The NSX is No Longer in Production, but Italdesign Has Created an Even More Advanced Version

Italdesign Unveils Updated Version of Honda NSX

The design studio Italdesign has presented its project dedicated to the second-generation Honda/Acura NSX, production of which ceased in 2022. This special project, which received approval from Honda itself, was unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon.

Key features of the new car, named the NSX Tribute by Italdesign, include:

Project Philosophy and Interior

Italdesign describes this project as a bow to the future, not a nostalgic exercise. The goal was to unite the memory of the original with innovations into a single design language that combines Japanese engineering and Italian craftsmanship.

Changes to the interior are more restrained. They include new trim, exclusive materials, and small details that pay homage to the memory of legendary Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna, who was involved in tuning the first NSX.

Technical Features and Availability

Press releases do not mention whether work was done on the hybrid powertrain—the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6. Standard NSX models from 2017-2022 had 573 hp, which was increased to 602 hp for the Type S version from 2021-2022.

Production will be extremely limited, and the number of cars is not disclosed. Given Italdesign’s history with projects like the Nissan GT-R50 costing around $1.1 million, this NSX Tribute is expected to be very rare and expensive. This holds particular appeal for affluent Honda enthusiasts.

This project appears just weeks after another renowned design studio, Pininfarina, presented its reinterpretation of the original first-generation NSX, indicating a renewed interest in this legendary model from premium ateliers. Both approaches demonstrate different philosophies: Pininfarina focused on the classic, while Italdesign seeks to reinterpret the more modern version while maintaining a connection to its roots. Such initiatives highlight that even after the end of assembly line production, the life of iconic cars can continue in the form of exclusive, bespoke projects that combine heritage with modern customization and design capabilities.