Italdesign is a notably intriguing player in the automotive industry. Primarily operating behind the scenes, it focuses on producing white-label designs and visual elements for brands targeting consumers. However, it has also engaged in public collaborations with automobile manufacturers. This week, the brand unveiled another collaborative project: A “new” Acura (Honda) NSX. Essentially a significant refresh of the second-generation model, it boasts an impressive appearance, and the brand has produced a fantastic animated video showcasing it racing through a Tokyo Xtreme Racer-style environment, referencing F1 icon Ayrton Senna.
As many are aware, the Honda NSX (known as Acura NSX in the United States) is a mid-engine supercar with two iterations and three distinct looks. The original was a wedge-shaped masterpiece from the 1990s, famously driven by Senna, followed by a fixed-light update for the new millennium. After numerous teasers and what seemed like an eternity, Honda/Acura finally introduced a second-generation model in 2016. That super hybrid, crafted in Ohio, was a thrill to drive, though produced in very limited numbers. In fact, it is far rarer than its predecessor—only around 3,000 second-gen NSXs are believed to have been manufactured from 2016 to 2022, as opposed to roughly 19,000 first-generation models produced from 1990 to 2005.
The Honda NSX Tribute by Italdesign effectively introduces a fourth semi-official body style for the car. It has the endorsement of Honda, yet it’s uncertain how many, if any, will be available on public roads. Similar to the Italdesign Scighera from the ‘90s, or more currently, the Nissan GT-R50 Italdesign, this NSX primarily showcases Italdesign’s capabilities rather than being an actual market product. Consequently, the visuals circulating online are renders. Nevertheless, they are indeed enjoyable to view, and speaking of that, here’s the exciting game-style video I previously referenced. The nod to Senna’s footwear choice is quite apparent:
Italdesign’s press release promotes this NSX as a “limited project” with “extremely limited series production,” suggesting that the firm plans to produce at least two (right-hand drive only). I reached out to the company’s US representative, who didn’t provide pricing information, but stated he would keep us updated on how to place an order.
Currently, it is unclear whether you’ll need to send your NSX to them for this modification, or if they’re intending to acquire several to rebuild, or what the plan is. Italdesign doesn’t operate as a tuner with customer-facing workshops, so your local Acura dealership staff would likely be perplexed if you inquired about this. I will revise this article if we obtain details about placing an order. Given what the Nissan GT-R50 cost in 2018, anticipate a price exceeding $1,000,000 for an Italdesign NSX.
Here’s a slideshow (renders) of the Honda NSX Tribute by Italdesign in various colors for closer examination:
In this section, you can view the cockpit in several color combinations:
Here are some design sketches related to the vehicle:
As noted, while it’s reasonable to say the car is “back” albeit in extremely limited supply, this NSX is intended to be celebrated as an illustration of artistic capability rather than as a consumer road car. In light of this, here is some contextual insight from Italdesign representatives regarding the design choices reflected in the car (edited for presentation).
Joaquin Garcia, Head of Design at Italdesign:
“The Honda NSX was an audacious model, a genuine disruptor in the supercar category that evolved from a visionary concept to a commercially viable sports icon … At Italdesign, we possess all the expertise needed to transform daring ideas into concrete realities and bring visionary projects to ultra-limited series. This tribute exemplifies looking forward. It is neither a restomod nor purely nostalgic: it aims to merge memory and innovation, progressive technology, and artisanal excellence in a model that retains the original racing DNA, along with the Italian flair in its exterior forms, to which we have contributed contemporary styling and engineering solutions.”
Cristiano Fracchia, Senior Exterior Designer at Italdesign:
“We focused on the vehicle’s muscularity to impart tension and dynamism, while preserving the purity and clarity of the original lines … “We reinstated the low, sleek proportions of the initial model, featuring a sloping hood and a fully black greenhouse that lightens the silhouette and enhances sportiness. At the front, the headlamp clusters are set within a glossy black fairing that underscores the car’s “gaze,” creating contrast with the surrounding surfaces, adding depth, and reinforcing the perceived precision and sportiness. The eyelids replace the pop-up headlights of the first generation and incorporate a modern stylistic treatment.”
“Our aspiration was to imbue the car with an even more technical and performance-driven character. We meticulously examined every aerodynamic appendage: spoilers, diffusers, skirts, extractors. Everything has been conceived to maximize performance without compromising expressiveness. The roof air intake serves as an unmistakable reference to the version on the NSX-R GT, a highly advanced engineering feat for its time, integral to the sophisticated aerodynamic management system.”
Gaspare Conticelli, Senior Exterior Designer at Italdesign:
“The floating ring of the NSX, which enhanced stability at high speeds, evolves into a continuous, floating, elegant, and functional visual element that conveys lightness and dynamism. The rear light clusters do not have a fairing as those at the front; they emerge as individual elements against the black backdrop. The underlying hot-air diffuser features functional grooves reminiscent of treatments applied to our recent concepts.”
Alessandro Trombin, Senior Interior Designer at Italdesign:
[The design draws inspiration from the dual cockpit of the first generation, reimagined with a contemporary perspective] “and with elements that envelop the driver and passenger, fostering connection and continuity … The incorporation of design elements extending from the dashboard to the vents, defining the link with the door panel, generates sophisticated components influenced by Formula 1 single-seaters, contributing to continuity and a wraparound sensation.”
Italdesign will be showcasing at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 (January 9–11, 2026), specifically in North Hall 11, Booth 1102, for those in Japan this weekend. The company has also shared a general promotional video on YouTube today, suggesting that the NSX is part of a broader promotional strategy for the brand.
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**Acura NSX Returns with Official Ultra-Limited Redesign**
The Acura NSX, a title associated with exceptional performance and innovative technology, is set to make a remarkable comeback with an ultra-limited redesign that has fans and collectors eagerly anticipating. This new version of the legendary sports car aims to merge the brand’s illustrious history with contemporary innovations, resulting in a vehicle that serves as both a homage to its ancestors and a preview of the future of performance cars.
**Heritage and Evolution**
The inaugural NSX, introduced in 1990, was revolutionary for its time, featuring an all-aluminum body, a mid-engine configuration, and a V6 engine that provided an ideal equilibrium of power and fuel efficiency. It was among the first production vehicles to implement a multi-link suspension system, which enhanced handling and ride quality. The NSX quickly built a reputation for its dependability and performance, becoming a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
After a break, the second-generation NSX launched in 2016, highlighting Acura’s dedication to hybrid technology with its Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. This version paired a twin-turbocharged V6 engine with three electric motors, delivering thrilling performance while remaining focused on efficiency.
**The Ultra-Limited Redesign**
The newly designed ultra-limited NSX strives to honor the legacy of the vehicle while advancing the frontiers of automotive design and technology. Acura has declared that only a select few units will be manufactured, rendering this model a collector’s item from the very beginning.
**Design Features**
The new design showcases a more aggressive and aerodynamic exterior, featuring sharp silhouettes and a low profile that accentuates its athletic appeal. The front end has been revised to optimize airflow and cooling, while the rear sports a distinctive LED light signature that pays tribute to the original NSX. Lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum have been incorporated to diminish weight and enhance performance.
Inside, the cabin merges luxury with sportiness, featuring high-end materials and advanced technology. The driver-oriented cockpit includes a digital instrument cluster and an updated infotainment system, ensuring drivers have access to vital information while reveling in the excitement of the drive.
**Performance Enhancements**
Beneath the hood, the ultra-limited NSX is anticipated to boast a more powerful variant of the twin-turbocharged V6 engine, allied with an upgraded hybrid system. This arrangement is intended to yield even swifter acceleration and improved handling dynamics. Acura’s engineers have fine-tuned the suspension and braking systems to create a more responsive driving experience, establishing the new NSX as a genuine performance vehicle.
**Exclusivity and Availability**
With only a limited number of models set for production, the new Acura NSX is positioned to become a coveted automobile among collectors and performance aficionados. Acura has indicated that the production will be finite, ensuring that each vehicle retains its exclusivity. Interested consumers will need to act promptly, as demand is projected to significantly exceed availability.
**Conclusion**
The revival of the Acura NSX with its ultra-limited redesign signifies a critical moment in the automotive landscape. By blending cutting-edge technology with a nod to its rich legacy, Acura is poised to reignite enthusiasm for the NSX among enthusiasts and collectors alike. As the automotive industry continues to develop, the NSX remains a symbol of the enduring allure of performance and innovation.
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