Acura RS-X Prototype Makes World Debut
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DETROIT, Jan. 8 Acura debuted its RS-X sports coupe prototype at the North
American International Auto Show today, providing the world with a first
glimpse of the technology and styling direction for an all-new Acura production
vehicle to be introduced later this year.
"The RS-X provides a clear indication of the direction we are headed with
the new sports coupe that will replace the Integra," said Dick Colliver,
executive vice president of Acura. "With the introduction of a production
version later this year, Acura's stable of class-leading luxury performance
vehicles will be even stronger."
Drawing on Acura's heritage of performance and precision engineering, the
RS-X prototype utilizes advanced new engine technology in combination with
rigid unit body construction, a highly aerodynamic body and sport-tuned
chassis to deliver exhilarating style and performance in a luxury-class sports
coupe. The RS-X also maintains Acura's leadership in the areas of occupant
safety and low emissions, providing state-of-the-art safety features, while
meeting Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV) standards.
Providing for the vehicle's high performance, low emissions and
outstanding fuel efficiency is an advanced new-generation 2.0-liter, 16-valve
DOHC engine with i-VTEC "intelligent" valve-control that produces
approximately 200 horsepower. Honda's patented i-VTEC combines VTEC (Variable
Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) with new VTC (Variable Timing
Control) to continuously adjust camshaft phase for enhanced performance and
efficiency across a broad power band. Power is transmitted to the front
wheels via a close ratio six-speed manual transmission.
The RS-X prototype's exterior styling communicates a message of power and
precision with short front and rear overhangs, sweeping curves and sharply
chiseled accent lines. The vehicle's strong and solid stance is enhanced with
18-inch BBS light alloy wheels and 225/45R18 Michelin tires. A distinctive
front fascia is highlighted by large, bright multi-reflector headlights,
deeply beveled chin spoiler and signature Acura grille. The rear decklid
features a sporty brow that extends above the four-lamp taillights and is
complemented by a large-mouth chrome exhaust finisher.
The RS-X interior features a cockpit-style driving environment with
driver-oriented instruments and control surfaces. Interior highlights include
perforated black leather trim, deeply-contoured Recaro sport seats, small
diameter steering wheel, short-throw gearshift lever, and silver-colored
reverse inset gauge cluster. A large greenhouse, low profile cowl and slim A-
and B-pillars provide for an open, airy feeling and excellent outward
visibility.
A full complement of luxury interior features includes power windows,
mirrors and door locks, steering wheel-mounted cruise control, power moonroof
and AM/FM/Cassette/CD stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and trunk mounted
subwoofer.
The RS-X prototype's exceptional handling and braking are provided by its
track-tuned fully independent front and rear suspension with large stabilizer
bars and large-diameter 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-Lock Braking System
(ABS).
Exhilarating style and performance, world-class safety, class-leading fuel
efficiency and low emissions combine to make the RS-X Prototype a forward
looking sports coupe with Acura quality, precision and craftsmanship at the
heart of its design.
The production version of Acura's RS-X will debut at the New York Auto
Show in April 2001.
Acura RS-X Prototype Summary
The RS-X is a sports coupe prototype that offers the first glimpse of the
technology and styling direction for the all-new Integra replacement to be
introduced later this year.
RS-X Prototype Key Features:
* The RS-X prototype borrows on Acura's heritage of sports car racing and
precision engineering
* The RS-X combines a new generation i-VTEC engine, a highly aerodynamic
body and sport-tuned chassis to deliver exhilarating style and
performance in a luxury-class sports coupe
* Key features of the Acura RS-X Prototype include:
-- 2.0-liter, 16-valve DOHC engine producing approximately 200
horsepower
-- DOHC i-VTEC "intelligent" system with variable cam timing for
enhanced performance and efficiency across the power band
-- Close ratio 6-speed manual transmission
-- Track-tuned fully independent front and rear suspension
-- 4-Wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system (ABS)
-- Sweeping curves and sharply chiseled accent lines
-- 225/45R18 Michelin Tires and BBS light alloy wheels
-- Distinctive front fascia highlighted by large, bright multi-
reflector headlights and deeply beveled chin spoiler
-- Sporty rear fascia complemented by a four-lamp taillight assembly
-- Recaro sport seats and perforated black leather trim
-- Power moonroof
-- AM/FM/Cassette/CD stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and trunk
mounted subwoofer