Spy Shots: Honda NSX Supercar Prototype

While both Nissan and Toyota are either have a supercar or working hard for a new one only an idiot would think Honda will let its competitors steal all the thunder in this segment. The spies at KGP Photography have captured the next Acura NSX in its prototype form for the first time. The car photographed under S2000 disguise recently.

Unlike the previous mid-engined NSX this prototype is running a front-mid engine, with its powerplant placed well behind the front wheels to ensure excellent weight distribution. This should also allow the new NSX to offer 2+2 cabin accommodation, broadening its appeal against the Nissan GT-R and Lexus LF-A - particularly in the USA. -Continued after the jump...

Gallery: Honda NSX Spy Shots






The engine is still a mystery. There’s talk of a high-revving naturally aspirated V10. An output of 450 hp seems likely. Four-wheel-drive, with rearward bias, is also rumoured, the handling expected to be controlled by a version of Honda’s electronic Super Handling All-Wheel Drive.

The Honda NSX is not expected until 2009 and on top of its Japanese rivals it must also compete with the likes of the Porsche 911 Turbo, Ferrari F430 and the Lamborghini Gallardo.

Rumored: Jaguar Planning 911 Rival

Jaguar is definitely on the move these days. As if it's not enough working on the all-new XJ flagship sedan to keep the transitioning British automaker busy, there are some rumors that Jaguar is preparing a proper sportscar, more hardcore than the XK grand tourer.

The car you see above is the F-Type roadster that Jaguar unveiled at the Detroit show in 2000. Unfortunately, Ford PAG to cancel the program, but Jaguar is reportedly preparing to present the case to its new owners. However, while the F-Type would have competed with the Porsche Boxster, Jaguar is said to have its sight set on the elusive benchmark of the Porsche 911 for its newest sportscar.

Hyundai Wants An Iconic Car

Everybody knows now Hyundai can make high quality and reliable cars that rival mainstream brands like Toyota and Chevrolet. Now it wants to prove it can build an iconic sports car and boost its image. At least say to the world that Hyundai is exciting and dynamic.

Last week at Sydney Motor Show Hyundai's general manager of European design Raphael Bretecher revealed his desire to launch such a car:

"As a car designer I would like to make the icon, that is obvious. But this company looks at what is most profitable and that is what must be delivered first," he said.

Gallery: Hyundai Velostar Concept

2008 Nissan GT-R Unveiled

The 2008 Nissan GT-R has unveiled. Not long after AutoWeek has released images of 2008 GT-R, Inside Line released 11 new shots of the car. The pics look like official.

The GT-R's twin-turbo 3.8L V6 will produce 473 horsepower and 434 ft-lbs. of torque. It goes from 0-60 MPH in 3.5 seconds and can hit 192 MPH. All-Wheel-Drive, the only transmission available will be a GR6 dual-clutch six-speed with paddle shifters.

Gallery: Nissan GT-R