2022 Acura NSX Type S First Look Review: Endgame

The Acura NSX came into the automotive world with a bang and has no intention of leaving with a whimper. Yes, 2022 is the last model year for the sports car, but it will end on a powerful note with the 600-hp 2022 Acura NSX Type S.

The Type S is the only NSX model offered for 2022 and it’s limited to a total of 350 units, 300 of which are earmarked for the United States. The 2022 NSX Type S also marks the first time a Type S-badged NSX has been sold outside of Japan.

Acura’s Powerful Hybrid

The 2022 NSX Type S made its global debut during Monterey Car Week. Power comes from an updated version of the model’s 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 and three-motor hybrid system. All in, it produces a peak of 600 hp and 492 lb-ft of torque—27 horses and 16 lb-ft more than the 2021 NSX. The turbochargers are borrowed from the NSX GT3 Evo race car. And there is more battery capacity and output than today’s NSX, allowing for longer periods of electric-only driving in the car’s EV mode.

The Type S maintains the model’s nine-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. However, the gearbox is retuned and to perform upshifts 50 percent faster than before. It also has a new rapid downshift mode that allows the driver to skip gears holding down the left shift paddle. We hope it comes with a burble or growl from the exhaust. The sports car continues to feature Acura’s so-called “Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive” system.

“NSX is an incredible success story for Acura, leading the reestablishment of Acura as a performance brand and setting the stage for the return of Type S,” Acura Brand Officer Jon Ikeda said. “We’re a company of enthusiasts, and we’re already investigating what the next generation of sports cars should be in the coming electrified era.”

Type S Style

The NSX Type S is distinguished by its more aggressive styling, starting with the nose that features more angular air intakes. The aerodynamics were improved with a larger rear diffuser and a reshaped front spoiler that better directs air under the car.

There are Type S decals, an Alcantara headliner, a red engine cover, and unique five-spoke wheels that widen the car’s track slightly. The rims are shod with Pirelli P-Zero tires developed specifically for the car. Additionally, the adaptive damper system is retuned. A carbon-fiber roof is standard and lowers the center of gravity for better handling.

Acura added an optional Gotham Gray matte paint color, which is limited to 70 of the 350 vehicles that will be produced globally. An available Lightweight package includes carbon-ceramic brakes, a special engine cover and interior package, and a 58-pound weight reduction.

The 2022 NSX Type S starts at $171,495, with the lightweight package adding $13,000 to the price. Not too shabby considering the current, less powerful NSX stickers for $159,495.

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