Used 2017 Acura NSX SH-AWD Sport Hybrid

2017 Acura NSX: A Hybrid Supercar Reimagined

The 2017 Acura NSX marked the triumphant return of a legendary nameplate, reimagined for the 21st century. This second-generation NSX eschewed its VTEC V6 past for a sophisticated, twin-turbocharged V6 hybrid powertrain, delivering blistering performance with remarkable efficiency and everyday usability. It was a car that aimed to redefine the supercar experience, blending exotic looks and exhilarating dynamics with Acura's renowned engineering and reliability.

Highlights

• Powertrain: A Symphony of Power and Innovation: The heart of the 2017 NSX is its groundbreaking Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system. This comprises a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine paired with a direct-drive electric motor at the rear. Complementing this are two independent electric motors at the front, enabling precise torque vectoring. The combined output is a formidable 573 horsepower, with the V6 engine producing 500 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque, and the electric motors contributing an additional 73 horsepower. This sophisticated setup allows for instant torque delivery, seamless power transitions, and an all-wheel-drive system that actively enhances cornering ability and stability.

• Safety Features: Advanced Protection for Exhilaration: The NSX is equipped with a suite of advanced safety features designed to protect its occupants and enhance the driving experience. Key features include:

  • Advanced Airbag System: Including front, side, and knee airbags for comprehensive occupant protection in the event of a collision.
  • Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA®): This system helps maintain traction and stability during cornering, acceleration, and braking by selectively applying brakes and reducing engine power when it detects oversteer or understeer.
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD): ABS prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, while EBD optimally distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels for improved stopping power and control.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Alerts the driver to significant drops in tire pressure, crucial for maintaining optimal performance and safety.
  • Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Provides drivers with a wider view of the area behind the vehicle, aiding in parking and low-speed maneuvers.

• Trims: A Singular, Focused Experience: The 2017 Acura NSX was offered in a single, well-equipped trim level, ensuring that buyers received the full technological and performance package. This singular focus meant that the vast majority of desirable features were standard, creating a consistent and premium ownership experience.

• Other Notable Aspects:

  • Lightweight Construction: The NSX utilizes a bespoke "Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™" chassis, constructed from a combination of aluminum and high-strength steel for exceptional rigidity and a low center of gravity, contributing to its agile handling.
  • Driving Modes: Drivers can select from various driving modes – Quiet, Sport, Sport+, and Track – each offering distinct calibrations for throttle response, transmission shifting, suspension damping, and steering feel, allowing for a personalized driving experience.
  • Performance Uncompromised: Despite its hybrid nature, the NSX delivers supercar-level acceleration, capable of reaching 60 mph in the low three-second range. The electric motors provide a unique boost and responsiveness that traditional internal combustion engines cannot match.

What to Expect

Owning a 2017 Acura NSX is an experience that blends the thrill of a supercar with the practicality and sophistication associated with the Acura brand. You can expect a car that is surprisingly comfortable and usable for daily driving, thanks to its adjustable driving modes and well-appointed interior. The hybrid powertrain, while potent, also offers a degree of fuel efficiency that is uncommon in the supercar segment, especially in the "Quiet" mode.

Maintenance for a vehicle of this caliber will naturally be more specialized and potentially more costly than a mainstream sedan. Regular servicing, including fluid changes, filter replacements, and brake inspections, will be crucial. Due to its complex hybrid system and performance-oriented components, it is highly recommended to have maintenance performed by Acura dealerships or specialized performance shops familiar with the NSX. Expect more frequent inspections of the battery systems and electric motors.

Insurance premiums for the 2017 NSX are likely to be significantly higher than for average vehicles. This is due to its high performance, exotic nature, and the cost of potential repairs to its sophisticated hybrid components. Comprehensive insurance coverage is essential, and obtaining quotes from multiple providers is advised.

Potential Considerations

While the 2017 Acura NSX is a remarkable machine, there are a few potential considerations buyers should be aware of:

• Rear Visibility: Like many mid-engined supercars, the NSX's rear visibility can be somewhat limited, necessitating reliance on the rearview camera and side mirrors for maneuvering.
• Interior Space: The interior, while well-appointed, is undeniably compact. Storage space is at a premium, with limited cabin storage and a relatively small trunk. This makes it less ideal for long-distance road trips carrying significant luggage.
• Brand Perception: While the NSX is a bona fide supercar, Acura's brand perception, historically associated with luxury sedans and SUVs, might not carry the same exotic cachet as some European competitors for some buyers. However, the engineering and performance speak for themselves.
• Sound Profile: The twin-turbocharged V6, while powerful, produces a different sound profile than the naturally aspirated V10 or V12 engines found in some rival supercars. Some enthusiasts might miss the higher-pitched, more visceral wail of a naturally aspirated engine.

Overall Summary

The 2017 Acura NSX is a masterclass in modern supercar engineering. It successfully blended exhilarating performance, advanced hybrid technology, and everyday drivability into a package that was both thrilling and surprisingly accessible. While it may have diverged from its predecessor's naturally aspirated roots, the second-generation NSX carved out its own unique identity as a technologically advanced, exceptionally capable, and engaging supercar that offered a glimpse into the future of high-performance automobiles. It remains a desirable machine for those seeking a sophisticated and potent sports car with a distinct technological edge.