To dispel any anticipation, the 320-hp, 2024 Acura Integra Type-S unabashedly emerges as a refined counterpart to the Honda Civic Type R, tailored for the discerning adult. It encompasses spec by spec, all the cherished attributes that define the Type R but presents them in a more mature, sophisticated, and tailored guise. It’s essentially a Type R tailored for a more seasoned demographic – the ‘S’ perhaps subtly hinting at ‘Senior.
It also carries a big boy, adult toy price tag.
With this in mind, it exudes a charming appeal, seamlessly blending performance prowess with a cheerful personality and effortless everyday practicality. Boasting a tech-laden interior that would please even the most devoted Apple iOS enthusiasts, it still demands a driver skilled in the art of three pedals. To top it off, the gear shifter stands out as the finest on this side of Glenda the Good Witch’s magical shoe zapper.
There’s No Place Like Home. There’s No Place Like Home.
It’s far from a mere rehash of the old Integra Type R it’s a world apart. However, it gracefully channels the spirit of that legendary machine’s unwavering dedication to driving pleasure. Every adjustment and refinement undertaken to transform the regular Integra into the Type-S is a deliberate move towards enhancing driver engagement and rewarding it with a tangible sense of satisfaction.
To the untrained eye, the Integra Type-S might easily be dismissed as just another run-of-the-mill commuter. Its silhouette seamlessly blends with other Integras, and in the grand scheme of small sedans, it may not stand out. True to the Integra legacy, the current model is essentially a Civic elevated to near-luxury standards since the 1986 model year. Yet, for those in the know, discerning elements abound, making the Type-S unmistakably distinctive.”
Let’s start with its impressive width. Employing stamped steel front fenders and rear plastic flares, the vehicle boasts a remarkable 2.8-inch expansion over a standard Integra. The design incorporates clever aerodynamic elements, including generous openings to cool the heat exchangers and a vented aluminum hood that enhances airflow through the engine bay. Acura proudly asserts that all the bodywork ahead of the A-pillars is exclusive to the S-Type.
A notable feature at the front is the presence of generously sized air portals on either end. These sizable openings channel air through pipes that gradually taper until they discharge into the wheel wells. Effectively functioning as venturi tunnels integrated into the nose, they serve a dual purpose of efficiently cooling the front brakes while offering downforce with minimal impact on aerodynamic drag.
The rear end is enhanced with a touch of flair, courtesy of a carbon fiber deck spoiler and the familiar three-pipe exhaust layout found in the Civic Type R. Add to the mix the substantial wheels and tires, and the result is an aesthetically pleasing package, albeit with a hint of the spirited charm associated with the Civic Type R, now tempered with a more mature demeanor.
Identical Cousins
The Integra Type-S shares a non-mystical mechanical foundation with the Civic Type R, featuring identical chassis and suspension design, a common 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, and shared transmission components. Both models boast matching wheelbases, tracks, anti-sway bars, brakes, and tires. While Acura rates the Type-S at 320 hp compared to Honda’s 315 hp for the Type-R, the difference stems from the Type-S being optimized for 93-octane fuel.
Notably, despite a more substantial length and slightly heavier weight, the Acura exhibits a mere 31-pound difference in curb weight, showcasing remarkable engineering efficiency. Anticipate similar performance between the Type-S and Type R, with an expected sub-five-second 0 to 60 time, excellent skidpad adhesion (slightly beyond 1.0G), and strong braking capabilities.
Manners Matter
Push the Type-S to its limits, and, much like the Type-R, it will respond assertively. Despite its wide tires and advanced differential, it remains a front-wheel-drive vehicle with the majority of its weight up front—meaning it won’t compensate for reckless behavior.
In Sport and Sport Plus modes, the steering gains noticeable heft, suitable for spirited driving. However, the softer dampening of the normal mode proves ideal for everyday use, acknowledging that not every trip is a race. For those with unique preferences, there’s a customizable “Individual” mode to tailor the driving experience.
Similar to the Type R, the Type-S boasts a rapid 2.1 turn lock-to-lock steering ratio. While the small diameter of the steering wheel might be less comfortable during commutes, it shines in dynamic driving without translating to nervous steering.
Interior-wise, the Civic Type R’s bold red-themed design takes an understated turn in the Integra Type-S. The interior exudes a timeless elegance with well-chosen materials, clean design, and a predominantly classic color palette of blacks, whites, and greys—making it a versatile choice for drivers well into their forties.
Of course, the Integra Type-S comes loaded with electronic features, including a appreciated head-up display that enhances focus during spirited driving. Lane-keeping, radar cruise control, and other safety features are also part of the package.
Inner Mode
While the Civic Type R’s interior resembles a hallucination, saturated with red carpet, red trim, and stitching—an acid trip designed for those immersed in TikTok culture—the Integra Type-S takes a more understated approach. Its interior exudes sophistication that’s unlikely to feel outdated in just a few years. With well-chosen materials, a clean design, and a timeless color palette featuring blacks, whites, and greys, it’s an interior that transcends age, suitable for drivers well into their forties.
Of course, all the essential electronic features are on board. The standout gadget is the head-up display, simplifying focus during spirited driving. For those valuing lane-keeping, radar cruise control, and an array of safety features, the Integra Type-S has you covered.
Stickered, Shocked, And Startled
Surprise! The Integra Type-S is making its way to dealerships soon, sporting a base price of $51,995 (including a $1,195 destination charge). That’s a hefty $7,105 premium over the Civic Type R’s base price, but the decision-making process goes beyond the initial sticker shock.
Civic Type R units are commanding well over MSRP, with dealers fetching around $60,000. In contrast, Acura dealers might accessorize the early arrivals of the Integra Type-S, potentially seeking substantial markups. Depending on market dynamics, the actual price difference between the Type R and Type-S may not be as substantial as it appears.
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