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Acura's latest highly-refined Integra Type S delivers five more horses than the Civic Type R with its 320-horsepower turbo engine, but with an additional $7,000 slapped on the price tag, is it worth the money?
by Stanley on February 5, 2024, 09:10Acura’s Integra Type S is the high-performance version of the traditional Integra, a compact sports car that Acura recently revived after a long hiatus. The first-ever Integra debuted in 1986 as one of the first models of the newly launched Acura brand.
Based on the Honda Civic, the Integra offered more power, refinement, and features than its mainstream counterpart. It also spawned several high-performance variants, such as the Integra Type R, widely regarded as one of the best front-wheel-drive cars ever.
To the dismay of enthusiasts, Honda discontinued the Acura nameplate in 2006 after four generations of production. However, in 2021, it announced the Integra’s revival for the 2024 model year, including the most powerful and best-performing Integra ever - the 2024 Integra Type S.
The all-new Integra features a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine supplying a respectable 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, bolted to a six-speed manual transmission with a helical limited-slip differential.
The external design is bold and aggressive, with widebody styling and flares, enlarged air ducts and vents, a rear diffuser, and triple, center-mounted exhaust outlets with an active exhaust valve system.
Step inside, and you’re treated to the interior, which is sporty and refined, with leather-trimmed seats, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9.0-inch touchscreen display, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D sound system.
The Integra Type S costs $52,999, $7,000 more than the mechanically similar Honda Civic Type R, while offering just five more horsepower. With such a premium price tag, is the Integra still worth considering over the Type R? Let’s help you decide!
- The latest Type S is the most powerful and engaging Integra to date
- It comes with a well-tuned chassis and features for high-performance driving
- Boasting an aggressive design that matches its performance
- A premium interior with exclusive Type S high-performance details
- Its performance is backed by vital safety and driver assistance systems
- Conclusion
The latest Type S is the most powerful and engaging Integra to date
Empowering the Integra Type S is a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, delivering 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, marking a substantial 120-horsepower and 118-pound-feet increase compared to the standard Integra and five more horsepower over the Civic Type R.
The power generated is channeled to the front wheels through the Type-R’s six-speed manual transmission, known for its precision, short throws, and automatic rev-matching system. The clutch engagement is both smooth and intuitive.
A standard limited-slip differential enhances traction, facilitating a zero to 60 mph acceleration in 5.1 seconds, just 0.2 seconds behind the 2023 Civic Type R. The claimed top speed is an impressive 167 mph.
The Integra Type S offers a refined experience for daily driving compared to its hardcore Type R counterpart. Activating Sport+ mode amplifies the driving pleasure, thanks to a less restrictive straight-through exhaust design, delivering a popping exhaust note. However, some may feel that the experience is somewhat interrupted by noticeable road noise.
| Power Specs | 2024 Acura Integra Type S | 2024 Honda Civic Type R |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $52,999 | $45,890 |
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.0-L inline 4-cylinder | Turbocharged 2.0-L 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 320 hp | 315 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| 0 To 60 Acceleration | 5.1 seconds | TBA (2023 model’s time is 4.9 seconds) |
| Top Speed | 167 mph | 169 mph |
It comes with a well-tuned chassis and features for high-performance driving
The Integra Type S incorporates an innovative dual-axis front suspension and boasts significantly wider front and rear tracks than the standard model, ensuring superior road holding and high-speed stability. This design effectively minimizes torque steer, aided by a thicker front stabilizer bar that enhances response.
Included as a standard feature, the Adaptive Damper System, exclusively tuned for the Type S, offers tailored damping characteristics for each drive mode: Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, enabling precise control over ride and handling, adapting seamlessly to diverse driving conditions.
It’s also equipped with 19-inch Shark Gray alloy wheels, larger yet lighter than the 18-inch ones on the Integra A-Spec. They’re wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S high-performance summer tires for exceptional grip.
To deliver remarkable braking performance, the Type S features substantial 13.8-inch two-piece front rotors paired with 4-piston Brembo monobloc aluminum calipers, complemented by 12.0-inch rears.
Although its high-speed capabilities are impressive for a front-wheel-drive car, similarly-priced European competitors such as the Audi S3 and BMW M235i, available in rear or all-wheel drive, will provide a superior driving experience when pushed to the limits in comparison.
Boasting an aggressive design that matches its performance
The Integra Type S boasts a distinctive aesthetic from all perspectives. Its aggressive front fascia is marked by an enlarged open-surface rendition of Acura’s Diamond Pentagon grille, complemented by a vented aluminum hood to enhance airflow. A widened opening beneath the grille directs air to the intercooler, supporting increased boost pressure for enhanced engine performance.
The side profile is characterized by boldly flared fenders, contributing to a muscular stance and a commanding presence on the road. The rear view features a gloss black diffuser and a decklid spoiler, which add downforce.
The three prominent center-mounted exhaust outlets, a first for a Type S model, contribute to its aggressive appearance. While sharing some similarities with the Civic Type R, the Integra Type S offers a more mature vibe, partly attributed to its more subdued styling.
The Type S is offered in seven striking exterior colors, including the exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl gold shade. Three interior color options are available: Red, Black, and Orchid. Acura offers various accessories for those seeking further customization, such as a carbon fiber rear lip spoiler, carbon fiber mirror caps, a black illuminated front Acura badge, and 19-inch wheels with a copper metallic finish.
A premium interior with exclusive Type S high-performance details
Acura’s driver-focused cabin accommodates four passengers with premium materials and exclusive high-performance details. The front Sport seats, equipped with heating functionality, are power-adjustable and include perforated inserts. They also feature firmer bolsters to provide better support during high-G turns. The steering wheel comes in perforated leather with colored stitching, and all of these features set the Type S apart since they’re not available on the Civic Type R.
Inside, the cabin is equipped with a 10.2-inch gauge cluster and a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Additional tech features include a wireless phone charging pad, a head-up display, and a 16-speaker 530-watt ELS Studio 3D premium audio system.
On the center console, you’ll find the Type S-specific shifter knob featuring a dark anodized finish and a distinctive red shift pattern. For those keen on every detail of the six-speed stick, an optional Integra Type R-inspired titanium shift knob is also available.
There’s ample room at the back for its two rear-seat passengers, although sitting three across like in the standard model would be nice. It’s hard to understand why Acura inserts two cupholders in the middle of the bench to eliminate seating for a third rear passenger. Arguably, a folding armrest with integrated cupholders would’ve offered a more practical solution, but admittedly, this design is likely to provide additional support for the lucky two.
Regarding cargo space, the Integra Type S stands out with its liftback design, which provides a distinct advantage in cargo capacity- measuring 24.3 cubic feet behind the 60/40 split rear seatbacks. It’s the only vehicle in its segment with a liftgate.
Its performance is backed by vital safety and driver assistance systems
Acura prioritizes safety in the Type S in terms of features and construction. The model incorporates advanced driver and front passenger airbag technology designed to reduce injuries in offset collisions. Additionally, front knee and rear outboard side impact airbags contribute to comprehensive safety measures.
Standard driver-assistance features encompass lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. It’s worth noting that the manual transmission variant omits the low-speed follow and traffic jam assist functions that come with the adaptive cruise control.
Conclusion
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S appeals to enthusiasts and everyday drivers, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and style. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivers 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Thus, it offers Civic Type R performance in a more mature package.
Although the additional five horsepower doesn’t justify the extra $7,000 upcharge, it offers more value in terms of features. It also boasts a dual personality. Depending on your mood, it can be a calm, comfortable cruiser or a spirited, agile canyon carver with a loud and proud exhaust popper.
Admittedly, rivals like the Audi S3 and the BMW M235i will offer a more superior and engaging driving experience for similar money. Still, the Type S stands out with its manual gearbox option.
FAQs
What is the horsepower of the Acura Integra Type S?
The Acura Integra Type S packs a powerful 320-horsepower turbocharged engine.
How fast can the Integra Type S accelerate from 0 to 60 mph?
The Integra Type S can reach 60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
Does the Integra Type S offer automatic transmission?
The Integra Type S comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission.
What is the top speed of the Integra Type S?
The Integra Type S claims a top speed of 167 mph.
What safety features does the Integra Type S include?
Standard safety features of the Integra Type S encompass advanced airbag technology, lane-departure warning, automated emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Highly Anticipated 2024 Acura Integra Type S Delivers Ultimate Street Performance; On Sale in June
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Integra Type S elevates Acura Precision Crafted Performance to new levels with class-leading power and dynamic capabilities paired with premium features and refinement
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Most powerful, best performing Integra ever boasts a 3201 horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, six-speed manual transmission, and 4-piston Brembo® front brakes
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Instantly recognizable as a Type S, the high-performance Integra features a substantially wider stance with 2.8-inch blistered fenders housing high performance summer tires
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Premium technologies include 9-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Head Up Display and 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D® audio
Making its public debut this weekend at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the 2024 Acura Integra Type S delivers a new interpretation of ultimate street performance for a new generation of enthusiast drivers.
Featuring a high-revving four-cylinder engine producing a class-leading 3201 horsepower, the new turbocharged Integra Type S is true to Acura’s legacy of high-performance Integras and rich history of Type S performance variants. Standard hardware includes a turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC® engine, class-exclusive 6-speed manual transmission, limited slip differential and performance-tuned Adaptive Damper System. Powerful Brembo® front brakes and lightweight 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance summer tires complete the dynamic package.
The fourth Acura Type S performance variant to launch in the last 24 months, the Integra Type S takes Integra’s styling to the next level with a bold and aggressive wide body design, dynamic center-mounted triple exhaust outlets, large front air intakes, hood vent and a rear diffuser that immediately communicate its high-performance capabilities.
"The new Acura Integra Type S puts turbocharged Type S performance and design at the gateway to our brand," said Emile Korkor, Assistant Vice President, Acura National Sales. "The new Integra just won the 2023 North American Car of the Year™ award and Integra Type S builds upon its incredible performance with significant enhancements to all elements of the driving experience without compromising interior refinement or daily drivability."
For those looking to take the Integra Type S even further, the high-performance sedan is available with an extensive list of Genuine Acura Accessories, including a carbon fiber rear lip spoiler, carbon fiber mirror caps, black illuminated front Acura badge, copper metallic finished 19-inch wheels and an Integra Type R-inspired titanium shift knob.
The 2024 Integra Type S will go on sale this June.
High-Performance Proportions and Design
The new Integra Type S is substantially wider (2.8-inches) than the standard Integra, with boldly flared wide body fenders and larger 19-inch wheels and 265/30 R19 tires for a more muscular stance and planted road presence. Distinct from every angle, Integra Type S is also the only vehicle in the premium performance compact segment to offer a flexible 5-door liftback design.
Every body panel forward of the A-pillars is unique to Type S. The new more aggressive front fascia is dominated by a larger open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille which combines with a new vented aluminum hood to improve airflow by 170%, cooling the larger and much more powerful turbocharged engine. A wider lower opening feeds air to the intercooler to support higher boost pressure, further improving engine performance.
A redesigned rear fascia reveals three large center-mounted exhaust outlets, a first for a Type S model. A new gloss black diffuser and a decklid spoiler intensify downforce.
Type S badges positioned on the front grille, each front fender and the trunk lid further distinguish this high-performance model. Harkening back to the iconic 3rd generation model, "Integra" once again is embossed in the front and rear fascias.
Integra Type S is available in seven striking colors, including the Type S exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl. Three interior options are available including Red, Black and Orchid.
Most Powerful and Engaging Integra Ever
At the heart of the Integra Type S is a high-revving DOHC turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC® engine with direct injection, unique throttle tuning for quick throttle response and 33% greater displacement than the Integra’s standard 1.5-liter engine. With 320 horsepower (SAE net @ 6,500 rpm) and 310 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net @ 2,600 to 4,000 rpm) – an increase of 120 hp and 118 lb.-ft. over the standard Integra – the Type S model has both class-leading power and a class-leading power-to-weight ratio of just 10.1 pounds per horsepower.
A new high-flow exhaust system, exclusive to the Integra Type S, unleashes the full potential of the award-winning 2.0-liter turbocharged (K20C1) engine. In combination with software tuning, it gives the 4-cylinder engine its highest-ever horsepower rating in North America, and a class-leading specific output of 160 hp/liter.
The less restrictive straight-through exhaust design also enhances the driving experience with a stirring Type S-exclusive exhaust note. Thanks to an active exhaust valve, Integra Type S delivers a distinct auditory experience in each driving mode, and when it’s time to crank it up, Sport+ mode turns it up to 11 with show stopping "pops and bangs" for the most engaging experience possible.
Acura is known for making great shifting manual transmissions, and the Integra Type S features the only manual transmission in its class, a precise, short-throw 6-speed with an automatic rev-matching system for an intimate and rewarding connection with the driver. A standard helical-type limited-slip differential (LSD) puts the engine’s substantial power to the pavement effectively.
High Performance Chassis Dynamics
For ultimate road holding and high-speed stability, Integra Type S features an innovative dual-axis front suspension design and significantly wider front and rear tracks than the standard Integra (+3.5 inches in the front and +1.9 inches in the rear). The dual-axis system also greatly reduces torque steer, primarily through a 0.75-inch reduction in steering axis offset. A thicker (+2 mm) 29.0 mm front stabilizer bar improves response.
Tuned exclusively for the Integra Type S is a standard Adaptive Damper System (ADS). Controlled through the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS), with distinct damping characteristics in Comfort, Sport and Sport+ driving modes. The specially tuned ADS provides precise control of ride and handling with optimized damping curves to suit driving conditions.
Lightweight 19 x 9.5-inch Shark Gray alloy wheels, with a new 10-spoke, NSX Type S-inspired design, are substantially larger yet 2 lbs. lighter than the 18-inch Integra A-Spec wheels. The new wheels are wrapped in sticky 265/30 R19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S high-performance summer tires.
For exceptional braking performance, Integra Type S employs massive 13.8-inch two-piece front rotors (+1.5 inches than the standard Integra) and Brembo® 4-piston monobloc aluminum calipers. Larger rear rotors measure 12.0-inches in diameter (+0.9 inches). Functional ducts in the front fascia improve brake cooling performance by routing air to the front rotors.
Premium High-Performance Interior Experience
The driver-focused cabin of the Integra Type S features four-position seating, premium materials and exclusive Type S high-performance details. Heated front Sport seats with perforated Ultrasuede® inserts and firmer seat bolsters better hold the body during high-G cornering. Perforated leather with colored stitching covers the steering wheel and the Type S-specific shifter knob, which is dark anodized and topped with a racy red shift pattern.
A black Ultrasuede® shift boot with colored stitching continues the high-performance theme. Type S logos appear on the steering wheel, shifter boot surround and the front seat headrests.
For an elevated level of everyday comfort and refinement, the high-performance Integra Type S also features class-leading standard technology, including a 10.2-inch Acura Precision Cockpit™ Driver Information Interface, a 9-inch color touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, wireless phone charging and a head-up display. A 16-speaker 530-watt ELS STUDIO 3D® premium audio system delivers a powerful listening experience with studio-quality sound.
For its two rear seat passengers, Integra Type S offers class-leading rear seat legroom (37.4 inches), a benefit of its long wheelbase. To support active lifestyles, Integra’s class-exclusive five-door body style also gives it a distinct edge in cargo capacity compared to its rivals, with 24.3 cubic-feet of cargo space behind its 60/40 split rear seatbacks, which fold flat to greatly expand the available space to carry larger gear like a mountain bike or surf boards.
Standard safety and driver assistive equipment includes Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, advanced driver and front passenger airbag technology specifically designed to cradle the head and reduce the risk of brain injuries, especially in offset collisions, front knee airbags, rear outboard side impact airbags and the AcuraWatch™ suite of safety and driver assistive technologies.
Manufactured in the U.S.
The new 2024 Integra Type S will be built exclusively at the Marysville Auto Plant in Marysville, Ohio, on the same production line as the Integra, Acura TLX and TLX Type S*. The K20C engine is built exclusively at the Anna Engine Plant in Ohio, which also produces the turbo V6 that powers the Acura TLX Type S and MDX Type S.
Stanley
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