The Reason Acura Created a Sports Car Concept to Preview the Upcoming RDX
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Yesterday, Acura unveiled its Nexera Vision concept sports car, and shortly thereafter, I had a conversation with Yasutake Tsuchida, the design genius behind the stylish coupe featuring butterfly doors.
Despite my persistent inquiries, Tsuchida maintained the official stance that this was merely a design exercise; however, he did share a few insights about his latest creation for the Acura brand.
When I inquired why the announcement specifically labeled the Nexera Vision as a design preview for the forthcoming RDX— which is clearly not a sporty coupe— Acura opted to showcase a sports-car concept instead of a crossover concept.
“As designers, it’s crucial for us to express our vision through this type of sporty vehicle,” Tsuchida explained to The Drive. “That’s why we present our vision in this manner and exhibit these proportions.”
Tsuchida, who designed the attractive Mazda3 and CX-7 before taking on the role of Acura’s Creative Director and Vice President of Auto Design, emphasized that this concept is intended solely to illustrate Acura's direction in terms of exterior and interior design language, as well as to showcase upcoming technologies and materials in production. These innovations include “phantom lighting” on the exterior and various sustainable materials in the interior, such as recycled aluminum, Alcantara, certified post-consumer recycled polyester, and CircuLeather.
When I pressed him on whether brand enthusiasts could expect another sporty coupe to join the lineup one day, Tsuchida replied, “Personally, I want the car.” Since Acura did not disclose the theoretical drivetrain powering the Nexera Vision concept sports car in its press release, I asked the design executive which engine he would prefer for that vehicle.
After a brief pause and a chuckle, Tsuchida simply stated: “Something fast.”
Exactly two years ago, The Drive reported on an “NSX-type” performance EV that was set to be part of Acura’s product range. Could this be the design for such a vehicle? Perhaps. Will it still be an EV? Probably not.
I have a feeling this concept is more significant than Acura claims it to be, but I guess I’ll just have to wait and see.
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The Reason Acura Created a Sports Car Concept to Preview the Upcoming RDX
When inquired about the engine that might drive the sporty concept, Acura's creative director responded succinctly, "Something fast."