There's good and bad news surrounding the final NSX, a supercar that brings the second-generation run that Acura introduced in 2015 to a close. The good news is the NSX is going out with a bang, as every 2022 model will receive Type S badging, which translates into performance upgrades. That makes it the third Type S model to launch in the last year, after the TLX sedan and MDX SUV. During the 2021 Monterey Car Week, Acura Product Planner Jonathan Rivers said the 2022 NSX represented "the pinnacle of Type S performance."
The bad news is there will only be 350 models built—300 of which will go to U.S. customers. Building on the same solid foundation that made it great in the first place, the NSX Type S retains perks such as ablation-cast parts and gets welcome upgrades in the aerodynamic and performance departments while taking inspiration from the NSX GT3 race car.
For its last hurrah, the 2022 NSX Type S will compete against a wide range of super sports cars from the likes of Lamborghini, McLaren, and Porsche. Other hybrid supercars on the horizon to keep an eye out for include the McLaren Artura and, a few notches above the NSX Type S, the upcoming Ferrari 296 GTB. While the NSX Type S may not be quite as fast as the Artura, or deliver the same performance-per-dollar value a C8 Corvette does, it remains a powerful addition to the segment.
The Most Powerful Production Drivetrain In Acura's History
The supercar's twin-turbo V6 and three-motor hybrid system returns for 2022 with several upgrades. On the combustion engine front, the 3.5-liter 75-degree V6 gets new fuel injectors, new intercoolers, and new turbochargers from the NSX GT3 Evo. The engine's horsepower output increases from 500 hp to 520 hp. Additionally, 406 lb-ft of torque rises to 443 lb-ft.
On the hybrid front, drivers will benefit from greater performance and extended EV range thanks to a more efficient Intelligent Power Unit and retuned electric motors. The combined system output now totals 600 hp and 492 lb-ft of torque.
Acura managed to deliver even more performance thanks to a retune of the nine-speed dual-clutch transmission and Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive. There's a new Rapid Downshift Mode that enables drivers to skip gears, plus better shifting to apply throttle even quicker.
Two-Seconds Faster Than A 2021 NSX Lapping Suzuka Circuit
There are no official acceleration figures from Acura. However, Acura claims the NSX Type S laps Japan's Suzuka Circuit two seconds faster than the 2021 model. Other outlets such as Edmunds drove the 2022 Acura NSX to a 3.1-second zero-to-60-mph time during testing.
Acura's improvements to the performance extends beyond engine and drivetrain upgrades. The supercar's design goes hand in hand with the performance, a sentiment the team behind it looked to achieve. Exterior designer Dai Hara said this during a mini-documentary Acura released on the NSX Type S: "At first glance, people will say, 'It looks completely different, it looks fast. This car must be amazing'."
The four Integrated Dynamics System modes received a retune, and race-inspired design choices include a refined nose, larger rear diffuser, and fins for better cornering. Performance five-spoke forged wheels improve control and further support the notion the NSX Type S belongs on a race track.
The engine sounds don't go to waste, either. NSX Type S drivers will be able to hear strong engine notes inside the cabin thanks to Acura's engineers reprogramming the Intake Sound Control and Active Sound Control. In the previously mentioned documentary, development leader Satoshi Mizukami said, "we strive to let people inside the vehicle enjoy the raw sound of the engine rotating beautifully."
Interior Designed Around The Driver
New for 2022, the NSX Type S comes with an Alcantara headliner. Buyers can choose between three Alcantara and Semi-Aniline Leather combinations: Ebony, Orchid, and Red. Several areas throughout the cabin remind drivers of what vehicle they're in with a variation of "NSX" and "Type S" branded logos covering headrests, the glove box, and key fob.
Lightweight Package Available For The Ultimate NSX Type S Experience
The NSX Type S starts at $169,500, a step up from the 2022 Audi R8, and significantly higher than a 2022 Chevrolet Corvette or 2022 Porsche 911. However, the final NSX becomes a cheaper alternative when compared to the 2022 Nissan GT-R Nismo.
There's also a Lightweight Package available for drivers who want to shave 57.8 pounds off the supercar's curb weight. The Lightweight Package adds Carbon Fiber to the interior, Carbon Ceramic Brakes, and a Carbon Fiber engine cover. The NSX Type S sporting a Lightweight Package costs $182,500.
Acura went to great lengths to make the NSX Type S the ultimate supercar, giving the legendary nameplate the farewell it deserves.