05 Aug 08 14:03
Honda is rethinking its strategy for its Acura brand and planning to broaden its line-up, rather than simply offering upmarket versions of existing Honda models.
The all-new NSX supercar is still a way off production (2010), but will give Acura a flagship model in North America (the NSX will be sold as a Honda in Europe, as before).
Honda is also considering several standalone models exclusive to the Acura model-line, including a sports coupe or coupe-convertible to replace the former RSX and a Mercedes CLS-style four-door luxury 'coupe'. These models would be rear-wheel or four-wheel-drive, reports suggest, to differentiate them from the front-wheel-drive mainstream Hondas.
Acura was launched as Honda's answer to Toyota's Lexus and Nissan's Infiniti. Though Honda is not thought to be planning to introduce the brand in Europe, a small number of these upscale vehicles could be imported if there is sufficient demand. And since Acura models are also sold in Japan, which is a right-hand-drive market, UK sales are a possibility.
