What engine does the Acura NSX use?
In broad terms, the NSX uses two different powertrains depending on its generation: the original mid‑mounted V6 (3.0 liters, later 3.2 liters) with Honda’s VTEC technology, and the modern NSX, which pairs a 3.5‑liter twin‑turbocharged V6 with a hybrid electric system. The newer model also uses a three‑motor hybrid SH‑AWD setup for all‑wheel drive and torque vectoring.
Original NSX engine (1990–2005)
Overview of the powerplant
The first‑generation NSX relied on a mid‑mounted aluminum V6 with VTEC. Early US models used a 3.0‑liter configuration, delivering roughly 270 horsepower, while later updates increased displacement to 3.2 liters for about 290 horsepower. The engine was designed for high‑revving performance and light weight, a hallmark of the NSX’s lightweight, driver‑focused ethos.
Before the following list, note the key aspects of this era’s engine lineup:
- Mid‑mounted 3.0‑liter V6 with Honda VTEC technology, providing a high‑revving character and strong response.
- Displacement grew from 3.0 L to 3.2 L in the later models, boosting horsepower to around 290 hp.
- All‑aluminum construction helped keep the NSX’s weight down and contributed to balanced handling.
- Engine architecture and chassis integration emphasized a refined, race‑bred driving experience rather than brute straight‑line power.
In summary, the original NSX established its reputation with a lightweight, high‑revs V6 that evolved from 3.0 L to 3.2 L, maintaining a focus on precise handling and performance without relying on heavy turbocharging.
Second-generation NSX engine and hybrid powertrain (2016–2022)
Hybrid engine system and performance
The modern NSX adopts a 3.5‑liter twin‑turbocharged V6 paired with a hybrid SH‑AWD system. The gasoline engine alone produces strong performance, while the electric motors add instant torque and enable all‑wheel drive and advanced torque vectoring. Combined output sits in the high‑500s horsepower range, with the range‑topping variants (notably the NSX Type S) delivering around 600 horsepower. The powertrain is managed by a nine‑speed dual‑clutch transmission that works in concert with the electric motors for seamless, rapid responses.
Before the following list, here are the core elements of the second‑generation powertrain:
- 3.5‑liter twin‑turbocharged V6 engine powering the rear wheels via a 9‑speed dual‑clutch transmission.
- Hybrid SH‑AWD system with three electric motors: two front‑axle motors driving the front wheels and a rear‑axle motor to assist the rear wheels and add torque vectoring.
- Hybrid energy storage and electrical augmentation provide performance boosts at low and mid speeds and enable electric‑only operation in certain conditions.
- Total system output generally around 573 horsepower, with the NSX Type S variant rated near 600 horsepower.
In essence, the second‑gen NSX blends turbocharged V6 performance with a targeted hybrid system to deliver sustained power across the rev range, all‑wheel drive grip, and refined drivability that suits both everyday use and track sessions.
Summary
Across its two generations, the Acura NSX has moved from a lightweight, high‑revving mid‑mounted V6 with VTEC (3.0 L, later 3.2 L) to a modern, turbocharged 3.5‑liter V6 backed by a hybrid SH‑AWD system delivering substantial total output. The first generation emphasized lightweight agility and rev performance, while the second emphasized all‑weather traction, instant torque, and high overall outputs, with the Type S variant pushing power toward the 600‑hp mark.
