Acura is heading back to the Pikes Peak Hill Climb later this month. They're bringing a pair of TLXs, an NSX, and an unlikely surprise: a modified RDX.
It's the seventh time in a row that Acura has raced to the clouds. This year, they're bringing something extra special. An RDX with a bigger turbo, an electric supercharger, and more power. The 2.0L turbo four gets a big boost from 272 to 350 hp, with 330 lb-ft to go with it. The extra power comes from a bigger turbo, but also a new 48-volt micro hybrid system.
That extra electrical system includes an electric supercharger to help reduce turbo lag as the race-ready RDX approaches the 4,300 m summit of the peak. The racer keeps the 10-speed automatic from the standard RDX but tweaks the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system to send more power to the rear. The crossover gets a stripped interior, new front brakes, and 19-inch wheels with Pirelli race tires. It will be running in the exhibition class.
Acura will also be sending the TLX A-Spec that won the exhibition class last year. It will get new suspension tuning and some revisions to the 3.5L turbo V6 that makes 500 hp. It's also lighter this year, with improved aerodynamics.
A TLX GT prepared by longtime Acura race team RealTime Racing will compete in the open class. The all-wheel drive touring car set a class record last year and finished on the overall podium. The twin-turbo V6 from the Pirelli World Challenge Series car gets more power and unique tuning to deal with the altitude. It gets more downforce this year and will have veteran Acura racer Peter Cunningham behind the wheel.
Finally, the production-based NSX that set a record in the Time Attack 1 class will return. The hybrid record-holder has been made lighter, and it has a bigger wing and front splitter along with bigger turbos.
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb runs June 24th in Colorado.
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