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Why Acura should build a hybrid Integra successor using NSX tech

Yes, it sounds like a heresy. Yes, the Honda CR-Z was not a good hybrid sports car. Yes, we know the RSX officially replaced the Integra here (but was called the Integra in Japan). But, no, we're not crazy. Well, maybe a little bit. But hear us out. At the moment Acura is a bit of an unfocused mess. Its line-up is thoroughly uninspiring, save for its $200,000 NSX supercar – a great mid-engined supercar with an impressive, performance-oriented hybrid AWD system. And yet few people would draw a line connecting Acura's other SH-AWD hybrids, the RLX Sport Hybrid and MDX Sport Hybrid, to the NSX. The first NSX told the world that Acura built cars with world-class technology and performance, and the Integra carried it to people with normal pocketbooks. Since the new NSX communicates a similar message as its forbearer, so too would a new Integra. Now making an entry-level sports car with hybrid technology is tricky business. As we already established, the Honda CR-Z was a colossal flop. It's balance was all off: heavy, expensive, and not very sporty – and it didn't even get very good fuel economy. However, Honda and Acura can learn from these mistakes. First, to keep costs in check, Acura can borrow from Honda's ever-improving parts bin. It would logical to borrow the excellent Civic coupe platform – something the old Integra did as well. It could also attach the proposed hybrid powertrain to the upcoming Si turbocharged four-cylinder. Some added cost will be unavoidable, since the batteries and motors will have to go somewhere. That will cost some engineering dollars, and inflate the price tag a bit. However, since Acura is a premium brand, it has some wiggle room to bump up the price without losing buyers. Weight is another potential issue this hypothetical hybrid will face, and was one of the chief complaints with the CR-Z. Looking at the RLX and the RLX Sport Hybrid, the hybrid bits weigh about an extra 340 pounds. That's not insignificant, but added to the turbocharged Civic EX-T coupe's 2,900 pound curb weight, you would have a car that would weigh 3,240 pounds. That's comparable to the very fun Mustang EcoBoost. As long as Acura keeps the weight under 3,500 pounds, the brand should have an entertaining coupe on its hands. The final piece of the puzzle is to make sure it isn't compromised. Every bit of hybrid tech in the NSX is there for performance. It helps eliminate turbo lag, and it improves acceleration and handling.

Honda and Acura recall 124,077 vehicles due to potential brake failure

Honda and Acura are recalling 124,077 total vehicles across numerous model lines due to a part in the brake system that was potentially improperly assembled, which could ultimately lead to brake failure. The models affected include the 2020-2021 Honda Civic, 2020-2023 Ridgeline, 2021-2023 Passport, 2021-2022 Pilot and the 2020 Acura MDX. As for the issue itself, Honda says the brake master cylinder “may have been improperly fastened to the brake booster assembly during production.” Specifically, the tie rod fastener is the problem point. Honda says that if it was improperly assembled, that could result in loose or missing tie rod nuts. If this is the case, when you hit the brakes, a bending load can be placed on the brake booster tie rod studs, which could in turn cause the tie rod studs to break. This then allows the brake master cylinder to separate from the brake booster, which Honda says could result in diminished or lost brake function. Honda says it received a report of brake failure on a 2021 Pilot last year, which prompted the companyÂ’s investigation. There are no crashes, injuries or deaths related to this issue, according to Honda, but it has received two related warranty claims since September 2022. Owner notifications are scheduled to begin on August 7 this year. Honda says it will inspect and replace any missing nuts, and if any brake booster assembly components are damaged, those will be replaced, too. Related video: Recalls Acura Honda Truck Crossover Hatchback SUV Sedan

2023 Acura TLX Type S PMC Edition adds NSX colors to the palette

The 2023 Acura TLX Type S is getting a PMC Edition with some extra-pretty color options derived from the Acura NSX.  Per usual with Acura’s PMC Edition cars, the TLX Type S PMC Edition is hand-built at the same Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio as the NSX is. The regular TLX Type S is right down the road in Marysville, Ohio, so while itÂ’s not a massive location change, the environment in which the PMC cars are built in is entirely different from AcuraÂ’s typical assembly lines. As for the new colors, youÂ’ll be able to choose between Long Beach Blue, Curva Red and 130R White — all of those shades were previously offered on the NSX. In addition to the main shade, all PMC Edition cars will get a Berlina Black (also an NSX shade) painted roof, antenna and door handles. The quad exhaust will also be finished in black chrome instead of the bright chrome that comes standard. You get the same Y-spoke 20-inch wheels as the regular Type S has, but these are finished in a copper paint, and they sure do stand out. Other exterior changes include a carbon fiber lip spoiler and rear diffuser alongside glossy black side sill garnish and model badging. On the inside, Acura uses carbon fiber trim and adds illuminated side sills and unique Type S-badged floor mats. Each exterior color is paired with a single interior option. The Curve Red car gets an Ebony black interior with red stitching. All Long Beach Blue cars get an Orchid (cream) interior with blue stitching. And finally, the 130R White cars will get a red interior. All PMC Edition cars get a serialized plaque on the center console, as well. Similar to other Acura PMC cars of the past, this one is put through the same quality control checks as the NSX, including a dyno check, rough road simulation and paint inspection. TheyÂ’re also given special coverings for transport to the dealer and delivered via fully enclosed single-car carriers. Yes, you should expect the paint to be utterly perfect upon first inspection. Pricing for the PMC Edition isnÂ’t out yet, but expect it to be available when Acura releases pricing for the full lineup of 2023 TLX models. Related video: