2017 Acura NSX: Sexy, Powerful Hybrid Supercar Specs Released

When it debuted around 25 years ago, the original Acura NSX helped redefine the supercar by combining performance and sexy styling with the usability of more practical cars.

Now, a decade after that cult classic disappeared, Acura is launching a sequel that seeks to redefine the supercar in a completely different way.

First shown as a concept in 2012 and unveiled in production form at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show back in January, the 2017 Acura NSX's headline attraction is a hybrid powertrain.

The NSX's long gestation period has made its sharp styling seem somewhat familiar, but details on its powertrain have been scarce, until now.

Among other things, Acura says the NSX will boast a total system output of 573 horsepower, propelling it to a top speed of 191 mph.

Of that total, 500 hp--along with 406 pound-feet of torque--will come from the mid-mounted twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, which works with a nine-speed dual-clutch transmission and three electric motors.

2017 Acura NSX

One motor is mounted between the engine and transmission to help power the rear wheels, as well as to add engine braking and smooth out the transmission's shifts.

Acura says this motor helps provide more immediate acceleration, particularly at low speeds. It can also act as a generator to charge the lithium-ion battery pack.

The other two motors power the front wheels, giving the NSX all-wheel drive. They can also vector torque between the left and right front wheels for improved handling.

Acura says the instantaneous response of the electric motors allows the system--dubbed Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive--to more precisely control movement, making the car feel more responsive.

There are also four programmable driving modes: electric-only Quiet, Sport, Sport+, and Track.

However, all of these components add weight.

2017 Acura NSX

Acura quotes a curb weight of 3,803 pounds, with a 42/58-percent front/rear weight distribution.

That's despite a body that makes fairly extensive use of lightweight materials.

The body panels are made from aluminum and Sheet Molding Compound (SMC), while the chassis is made primarily from aluminum and high-strength steel.

There's also a carbon-fiber floor, added for torsional rigidity and additional weight savings.

Acura also lists a carbon fiber roof and engine cover as factory options, as well as other, smaller components made from the material.

The cabin is also packed with today's obligatory technology features, including a 7.0-inch touchscreen display and optional navigation.

2017 Acura NSX

The 2017 Acura NSX will be built at Honda's new Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio.

The new facility will employ approximately 100 people, and will be dedicated to NSX production for now.

Its V-6 engine will be sourced from a separate plant in Anna, Ohio, and broken in on a dynamometer before delivery.

Pricing and EPA fuel-economy ratings will be released closer to the NSX's on-sale date.