2017 Acura NSX Coupe

The recently introduced 2017 NSX was developed mainly in Ohio by a small group that has come to think of itself as a family. It is an all-wheel-drive hybrid-electric exotic hypercar.

This is a prime example of filter-down technology. The layout of the three electric motors onboard - two on the front axle and a third between the twin-turbocharged V-6 engine, along with the nine-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox - echoes that of the late, great Porsche 918 Spyder, promising many of the benefits for a fraction of the price.

The NSX has a wide stance and long wheelbase. The snub-nosed body has unmistakable mid-engine proportions, and it invites a stroll around to investigate its many nooks and crannies. The flaring nostrils up front hide the radiators and the air conditioning condenser, while the side ducts gulp air for the intercoolers and engine intakes.

The hood opens to a 'hot box' of aluminum chassis members and equipment with the single four-cubic-foot trunk residing behind the engine. The 3.5-liter dry-sump V-6 engine has racing heredity in its odd, 75-degree V angle, and it fires up with an automatic rev zing now typical of high-strung machines. The peak engine horsepower comes in at 7500 RPM - and the steering weight finally becomes appropriate to a car with 573 combined horsepower. The NSX does 0-60 miles per hour in 2.9 seconds with a top speed of 191 miles per hour.