Acura Integra, the car you have been waiting for is finally here. The base model did not meet all expectations, but this new 2024 Type S performance version with 320 horsepower ensures the Integra will remain a part of the sport compact conversation. The Type S, like the Integra standard, borrows many components from the Honda Civic. In this case, however, these components are from the hot Civic Type R hatchback. This includes the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine that Acura uses to produce 320 horsepower and torque of 310-pound feet.
2024 Acura Integra Type-S Review
Acura claims that the Integra has an exhaust system unique to it, which is why the Integra produces 5 more horsepower than the Civic. It could be a way to brag, but we believe the acceleration of the two cars will be comparable. The Acura’s curb weight claims are around 30 pounds more than that of the Civic Type R. The Type S is only available with a six-speed manual gearbox that has a rev-matching function. A limited-slip diff is also standard.
The chassis upgrade is also included. Integra’s front and rear tracks have been widened, and it has the same dual-axis suspension system as the Civic Type R to reduce torque steer. Adaptive dampers are also available on the Integra ASpec and adjust based upon the selected drive mode, which for the Type S is Comfort, Sport, or Sport+. The brakes have been upgraded to larger rotors on the front, while the lightweight 19-inch wheel is wrapped with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Summer tires.
Integra’s looks are more subdued than those of the Civic. Its air intakes, splitter, and rear diffuser, for example, look less aggressive. Integra’s active engine exhaust promises to be even louder than Civic’s with lots of bangs and pops when in Sport+ mode. Seven colors are available, including white, blue, and the gold Tiger Eye Pearl color on the TLX Type S and MDX Type S.
Features
The Type S has bolstered front seats that come in red, black, or white. They are covered in a combination of leather and suede. Some features are not available on the Civic Type R. These include a head-up screen and a 16-speaker ELS audio system. The driver’s seat has a lumbar adjustment and is power adjustable. The Type S loses its rear center seat, making it a four-seater. The 9.0-inch touchscreen has Apple CarPlay wireless and Android Auto capabilities.
Acura claims that the Type S’s wheel and tire package is lighter than Integra A-Spec. The wheels have Michelin Pilot Sport 4S rubber, just like the Type R. However, there is no information yet on whether the dealers will offer the Cup 2 rubber that’s available on the Civic. These wheels are also fitted with Brembo brakes that are larger than the Integra’s standard brakes. The Type S has a unique interior, including sportier seats with perforated leather and a leather-wrapped wheel. Acura says the Type S cockpit was designed for comfort in high-G conditions, and that the seats are more substantial to keep the driver and passenger secure through twisties.
Unfortunately, my predictions for the Integra Type S were wrong. The car will not be produced at Acura’s Performance Manufacturing Center but rather in Marysville, Ohio, the same plant that produces the base model. I’m not the automotive Oracle for Delphi. You and I both feel the same way about this.
Engine
This version comes with a powerful 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces five horsepower more than the Honda Civic Type R. It has 320 horsepower and torque of 310 lb.-ft. The Type S has a larger grille and a vented aluminum roof to increase airflow by 170%. This in turn improves engine cooling. The lower part of the front fascia is also wider to allow more air into the intercooler, which will support higher boost pressure.
The Integra Type S is equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, a limited-slip differential, and a close ratio. The new Integra Type S, like its Honda-branded siblings, also comes with an automatic rev-matching system that makes downshifting as smooth as possible. Both hot hatches are characterized by a triple-outlet center-mounted exhaust system, which can be made louder with the Sport+ driving modes.
Dimension
The 2024 Acura Type S is 2.8″ wider than the standard version thanks to flared wheel arches. Acura has also increased the width of the track in front (64.0 inches), and at the back (63.5 inches). The high-performance version is a mere 0.2 inches longer and a tenth inch shorter than the standard model but rides on the same 107.7″ wheelbase.
Acura’s 120 horsepower and 118lb-ft torque is accompanied by a thicker front stabilizer bar of 29 millimeters, a revised dual-axis suspension front MacPherson, and larger Brembo braking systems (13.8 inches up front and 12.0 inches back). The Type S is equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Summer tires on 19-by-9-inch aluminum alloy wheels. The 2024 Acura Type S is 146 pounds heavier with its larger engine than the A-Spec equipped with 1.5 liters. We don’t have manufacturer-provided 0-60 times yet (nor will we be able to test it ourselves for another few weeks), but it should be in the same 5.3-second ballpark as the Civic Type R.
2024 Acura Integra Type-S Price & Release Date
Acura has not yet priced the Integra Type S, but this information will be vital to understanding its positioning. We hope it’s priced under $50,000. That would place it in the same price range as German competitors such as the Audi S3 or BMW M235i Gran Coupe. The Type S is expected to reach U.S. dealers in June, after its debut at the Acura Gran Prix of Long Beach this weekend.