2024 Acura Integra Type S is New Compact Powerhouse

The Acura Integra, a compact car previously sold under the Honda brand, is now marketed under the Acura name brand after being dormant in North America for 16 years. Reintroduced in June of 2022, as a 2023 model, the Integra will be positioned as Acura's entry-level offering in North America. With a 5-door liftback design, it draws inspiration from the eleventh-generation Honda Civic. In April 2023, the high-performance Integra Type S emerged, constructed on the eleventh-generation Honda Civic platform. It is the fourth type S performance variant to launch in the last two years under the Acura banner. It has been garnering a lot of fanfare with the press community winning the prestigious North American Car of the Year award for 2023 and securing a spot among the seven finalists for the 2023 Motor Trend Car of the Year award.

The new Acura Type S will feature the most powerful version of the 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo engine ever sold in North America. This direct-injection system and a low-inertia high-flow mono scroll turbo enable increased horsepower and torque across the engine's full operating range along with higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions. This engine cranks out a class-leading 320 hp at 6500 rpm and 310 lb-ft or between 2600 to 4000 rpm, which is 5 hp higher and the same torque compared to the Honda Type R that has been around since 2001 and Acura has sold of 300,000 of these engines in different models. Also, the engine has low maintenance costs with no scheduled maintenance required for 100,000+/- miles or more.

Acura is also known for making great manual transmissions. This new Type S features the only manual transmission in its class with a precision-driven short-throw 6-speed for a cleaner and more rewarding connection with the driver the clutch also comes with an automatic rev-matching system. A standard helical-type limited-slip differential (LSD) puts the engine's power to the pavement effectively. The sound note and the exhaust in Type S feature a unique high-flow exhaust system with a less restrictive straight-through design unleashed through three round exhaust outlets. The is also an active exhaust valve that works in concert with a software tuning program that releases the full potential of the legendary K20C turbo engine giving the powerplant a class-leading specific output of 160 hp/liter.

The specially designed exhaust system also gives Integra Type S a stirring exhaust note that enhances the driving experience. And when it's time to crank it up, Sport+ mode turns it up to 11 with unique 'pops and bangs' for the most engaging experience possible. If you have a vehicle that runs like the wind it has to be able to stop on a dime, so the brakes were given a serious upgrade with larger Brembo discs for the front and four-piston brakes in the back.

The new Integra Type S boasts a wider build, 2.8 inches broader than the standard Integra model, featuring flared wide body fenders, 19-inch wheels, and 265/30 R19 tires for a stronger and more grounded road presence. Its unique 5-door liftback design sets it apart in the premium performance compact category. All front panels before the A-pillars are exclusive to the Type S variant. Notably, the aggressive front design includes a larger open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille and a vented aluminum hood that enhances airflow by 170%, crucial for cooling the more potent turbocharged engine. Improved intercooler air intake contributes to heightened engine performance by supporting increased boost pressure.

The interior is a driver-focused cabin design with premium materials and exclusive high-performance details. It features heated sport seats with Ultrasuede inserts for better support during cornering. The steering wheel and Type S-specific shifter knob are covered in perforated leather with colored stitching. The shifter boot and headrests also carry Type S logos. The car provides clear and concise information with a 10.2-inch Acura Precision Cockpit Driver Information Interface, a 9-inch touchscreen supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and a head-up display. For music lovers, there is a 16-speaker 530-watt ELS STUDIO 3D premium audio system that offers studio-quality sound.

In an automotive world where all the discussion is about the coming electrification of vehicles, it's nice to see a sport performance vehicle mark a triumphant return after 16 years and grab not only headlines but top awards as well. After driving this vehicle for a week, it is easy to see how it became the talk of the automotive press world. With a starting MSRP of $50,800, but no substantial maintenance costs for the first five years, the value of this vehicle is something to respect.

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Acura | Integra