features, including Acura Jewel Eye LED headlights, LED daytime running lights (DRL) and LED taillights.

Acura Jewel Eye LED Headlights

Acura Jewel Eye LED headlights are a standard feature on every NSX. Designed to complement the aggressive low and wide exterior appearance, each headlight assembly contains six individual LEDs. The low beam setting uses the four outer LEDs, and all six LEDs are used when the high beams are activated.

The wavelength of the LED is close to the human eye’s luminosity curve. With their streamlined shape and lower electrical power consumption, the NSX Jewel Eye LED headlights also aid fuel efficiency and have a longer operational life compared to traditional halogen or high‑intensity discharge lamps.

LED Daytime Running Lights

The NSX LED daytime running lights (DRL) use the top half of each LED headlamp that makes up the Acura Jewel Eye LED headlight assembly. LED position lights are located just beneath the LED headlamps. The LED position lights are composed of a series of small and tightly packed LEDs that run in a thin continuous line along the bottom of the headlight assembly. LED lighting is also used for the turn signals at both the front and rear of the vehicle.

This integrated LED-based lighting system creates a design aesthetic that complements the smooth, flowing and streamlined character lines of the vehicle, rather than calling individual attention to the daytime running lights themselves. Most importantly, the DRL design featured on the new NSX provides vivid illumination that can be easily seen by pedestrians or other drivers during daytime hours.

LED Taillights

Similar in character to the Acura Jewel Eye LED headlights at the front of the vehicle, the LED taillights have a compact and narrow appearance with a uniquely freeform shape. The LED taillight array starts off wider toward the center portion of the rear of the vehicle, then gently tapers as it wraps around toward the outside corners and rear fender arches.

NSX LED tailights

NSX Exterior Finish and Paint

The NSX paint team at the innovative new Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) targeted the highest levels of paint quality with reduced environmental impact, consistent with their target of “next‑generation quality and craftsmanship.”

NSX Body Panel Paint Process

  • Body panels enter the paint process attached to a specially designed fixture that locates the panels in a position and angle similar to how they are oriented once installed on the vehicle.
  • To insure color harmony between multiple substrates, a specialty primer is applied to all body panels. This provides a common base to start the color application process.
  • Depending on the final color desired, a varying number of coats is applied.
  • Two layers of a high-quality/long-lasting clear coat are then applied.
  • Body panels are then hand finished before receiving an additional two layers of clear coat.
  • In the case of Andaro paint, several additional layers of nano-particle clear coat are applied during the painting process.
  • Once cured, the panels undergo careful inspection in a newly designed inspection booth utilizing high-intensity LED lighting to help associates identify and address even the smallest irregularities.

World-class NSX paint quality

Specifications