The newly reborn Acura Integra is about to get a sportier upgrade, Honda’s premium division on Monday confirming long-standing rumors that an Integra Type S is in the pipeline and set to make its debut next year.
The automaker provided minimal detail, along with some handout images of a modestly camouflaged Type S running laps at the Honda Tochigi R&D center in Japan. From what it’s saying about the sports sedan it sounds like it will make extensive use of powertrain and other components already in use for the more mainstream Honda Civic Type R.
“Promising ultimate street performance and driver engagement, the Integra Type S will be powered by a high-revving 2.0-liter VTEC turbocharged engine producing over 300 horsepower and paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission and limited slip differential,” Acura said in a short statement.
Summer 2023 launch planned
“More details to be shared closer to launch,” it added, noting that the Integra Type S will be badged as a 2024 model when it reaches showrooms next summer.
So, what else do we know? And what might we cautiously assume?
Power and performance
To start with, the 2.0-liter VTEC turbo-4 is the same engine used in the newly launched Honda Civic Type R. In that somewhat more down-market offering, the powertrain punches out 315 hp and 310 pound-feet of torque. It’s safe to expect the Acura Integra Type S will at least match, if not exceed, those numbers.
And, as Honda now has confirmed, the Acura package also will be offered with a stick shift, much as the Integra now offers with the less sporty Integra A Spec. But the limited-slip differential should make it easier to ensure all the torque from the Type S will be directed to the ground. That will be a must if, as we expect, the Integra package is also going to push power to the front wheels only.
Ride and handling
As for ride and handling, we’re completely confident the Type S will bring a significant upgrade to the Integra’s base suspension — much as Honda did with the Civic Type R. A handful of colleagues who drove a pre-production prototype suggest the Type S has a more solid and well-planted ride that’s notable when cornering. It also boasts a heavier and more precise steering feel.
Anticipate the Integra Type S will come with unique rubber, most likely Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires wrapped around distinctive 19-inch alloy wheels.
Design and pricing
The premium nature of the Acura model means it won’t have all those scoops, nor the big wing, found on the boy racer Civic Type R. Nonetheless, even the camo on the prototype can’t hide the fact that the Type S will see some sportier body updates. Likewise, reports from Japan indicate the Integra interior won’t bring nearly as aggressive update. There will be more bolstered seating and distinct new gauges and aluminum pedals are a strong possibility.
As for competition, expect to see the 2024 Acura Integra Type S go up against compact European models like the BMW M235i Gran Coupe and the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35. Both of those offer all-wheel drive, however, so that should mean a price advantage for the Japanese sport sedan.
As for pricing, we’ll have to wait for that — though you’re welcome to draw a conclusion from these comparisons. The Integra A-Spec starts around $32,000. Meanwhile, the new Civic Type R pushes $43,000.
