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Why Acura should build a hybrid Integra successor using NSX tech

Yes, it sounds like a heresy. Yes, the Honda CR-Z was not a good hybrid sports car. Yes, we know the RSX officially replaced the Integra here (but was called the Integra in Japan). But, no, we're not crazy. Well, maybe a little bit. But hear us out. At the moment Acura is a bit of an unfocused mess. Its line-up is thoroughly uninspiring, save for its $200,000 NSX supercar – a great mid-engined supercar with an impressive, performance-oriented hybrid AWD system. And yet few people would draw a line connecting Acura's other SH-AWD hybrids, the RLX Sport Hybrid and MDX Sport Hybrid, to the NSX. The first NSX told the world that Acura built cars with world-class technology and performance, and the Integra carried it to people with normal pocketbooks. Since the new NSX communicates a similar message as its forbearer, so too would a new Integra. Now making an entry-level sports car with hybrid technology is tricky business. As we already established, the Honda CR-Z was a colossal flop. It's balance was all off: heavy, expensive, and not very sporty – and it didn't even get very good fuel economy. However, Honda and Acura can learn from these mistakes. First, to keep costs in check, Acura can borrow from Honda's ever-improving parts bin. It would logical to borrow the excellent Civic coupe platform – something the old Integra did as well. It could also attach the proposed hybrid powertrain to the upcoming Si turbocharged four-cylinder. Some added cost will be unavoidable, since the batteries and motors will have to go somewhere. That will cost some engineering dollars, and inflate the price tag a bit. However, since Acura is a premium brand, it has some wiggle room to bump up the price without losing buyers. Weight is another potential issue this hypothetical hybrid will face, and was one of the chief complaints with the CR-Z. Looking at the RLX and the RLX Sport Hybrid, the hybrid bits weigh about an extra 340 pounds. That's not insignificant, but added to the turbocharged Civic EX-T coupe's 2,900 pound curb weight, you would have a car that would weigh 3,240 pounds. That's comparable to the very fun Mustang EcoBoost. As long as Acura keeps the weight under 3,500 pounds, the brand should have an entertaining coupe on its hands. The final piece of the puzzle is to make sure it isn't compromised. Every bit of hybrid tech in the NSX is there for performance. It helps eliminate turbo lag, and it improves acceleration and handling.

Acura NSX production car headed for Detroit debut?

Auto Express is reporting that Honda is set to unveil the production version of its upcoming Acura NSX at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. The news comes courtesy of an unnamed "top exec" for Honda Brazil speaking at the Sao Paulo Motor Show. The concept version of the Japanese supercar is currently on display there. Interestingly enough, the same unnamed source claims the production iteration will remain aesthetically identical to the show car. You won't hear any qualms from us on that front.
Of course, the timing of the production debut is a little confusing. For starters, when Acura unveiled the concept last year, the company told the world it would be at least three years before production began. That would give the street-worthy model a 2014 or 2015 designation, the latter being cited more often in media accounts. Thus, we'll keep an eye out for the hybrid supercar in Motown, but we're going to stop short of holding our breath... it might be a while.

2017 Acura MDX has a sharper face and Sport Hybrid option

The 2017 Acura MDX's new face takes inspiration from the more angular nose on the Acura Precision Concept, but there are even bigger changes under the skin. All models now have the full suite of AcuraWatch safety tech, and the available MDX Sport Hybrid is the third model from the brand to get its three-motor all-wheel drive system, after the RLX and NSX. The powertrain in the 2017 MDX Sport Hybrid pairs a 3.0-liter V6 with hybrid assist and a seven-speed automatic at the front and two more electric motors at the rear axle. Acura claims the system offers a total output of 325 horsepower, 35 more than the non-hybrid, and estimates that it gets 25 miles per gallon city, 26 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. If buyers spec either the optional Technology or Advance packages, they also get an Active Sport Suspension with Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+ modes. Regardless of powertrain, all versions of the 2017 MDX now come standard with a suite of active safety systems. The huge array of tech includes Collision Mitigation Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Road Departure Mitigation. An electric parking brake and auto high beams are now among the regular features, too. Customers that opt for higher trim models can choose to replace the second row bench seat with captain's chairs and a center console with extra USB ports. The 2017 MDX also has a fresher style thanks to its diamond pentagon grille and more angular hood. To fit the new look, the LED headlights have a sharper design. The chrome sills had an extra visual flourish. The upgraded rear bumper with even better integrated dual exhausts looks great, too. Get a good look in the gallery above. Related Video: Refreshed 2017 Acura MDX Makes World Debut in New York with Bold New Styling, Upgraded Features and Sport Hybrid Powertrain Mar 23, 2016 - NEW YORK 2017 MDX showcases new diamond pentagon grille first seen on the Acura Precision Concept New Sport Hybrid powertrain delivers the ultimate in power and control while gaining 35 horsepower and anticipated to add 7 mpg to city fuel economy rating AcuraWatch™ safety and driver assist technology to be offered as standard equipment on all 2017 MDX models Acura today unveiled the restyled and refreshed 2017 MDX luxury SUV featuring bold new styling, added luxury features and available Sport Hybrid Super Handling-All Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) powertrain technology.