Patent images reveal mid-engined Honda/Acura sports car
Leaked patent drawings show a new mid-engined sports car carrying Honda and Acura badges, hinting at a possible roadster or targa variant linked to the NSX.
Patent images showing a mid-engined sports car with Honda and Acura badging have surfaced online, giving the clearest indication yet that Honda is developing a new sports model. The images, which depict a low-slung coupe with a detachable front roof section, were first published by Dutch outlet Telegraaf.
The car’s proportions and details suggest close ties to the second-generation NSX, but with a shorter wheelbase and a more compact profile. The detachable roof panel hints at a roadster or targa configuration, which would set it apart from the standard NSX coupe. The patent images do not confirm whether this is a standalone model or a convertible version of the current NSX.
Honda has not commented on the leak or confirmed any production plans. The company’s history with mid-engined sports cars, including the original NSX and the S660 kei roadster, has led to speculation that this could be a smaller, more accessible sports car to sit below the NSX in the range. Previous reports have suggested Acura is considering a so-called “baby NSX” for the US market, but no official details have been released.
Design cues and possible positioning
The patent images show a car with sharp headlights, pronounced front and rear fenders, and a mid-mounted engine layout. The roof design appears modular, allowing for open-top driving. These features align with recent trends among high-performance sports cars, including rivals such as the Alfa Romeo 4C and the Porsche 718 Boxster. The use of both Honda and Acura badges in the drawings suggests the car is intended for global markets, likely under different brand names depending on region.
Potential debut and next steps
Industry speculation points to a possible concept debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, which opens to the public in September. If confirmed, the unveiling would give Honda a platform to gauge interest in a mid-engined sports car positioned below the NSX. Until an official announcement, the leaked patent images remain the strongest evidence of Honda’s plans in this segment.
For more on leaked sports car designs, see our coverage of the2015 Porsche 911 GT3 RS patent images.
