2017 Acura NSX

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Rating8.2

Ranked #4 in 

Compact Coupe
Write Review
$156,000
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on June 10, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Punchy performance

Interior feels cheap

The 2017 Acura NSX is an all-new model.

Superb handling

Not very practical

Accommodative seats

Expensive for what it offers

Forgiving ride quality

Infotainment isn't intuitive

Specs & Features

$156,000

price

573 hp @ 6500 rpm

horsepower

476 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

torque

9-Speed Automated Manual

transmission

3.5L 6cyl AWD 9AM

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The all-new 2017 Acura NSX sports coupe is priced at $156,000 and gets you a 573-hp, twin-turbo V6 engine assisted by the three electric motors. The hybrid powertrain sends power to all four wheels and delivers a blistering 0-60 mph time of 3.1 seconds. Courtesy of the hybrid powertrain the Acura NSX manages a class-leading fuel economy in the city while on the highway it is at par with its rivals.

Being the halo car of the Acura lineup, the cabin quality of the Acura NSX is a big letdown as there are lots of parts sharing done from cheaper Acura models. Although the seats offer good support and the ride quality is supple without a compromise on its handling. The exterior design of the 2017 NSX not only looks striking but manages to amalgamate all the functional elements neatly into the car's body. 

Buying Advice

Since there is only one trim we can’t recommend anything much here except for adding the carbon-ceramic brakes, the power-adjustable seats, and the technology package to better equip your NSX. These features are a must-have and if not present will make you question yourself getting NSX that lack features available in cars priced half of it.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The 2017 Acura NSX is the halo car from Acura which has been specially designed as a performance coupe. The twin-turbo hybrid V6 motor gives phenomenal performance while the competent chassis and the AWD with torque vectoring have endowed the 2017 NSX with God-like handling prowess. Being a sports coupe the ride quality of the NSX is surprisingly good and there isn't any discomfort even after spending long hours in the bucket seats.

Being a sports coupe the cabin feels tight in terms of headroom and the small cargo space robs away few brownie points from the NSX's interior. That said, the lack of advance driver-assist features and budget-grade material inside the NSX's cabin feels a pinch. With the price tag of $156,000 for the 2017 NSX, it breaches the sports car territory rivaling the likes of Audi R8, McLaren 570s, and Nissan GT-R.

Features
8.0/10

The 2017 Acura NSX is available in only one trim option. The 2017 NSX base trim starts at $156,000 before adding any optional features. For 2017, the Acura NSX can only be had as a coupe with seating for two. The base NSX packs in mostly the essential features but the lack of power-adjustable seats which for a car costing upwards of $150,000 is a bummer. 

Those who want more gizmos and creature comfort will need to look at the optional packages offered by Acura for 2017 NSX. Most of the packages are related to aesthetic enhancement and carbon-fiber trims for interior and exterior while the most notable among the packages is the Technology package. 

The Technology package gets you a better sound system, parking sensors, navigation system, and satellite radio. Other notable standalone features include power-adjustable seats, leather upholstery, carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon fiber roof, rear spoiler, and engine cover, special paint options, and high-performance tires.

Trim Acura NSX
MSRP $156,000
Key Features 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels
  LED headlights
  Keyless ignition and entry
  Leather and simulated suede upholstery
  7-inch touchscreen w/ Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  Dual-zone automatic climate control
  Heated seats
  Adaptive suspension dampers

We Recommend

Since there is only one trim we can’t recommend anything much here except for adding the carbon-ceramic brakes, the power-adjustable seats, and the technology package to better equip your NSX. These features are a must-have and if not present will make you question yourself getting NSX that lack features available in cars priced half of it.

Fuel Economy
6.0/10

The 2017 Acura NSX has an EPA estimated gas mileage of 21 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined. The NSX offers a slightly smaller 15.6-gallon fuel tank but the higher gas mileage won’t require you to make frequent fuel stops. The NSX courtesy of its hybrid powertrain can return class-leading city gas mileage but its heavier curb weight lets it gain only one mpg more on the highway compared to the city.

Model

2017 Acura NSX

2017 Audi R8 coupe

2017 McLaren 570s

2017 Nissan GT-R

MPG (city)

21

14

16

16

MPG (highway)

22

22

23

22

MPG (combined)

21

17

19

18

Fuel Capacity (gallon) 15.6 21.9 19.0 19.5

None of the rivals can match the fuel efficiency of the NSX’s hybrid twin-turbo V6 powertrain, at least in the city. Although when it comes to highway gas mileage the McLaren 570s owing to its lesser curb weight returns 1 mpg more than the NSX. While the much heavier gas-powered GT-R matches the highway gas mileage of NSX.

Interior
8.0/10

"Deeply bolstered bucket seats trimmed in perforated Milano leather and Alcantara provide an excellent combination of comfort and support without feeling confining." - Kelley Blue Book

2017 Acura NSX Seating and Comfort

Priced at $156,000 the cabin of the 2017 Acura NSX disappoints. It has a lot of trim and switch gears shared from the Acura part bin and is in no way justified in a car costing upwards of a hundred and fifty thousand grands. The driver-focused cabin with the lower dashboard design is right on point and gives you a good view of what’s outside. The buttons and controls are ergonomically laid out and well within the reach of the driver with one hand on the steering. 

The Acura NSX is a two-door and two-seat coupe with the seats placed very low to the ground. There isn't a height adjustment available for the seats and even if Acura had given it then it would have been redundant, as the 47.8-inches tall NSX offers snug headroom for six-foot-tall in its standard seat position. That said, the bucket seats trimmed in perforated Milano leather and Alcantara offer good support and comfort and they won’t tire you out even after spending long hours in them.

Model

2017 Acura NSX

2017 Audi R8 coupe

2017 McLaren 570s

2017 Nissan GT-R

Passenger capacity

2

2

2

4

Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

38.3/ 57.6/ 42.8

38.5/ 55.1/ 40.9

N/A

38.1/ 54.3/ 44.6

Second

(Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

N/A

N/A

N/A

33.5/ 50.0/ 26.4

Except for the Nissan GT-R, all the three sports coupe offers seating for two while the GT-R offers seating for four. The Acura NSX sitting 87.3-inches wide gets the best shoulder room among all while the Nissan GT-R stands 4.1-inches taller than the NSX offers 0.2-inches lesser headroom. But the GT-R’s 5.9-inches longer wheelbase ensures it has 1.8-inches of more legroom in the front row compared to the NSX.

2017 Acura NSX Infotainment System

The 2017 Acura NSX gets a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Smartphone connectivity options include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth while an eight-speaker sound system and two USB ports are also part of the standard features list. Opting for the optional Technology pack unlocks the nine-speaker premium ELS sound system, navigation, satellite radio, and AcuraLink interface. 

Interior Features

  • Keyless ignition
  • Auto-dimming inside rearview mirror
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control
  • Heated front seats
  • Ambient lighting
  • Available power-adjustable seats

2017 Acura NSX Cargo Capacity

The 2017 Acura NSX offers 4.4 cubic feet of cargo space. Honestly, the cargo space isn’t the best in the business and the main reason for that is the NSX sacrifices the front trunk for the electric motor and battery.

Model

2017 Acura NSX

2017 Audi R8 coupe

2017 McLaren 570s

2017 Nissan GT-R

Cargo Volume (ft.3)

4.4

8.0

N/A

8.8

The rivals offer better cargo space and the Nissan GT-R with 185.4-inches in length, 9.4-inches longer than the NSX, gets the biggest 8.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity which is almost double what the NSX has to offer.

Exterior
9.9/10

" The car’s purposeful appearance is set off by highly efficient full-LED lighting and embraces themes destined to influence the look of future products from the division"- KBB

2017 Acura NSX Dimensions and Weight

The understated looks of the 2017 Acura NSX give importance to function over form. The twin-turbo hybrid V6 powertrain generates a hell lot of heat and all the small cuts, vents and scoops have been cleverly amalgamated into the Acura NSX’s body to ensure optimal cooling. The front fascia is predominant with a large grille and slim LED headlights. The 176-inches long Acura NSX has a sculpted side profile with a floating C-pillar that cleverly incorporates a set of vents to cool the engine. 

Sitting on a 103.5-inches of wheelbase the Acura NSX looks well proportioned with the majority of the wheelbase occupied by the cabin for better interior space. The rear profile has its share of cuts and creases with the full-length LED brake lights that makes a C-shape at both ends being the highlight. The 2017 NSX is 87.3-inches wide which not only gives it adequate space inside the cabin but also ensures generous track width for phenomenal stability.

Model

2017 Acura NSX

2017 Audi R8 coupe

2017 McLaren 570s

2017 Nissan GT-R

Curb weight (lbs.)

3,803

3,649

3,186

3,933

Length(in)

176

174.3

178.3

185.4

Width(in)

87.3

76.4

76.0

74.6

Height(in)

47.8

48.8

46.3

53.9

Ground clearance (in)

3.7

6.3

N/A

4.3

Wheelbase (in)

103.5

104.3

105.1

109.4

Among the rivals, it is no doubt the Nissan GT-R is the biggest sports car. The Nissan GT-R measures 9.4-inches longer, 6.1-inches taller, and has a 5.9-inches longer wheelbase compared to the NSX. The NSX on the other hand is 12.7-inches wider than the GT-R. 

Exterior Features

  • LED headlights
  • Rear spoiler
  • 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels
  • Heated outside mirror
  • Available front and rear parking sensors

Safety
8.0/10

Being a low volume sports coupe the 2017 Acura NSX hasn’t been crash-tested by either NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features include airbags, anti-lock braking, traction and stability control, etc. While the missing advanced safety and driver-assist features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot and lane departure warning, etc are a bummer.

Safety Features

  • Airbag Occupancy Sensor
  • Hill-start assist
  • Traction control
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Tire-pressure monitoring system
  • Curtain 1st Row Airbags
  • Rearview Camera

Competition
9.0/10

2017 Acura NSX vs 2017 Audi R8

The 2017 Audi R8 and the 2017 Acura NSX are among the priciest offerings of the respective marques. Although the Audi R8 is approximately seven grand more expensive than the Acura NSX. The Audi R8 is powered by a naturally aspirated V10 while the NSX gets a twin-turbo hybrid V6 engine. The power delivery from the naturally aspirated V10 feels much more enticing compared to the hybrid powertrain although the latter return better gas mileage.

One plus point that the Audi R8 has is that it offers a choice of two trims. Other than that the Audi R8 has a sure-footed handling and a more luxurious cabin compared to the NSX. Having said that, the Audi R8 is not only costlier but also the V10 produces far less power and torque than the NSX. Thus if you are looking for a budget-friendly sports coupe go for the NSX otherwise the Audi R8 is the choice for the shearing driving pleasure and the naturally aspirated V10.

2017 Acura NSX vs 2017 McLaren 570s

The 2017 McLaren 570s is a tough competitor of the 2017 Acura NSX. Although it isn’t as powerful as the NSX it is much quicker in the 0-60 mph and quarter-mile runs while returning better gas mileage on the highway. The cabin of the McLaren feels more premium and plush compared to the NSX’s but if you look at the price gap of $35,000 between the two then this can be easily overlooked. 

The McLaren is slightly longer in length and wheelbase compared to the Acura NSX so it will have better cabin and cargo space. But the big price difference between the two makes the Acura NSX look like a financially prudent choice.

2017 Acura NSX vs 2017 Nissan GT-R

The 2017 Nissan GT-R not only comes cheap but gives a tough fight to the 2017 Acura NSX in terms of power, torque, and acceleration figures. The Nissan GT-R also offers two more trim choices compared to the NSX which comes in only one trim option. The GT-R is not only able to match the highway fuel economy of the NSX but it also offers better cabin space and cargo area compared to the NSX. The full credit for that goes to the Nissan GT-R’s bigger length and wheelbase in comparison to the NSX. 

Between the two, although the NSX feels much more comfortable and handles more enthusiastically. So the choice is yours if you can spend the money then go for the new Acura NSX or if the space, practicality, and a tight budget are what defines your requirement then the aging Nissan GT-R isn’t a bad choice either.

Final Verdict

The all-new 2017 Acura NSX has tried to be an all-rounder. The NSX offers powerful performance, track car-like agility, a family sedan-like gas mileage and ride comfort, and a bold yet sporty exterior design. The Acura NSX starting at $156,000 isn’t exactly cheap and the so-so interior quality and part sharing from the cheaper Acura cars is a big drawback. But in totality, there isn’t a car that can be deemed perfect, and keeping that in mind the Acura NSX stays true to what it promises to deliver and anyone looking for a sports coupe in this segment should give the Acura NSX a shot.

Trims

    Base
    $156,000 onwards
    • Acuralink smartphone connectivity system
    • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
    • Auto-Dimming rearview mirror
    • Dual-Zone automatic climate control
    • Eight-Speaker sound system
    • Keyless ignition and entry
    • Leather and simulated suede upholstery
    • Manually adjustable seats

Compare to similar cars

Price

$156,000

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

8.21

Horsepower

573 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque

476 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

Capacity

2

Read Review

$41,200- $48,600

Gasoline

7.5

220 hp @ 4450 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

4

Read Review

$162,900- $189,900

Gasoline

8.08

540 hp @ 7800 rpm

398 lb.-ft. @ 6500 rpm

2

Read Review

$53,100- $61,100

Gasoline

8.9

333 hp @ 5500 rpm

325 lb.-ft. @ 2900 rpm

4

Read Review

$52,500

Gasoline

8.19

292 hp @ 5400 rpm

280 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm

4

Read Review

$143,400

plug-in-hybrid

7.47

357 hp @ 5800 rpm

420 lb.-ft.

4

Read Review

$66,200- $74,700

Gasoline

7.94

320 hp @ 5500 rpm

330 lb.-ft. @ 1380 rpm

4

Read Review

$38,950- $53,300

Gasoline

7.72

208 hp @ 5500 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

4

Read Review

$61,400- $128,800

Gasoline

8.4

340 hp @ 6500 rpm

332 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm

2

Read Review

$399,500- $443,800

Gasoline

7.82

700 hp @ 8250 rpm

507 lb.-ft. @ 5500 rpm

2

Read Review

2017 Acura NSX vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    3.1 sec11.2 sec172 mph
    2.7 sec10.6 sec-
    2017 Audi R8

    Ranked #3

    3.6 sec10 sec185 mph
    2017 BMW M4

    Ranked #4

    4 sec12.3 sec155 mph
    4.4 sec12.5 sec-
    4.4 sec-96 mph

    2017 Acura NSX vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      21 mpg22 mpg21 mpg15.6 gal.312/343.2 mi.
      28 mpg29 mpg28 mpg11.1 gal.-
      22 mpg32 mpg26 mpg17.4 gal.382.8/556.8 mi.
      2017 Audi A5

      Ranked #2

      21 mpg32 mpg26 mpg16.1 gal.370.30/515.20 mi.
      22 mpg30 mpg25 mpg20 gal.440/600 mi.
      2017 Audi TTS

      Ranked #3

      23 mpg27 mpg25 mpg14.5 gal.326.6/383.4 mi.

      2017 Acura NSX vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        2017 Acura NSX

        Ranked #10

        176 in.87.3 in.47.8 in.3.7 in.103.5 in.
        194.2 in.75.4 in.53.3 in.5 in.115.8 in.
        188.9 in.79.9 in.44.7 in.4.1 in.106.3 in.
        185.2 in.72.6 in.54.7 in.5.1 in.107.5 in.
        184.9 in.87.3 in.50.8 in.4.6 in.110.2 in.
        184.8 in.72.4 in.54.9 in.5.3 in.107.5 in.

        2017 Acura NSX vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          4.4 cu.ft.44 cu.ft.10.1 cu.ft.
          4.7 cu.ft.81 cu.ft.150 cu.ft.
          5.3 cu.ft.50 cu.ft.69 cu.ft.
          10.4 cu.ft.82 cu.ft.66.3 cu.ft.
          14.4 cu.ft.91 cu.ft.11 cu.ft.
          2017 Audi TTS

          Ranked #5

          12 cu.ft.125.3 cu.ft.57.5 cu.ft.

          2017 Acura NSX vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            10.1 cu.ft.4.4 cu.ft.10.1 cu.ft.-
            2017 Audi A5

            Ranked #2

            8.8 cu.ft.12.2 cu.ft.8.8 cu.ft.232 ft.
            2017 Audi TTS

            Ranked #3

            57.5 cu.ft.12 cu.ft.57.5 cu.ft.76 ft.
            8.7 cu.ft.8.7 cu.ft.8.7 cu.ft.-
            -10.4 cu.ft.--
            -10.4 cu.ft.--

            2017 Acura NSX vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              694 lbs.3803 lbs.
              1023 lbs.3727 lbs.
              672 lbs.3472 lbs.
              700 lbs.3748 lbs.
              700 lbs.3737 lbs.
              704 lbs.2944 lbs.

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              MPG Combined : 21 mpg

              0-60 : 3.1 sec

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