For the 2002 model Acura's goals were to:
- Update the NSX's styling while remaining true to its original design
- Enhance handling and performance
- Improve aerodynamics
In support of these goals, the 2002 NSX has received the following enhancements:
Exterior Styling
- Front
- Headlights changed from halogen pop-up to fixed position HID
- Lower air dam for decreased coefficient of drag and improvement of front to rear lift balance
- Rear
- Redesigned taillight housing
- New Acura badging
- Air diffuser designed into bumper lower
- Redesigned exhaust tips
- Added trunk lip spoiler
- Smoother, more substantial side sills
- Two new exterior colors - Long Beach Blue Pearl and Imola Orange Pearl
- Coefficient of drag reduced from 0.32 to 0.30
Interior Styling
- Six new interior colors - Vivid Blue, Vivid Orange, Vivid Red, Vivid Yellow, Targa Silver, and White - available with corresponding exterior color
- Chrome plating and paint on center panel, door handles and door control panel
- Instrument panel background color changed from black to blue
Suspension
- Front spring rate increased
- Diameter of rear stabilizer bar increased
Wheels
- Front wheel size increased from 16 x 7.0 inches to 17 x 7.0 inches
- Rear wheel size increased from 17 x 8.5 inches to 17 x 9.0 inches
- Wheel is now painted instead of polished and features ribbed spoke design
Tires
- Front tire size increased from 215/45ZR16 to 215/40ZR17
- Rear tire size increased from 245/40ZR17 to 255/40ZR17