As the NSX is getting ready for its European market launch, the company released some pretty interesting details on its hybrid powertrain.

Honda’s return to the supercar segment brings several innovations, previously seen only in the hypercar realm.

The advanced hybrid powertrain combines three electric motors and a bespoke twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine mated to a nine-speed double-clutch gearbox for a total of no less than 573hp.

“Our engineers explored new technologies to create a car that redefines supercar performance, delivering a vivid and intuitive experience that places the driver at its centre,” said Ted Klaus, chief engineer and global development leader of the new NSX. “As a result, the NSX epitomises the new sports experience, delivering class-leading performance with instant acceleration and exhilarating, confidence-inspiring driving dynamics.”

The twin electric motors mounted on the front axle make the new NSX an active all-wheel drive 191mph supercar too, with the company designing the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD powertrain to deliver ‘instant response’ to the driver’s inputs. Honda mounted the rear electric motor directly to the petrol engine’s crankshaft for an instant throttle response, which also deletes the turbo lag effect from the engine, filling in with torque where needed.

One of the most important highlights is of course the real torque vectoring system used, with the front wheels being controlled individually for even better grip and performance during the twisty stuff.

Four driving modes are available: Quiet, Sport, Sport+ and Track. By choosing one these modes, the system adjusts parameters like steering, brakes , throttle, active dampers, intake and exhaust sound and of course the Sport Hybrid SH-AWD power unit.

All this tech wouldn’t mean anything without a good chassis. Honda claims class-leading structural rigidity with the NSX’s body, saying that it offers twice the rigidity of the nearest class competitor in both dynamic and static torsional stiffness, without of course naming which model they are referring to.

If you think though that the Honda NSX is priced against cars like the McLaren 570S, the Audi R8 and the Porsche 911 Turbo, well they do have a point when they say that they offer the most advanced powertrain in its class, don’t they?

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