Acura has unveiled the Integra Type S HRC Prototype, a vehicle that signals an exciting new direction for street and track-focused performance parts from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC). Debuting during Monterey Car Week, this prototype showcases the potential of leveraging HRC’s championship-winning race engineering to elevate the driving experience for Acura enthusiasts. The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype builds upon the already impressive Integra Type S, injecting it with a dose of race-bred technology for ultimate performance both on the road and the racetrack.
Jon Ikeda, Senior Vice President of Honda Racing Corporation USA, emphasized the vision behind this project: “HRC performance parts is an exciting concept focused on building a stronger connection with Acura and Honda enthusiasts eager to access exclusive HRC race engineering to augment their performance driving experience. Every spec of the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype screams performance. Everything is functional – if it doesn’t add performance it isn’t on the car.” This statement underscores the commitment to genuine performance enhancement, driven by HRC’s racing expertise.
HRC Performance Parts Concept
The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype is more than just a show car; it represents a tangible pathway for Acura owners to access HRC-developed performance upgrades. HRC US, based in Southern California, is spearheading the development, focusing on a holistic approach to performance improvement. This includes engine enhancements, suspension and braking upgrades, and significant weight reduction – all aimed at maximizing the potential of the Acura Integra Type S for both street and track environments. The prototype serves as a rolling testament to what’s possible when race-proven technology is applied to a road car.
Prototype Highlights: Enhanced Performance
The Integra Type S HRC Prototype is packed with upgrades meticulously designed to boost performance across the board.
Optimized Aerodynamics
Designed at the Acura Design Studio in Los Angeles, the prototype’s aggressive aesthetics are deeply rooted in function. Drawing on aerodynamic insights gained from developing the Integra Type S TCX racecar, the prototype features a suite of functional aero elements. These include a redesigned front fascia with a larger splitter and cooling ducts, enhanced hood vents, side splitters, and a prominent adjustable carbon fiber rear wing with aluminum uprights. These elements work in concert to increase downforce and improve high-speed stability, crucial for track performance.
The striking Indy Yellow Pearl paint, first seen on the second-generation NSX supercar, ensures the prototype commands attention. Custom milled aluminum HRC badges adorn the grille, front fenders, and decklid, proudly displaying the same logo found on Honda and Acura race machines in prestigious series like IndyCar, IMSA, and Formula 1, further connecting the prototype to HRC’s racing pedigree.
Significant Weight Reduction
Weight is the enemy of performance, and the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype tackles this head-on with extensive use of carbon fiber. The hood and rear door panels are crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, as are the aggressively bolstered one-piece Recaro bucket seats. Notably, the rear seat has been replaced with a carbon fiber shelf, ingeniously designed to securely transport four mounted wheels and tires for track days. Combined with an optional air conditioning delete, these weight-saving measures result in an overall reduction of nearly 200 lbs compared to the standard Integra Type S, significantly enhancing agility and responsiveness.
Engine and Handling Upgrades
The prototype pushes the performance envelope of the Integra Type S’s high-revving turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC engine. Drawing from developments for the Acura Integra Type S HRC TCX race car, engine performance and cooling are enhanced with a larger intercooler, twin oil coolers, and a tuned, lightweight cat-back exhaust system. These upgrades not only boost output and response but also improve thermal management under demanding conditions.
Handling is sharpened with a track-ready suspension lowered by 15mm, featuring tuned coilovers, an adjustable rear anti-roll bar, and adjustable front and rear camber plates – components directly inspired by the Integra Type S HRC TCX racecar. Forged lightweight 19 x 9.5-inch wheels with an increased negative offset widen the track by 30mm both front and rear, improving handling and giving the prototype an assertive stance. Track-focused Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R ultra-high-performance tires (265/30ZR19) with a 60 Treadwear rating ensure maximum grip.
Upgraded Braking System
Braking performance is elevated to match the prototype’s enhanced capabilities. Massive 15-inch two-piece front rotors, 1.4 inches larger than the standard Integra’s, are paired with Brembo 6-piston aluminum calipers for exceptional stopping power. Two-piece rear rotors further reduce unsprung weight. Larger ducts in the front fascia optimize brake cooling by channeling more air to the front rotors, crucial for sustained braking performance on track.
Chassis and Interior Enhancements
To enhance chassis rigidity and provide mounting points for multipoint harnesses, the rear bulkhead is reinforced with a robust X-Brace, finished in Indy Yellow Pearl to match the exterior. The interior receives premium-performance touches with black Alcantara accents and color-matched yellow seatbelts, stitching, and trim, creating a focused and sporty cabin environment.
HRC: Racing Heritage to Street Performance
Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) has a long and storied history in motorsports, established in Japan in 1982 as Honda’s motorcycle racing division. With over 40 years of championship-winning heritage in categories like MotoGP, Superbike, and the Dakar Rally, HRC expanded into auto racing in 2022, including Honda’s Formula 1 program. HRC US leads Honda and Acura’s North American racing programs, including IndyCar and IMSA. From 2026, HRC will partner with the Aston Martin Aramco F1 team as the official engine supplier, further cementing its commitment to top-tier motorsport. The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype represents the exciting application of this vast racing expertise to create high-performance parts for Acura enthusiasts.
The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype made its public debut at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering on Friday, Aug. 16, signaling a promising future for Acura performance and the integration of HRC racing technology into street vehicles.
