Pininfarina and JAS Motorsport Unveil the NSX Tensei Restomod

Daily Car

22/04/2026

Italian design house Pininfarina, in collaboration with JAS Motorsport, has provided new details on its upcoming project: the Tensei. This vehicle is a modern reinterpretation, or "restomod," of the original Honda NSX. The project focuses on enhancing the classic supercar's design and performance while preserving its core driving characteristics, notably through the inclusion of a naturally aspirated engine and a manual transmission.

Redesigned Body and Proportions

The Tensei features significant changes to its exterior. The vehicle has a longer wheelbase, a wider track, and a shorter rear overhang compared to the original NSX, giving it a more aggressive and planted stance. The body panels are constructed from carbon fiber, a lightweight and strong material common in modern high-performance cars.

Despite the modern updates, the design retains key elements from the original 1990s model. The iconic pop-up headlights and the integrated rear spoiler have been carried over and updated for the new design. Pininfarina states the flared fenders and widened rear create a muscular appearance reminiscent of classic Italian sports cars.

A Focus on Analog Performance

Under the engine cover, the Tensei is powered by a naturally aspirated V6 engine. "Naturally aspirated" means the engine takes in air without the aid of a turbocharger or supercharger, a design known for its direct throttle response and linear power delivery. This engine is an evolution of the original NSX's architecture, engineered for increased power and torque.

Paired with the V6 is a six-speed manual transmission. This combination is a deliberate departure from the current industry trend of using turbocharged engines and dual-clutch automatic gearboxes. The choice emphasizes a pure, driver-focused experience that has become increasingly rare in the supercar market.

Interior and Production Details

While images have not been released, the interior is also receiving a comprehensive update. The plan is to maintain the original's driver-centric cockpit and excellent visibility while introducing higher-quality materials and bespoke switchgear for a more premium feel.

The project also revives a historical connection, as Pininfarina collaborated with Honda on the 1984 HP-X concept, which was a precursor to the NSX. The Tensei will be hand-built at the JAS Motorsport facility near Milan, with final customization handled by Pininfarina in Turin. A full reveal, including pricing and production numbers, is scheduled for 2026.

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