The 2024 Acura Integra Type S: Big Power, Performance, and Refinement
Acura, Honda’s luxury division, refuses to go quietly as the automotive industry transitions toward electric vehicles. The return of the Integra model has been met with acclaim, earning awards such as the 2023 North American Car of the Year and a 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems award. Acura has unveiled the high-performance variant of the Integra, the 2024 Acura Integra Type S. This manual-only powerhouse caters to the demand for big power in a small package, capturing the essence of Acura’s famed S treatment.
Exterior Design: The 2024 Acura Integra Type S retains the familiar design cues of the Integra but with notable enhancements. Design elements such as the functional hood scoop, wider diamond grille, larger front air intakes, 19-inch Michelin Pilot 4S tires, and four-piston Brembo brake rotors contribute to the car’s sporty appearance, while the triple exhaust finishers not only look intimidating but also produce an intimidating roar. The 2024 Integra Type S exudes a sleek and aggressive aesthetic, with the “Integra” stamp on the bumper and Type S badging adding to its identity.
Interior Features: Acura has focused on making the Integra Type S sportier, resulting in a 2+2 seating configuration. The interior showcases a red color theme, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The heavily bolstered 12-way powered heated seats feature UltraSuede inserts with Type S embossed on the front headrests. The Integra Type S offers an easy-to-use nine-inch infotainment system, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 5.3-inch head-up display. Additional features include a heated steering wheel, wireless charging, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The liftback design provides ample cargo space of almost 700 liters, making it a practical choice for drivers who value their space.
Powertrain and Performance: Under the hood, the 2024 Acura Integra Type S houses a tweaked version of the 2.0L VTEC turbocharged engine found in the Honda Civic Type R. With 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, this engine delivers impressive performance. Paired with a six-speed short-throw manual gearbox, power is sent to the front wheels. The Type S showcases exceptional acceleration, with the ability to reach The Type S’s driving dynamics are a testament to Acura’s engineering prowess, offering precise handling, sharp steering, and an engaging driving experience.
Driving Experience and Refinement: The 2024 Acura Integra Type S excels in delivering an unforgettable driving experience while maintaining a level of practicality suitable for daily use. Acura has made notable improvements in the suspension tuning, resulting in a more settled ride compared to the Type R. The Type S maintains exceptional grip and agility, providing a confident and enjoyable ride on various road conditions. The modified exhaust system produces a captivating sound, further enhancing the driving experience.
Comparisons and Pricing: The 2024 Acura Integra Type S competes with luxury models such as the Audi S3, BMW M235i Gran Coupe, and Mercedes-AMG CLA35. While these competitors offer all-wheel drive and automatic transmissions, the Integra Type S stands out with its manual-only transmission and engaging driving dynamics. Acura positions the Type S as a more mature and refined alternative to the Honda Civic Type R. The base price of $58,329 reflects its premium positioning, surpassing the Type R by $6,368. However, the Integra Type S justifies its higher price tag with its superior refinement and daily driving capabilities.
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S is a remarkable machine that combines big power, performance, and refinement in a compact package. It retains the driving dynamics of the Honda Civic Type R while offering a more mature and comfortable driving experience. With its aggressive design, impressive powertrain, and engaging driving dynamics, the Integra Type S caters to driving enthusiasts who appreciate the thrill of a manual transmission. While it faces stiff competition from its luxury rivals, the Integra Type S sets itself apart with its unique combination of performance, refinement, and exclusivity.