A Human-Centric Supercar

“The first-generation NSX demonstrated to the world what a human-centric supercar is,” says Satoshi Minakami, head of NSX development at Honda R&D Co., Ltd. “At the time, people questioned the concept of a supercar that anyone could drive, but looking back, the first-generation NSX was precisely that kind of car – one you could hop into and enjoy driving.” He added, “Supercars today have become much more accessible, so when you consider that the NSX was achieving this 30 years ago, it truly offered a new sports experience.”

The second generation arrived in 2016. While inheriting the human-fitting, human-centric supercar philosophy of the first-generation NSX, it incorporated electrification technology to “provide a new experience and new value unlike anything before.”



Its key technology is SPORT HYBRID SH-AWD. The synergy of the engine and electric motors delivers acceleration feel and responsiveness that are difficult to achieve with an engine alone. In terms of handling, Minakami noted, “The result is a car with sharp responsiveness and an on-the-rails sensation. However, the development of the NSX does not stop here; it is not yet complete. The NSX must constantly evolve with the times. That is its mission and destiny. In particular, Honda aims to evolve the joy of driving with the NSX, which is why we developed the 2019 model.”

He further explained the rationale behind the improvements: “It’s not just about being a supercar that anyone can drive, but about enhancing the sense of wonder and enjoyment associated with cars, making people want to drive them again.”

Evolutional NSX

The 2019 model, dubbed the “Evolutional NSX,” builds upon the human-centric supercar concept, refining both dynamism and design.

In essence, while adhering to the concepts of the first and second generations, the goal was to further enhance the driver-car unity, push the limits, and improve controllability. As a symbol of this enhanced performance, the design has been evolved to express individuality. “Combining these three elements results in the New SPORTS Experience, the Evolutional NSX of the 2019 model,” he stated.

Regarding the improved driver-car unity, Minakami explained, “We first focused on stabilizing the car’s posture during straight-line driving and cornering. We aimed for beautiful cornering trajectories that are also easy to control. To achieve this, we decided to reinforce the chassis, starting with the tires.” Specifically, the NSX is equipped with specially tuned Continental SportContact 6 tires, featuring larger outer block rigidity and a unique compound to enhance maximum lateral force.



In terms of stabilizing the car’s posture, attention was paid to roll, a sensation highly sensitive to human perception. By increasing the rigidity of the front and rear stabilizers, the roll posture was refined. To improve stability, including exit performance from corners, the rigidity of the rear control arm bushings and hubs was also enhanced to ensure proper load transfer to the rear.

After addressing these hardware aspects, the control parameters for various systems—SPORT HYBRID SH-AWD, active damper system, VSA, and electric power steering—were reviewed. “We proactively re-examined how the control systems intervene during driver operation. This allows drivers to enjoy the pleasure of precise control in each of the four driving modes, from Quiet Mode to Track Mode,” he said.

Minakami described his driving impression: “From the moment you start moving, the car feels flat and the ride comfort is excellent, with superb damping. Yet, during cornering, the front end points precisely where you intend. Furthermore, the rear end is properly loaded, allowing for confident acceleration out of the turn.” He emphasized the car's high level of refinement.

The Return of Orange

Regarding the design evolution, Minakami stated, “Lower and wider. We wanted to clearly convey the car’s low-slung stance, so we began by making the front grille the same color as the body to emphasize its low and wide appearance.” He continued, “To maintain its presence as a supercar, we gave a gloss finish to the front and rear mesh parts. For models with the carbon package, we aimed to enhance the texture by applying a gloss finish to the carbon as well.”

The interior now offers a full-leather, all-red option, designed to evoke excitement and enhance the premium feel. Additionally, an indigo specification, combining leather and Alcantara, has been added. “We want to offer customers a wider range of choices, including an interior space with a deep, refined blue aesthetic,” he explained.



The signature color for the 2019 model is “Thermal Orange Pearl.” “This is a modern interpretation of the ‘Imola Orange Pearl’ from the previous generation. We aimed for a solid feel with high saturation and brightness to express the more exciting aspects of the NSX. This pearl finish creates subtle shading depending on the light, clearly defining the car’s shape,” he explained.

Minakami expressed his confidence in the color: “It’s a highly impressive color that doesn’t become tiresome, and I believe it perfectly represents this car. I’m confident that users in Japan will also appreciate it.”

The 2019 model continues to be built to order, with delivery times ranging from six months to a year. An impression video featuring racing driver Takuma Sato is also available on the website (https://www.honda.co.jp/NSX/).