The Acura Integra has made a triumphant return, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and daily drivers alike. Within this exciting lineup, the Integra Type S stands out as the performance beacon, promising a thrilling driving experience coupled with Acura’s renowned refinement. Let’s dive deep into the specifications and features that define the Integra Type S and see how it compares within the Integra family.
Engine and Performance Prowess
At the heart of the Acura Integra Type S lies a potent engine, engineered for exhilarating performance. Unlike the standard Integra and A-Spec models, which are equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4, the Type S boasts a significantly more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4.
This difference in displacement translates to a substantial leap in power. The Integra Type S engine delivers an impressive 320 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 310 lb.-ft. of torque between 2,600 and 4,000 rpm. This is a considerable upgrade from the 200 horsepower and 192 lb.-ft. of torque offered by the 1.5-liter engine in other Integra trims.
The increased power is not just about numbers; it’s about the driving experience. The Integra Type S offers a more responsive and dynamic feel, with a broader torque curve that ensures robust acceleration across a wider range of engine speeds. The redline is also raised to 7,000 rpm in the Type S, emphasizing its sporty character and eagerness to rev.
Both engines feature a 16-Valve DOHC VTEC valvetrain and direct fuel injection for optimal efficiency and power delivery. However, the Type S engine distinguishes itself with a larger bore and stroke (86.0 / 85.9 mm vs. 73.0 / 89.5 mm) and a slightly lower compression ratio (9.8:1 vs. 10.3:1), tuned for high-performance output. Notably, the Integra Type S omits the Idle Stop feature, further highlighting its performance-focused nature.
Drivetrain and Handling Dynamics
The Integra Type S is exclusively paired with a 6-speed manual transmission (6MT), underscoring its commitment to driver engagement. This is a departure from the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) offered in other Integra models, emphasizing the Type S’s sporty intentions. The 6MT in the Type S features rev-match control, ensuring smooth downshifts and enhancing the overall driving experience for enthusiasts.
The gear ratios in the Type S 6MT are specifically tuned for performance, with slightly different ratios compared to the 6MT available in the A-Spec with Technology Package. The final drive ratio is also shorter in the Type S (3.842 vs. 4.353), contributing to quicker acceleration.
Furthermore, the Integra Type S is equipped with performance-enhancing drivetrain components. It features a light-weight single-mass flywheel for improved engine responsiveness and a helical limited-slip differential to optimize power delivery and traction, particularly during cornering. Like all Integra models, the Type S is front-wheel drive, but the advanced differential helps to mitigate torque steer and maximize grip.
In terms of handling, the Integra Type S distinguishes itself with a more sophisticated chassis. While other Integra models utilize a MacPherson strut front suspension, the Type S upgrades to a Dual Axis Strut Front Suspension. This advanced system helps to reduce torque steer and improve steering precision, crucial for a high-performance front-wheel-drive car.
The rear suspension remains a multi-link setup, but the stabilizer bars are thicker on the Type S (29.0 x 5.0 mm front tubular / 20.5 mm rear solid vs. 27.0 x 4.5 mm / 17.5 or 18.0 mm), enhancing body control and reducing roll in corners.
The Integra Type S also features an Adaptive Damper System (ADS) with unique Sport+ mode, in addition to Comfort, Sport, and Individual modes found in the A-Spec with Technology Package. This system allows drivers to fine-tune the suspension stiffness to match driving conditions and preferences, ranging from comfortable cruising to aggressive track driving. Active Sound Control (ASC) and an Active Exhaust Valve (AEV) are also standard on the Type S, allowing for a more engaging and customizable auditory experience.
Fuel Economy and Practicality
Despite its performance focus, the Integra Type S still offers respectable fuel economy. However, as expected with a higher-output engine, it is less fuel-efficient than the standard Integra models.
The EPA fuel economy ratings for the Integra Type S are 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined. In comparison, the CVT-equipped Integra models achieve significantly higher ratings, around 30/37/33 mpg (City/Highway/Combined). The 6MT version of the A-Spec with Technology Package also fares better at 26/36/30 mpg.
The Integra Type S requires premium unleaded fuel with a higher octane rating of 93, compared to the 91 octane recommended for other Integra trims. The fuel tank capacity remains the same across the Integra lineup at 12.4 U.S. gallons.
Chassis, Dimensions, and Brakes
The chassis of the Integra Type S is further enhanced to handle its increased performance. The steering system is a variable ratio electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion (EPS), but the Type S has a slightly quicker steering ratio (11.62:1) and fewer steering wheel turns lock-to-lock (2.11) compared to other Integra models, resulting in sharper and more direct steering response. However, the turning diameter is slightly larger at 39.7 ft. for the Type S, compared to 38.1 ft. for other trims.
Dimensionally, the Integra Type S is slightly different from other Integra models. It is marginally longer (186.0 in vs. 185.8 in) and significantly wider (74.8 in vs. 72.0 in), reflecting its wider track and more aggressive stance. The height is almost identical (55.4 in vs. 55.5 in), while the wheelbase remains the same at 107.7 inches. The track is notably wider on the Type S, both front and rear (64.0/63.5 in vs. 60.5/61.6 in), contributing to improved stability and handling. Ground clearance is reduced in the Type S to 4.0 inches, emphasizing its sporty, road-focused design.
Braking performance is significantly upgraded in the Integra Type S. It features Brembo® 4-piston aluminum front brake calipers and larger ventilated front discs (13.8 in vs. 12.3 in) and solid rear discs (12.0 in vs. 11.1 in). The brake disc thickness is also increased for improved heat dissipation and braking performance under demanding conditions. Wheels are upgraded to 19 x 9.5J aluminum-alloy on the Type S, and it comes standard with 265/30ZR19 93Y summer tires, maximizing grip and handling in warm weather. A tire repair kit is standard across all trims.
Key Features, Technology, and Safety
The Integra Type S comes generously equipped with features and technology, building upon the offerings of the A-Spec with Technology Package. It includes the 4-Mode Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) with Sport+ mode, Adaptive Damper System, Active Sound Control, and Active Exhaust Valve as previously mentioned.
Standard safety and driver-assistance technologies include AcuraWatch™ suite, featuring Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR), Blind Spot Information System (BSI), and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM). Parking sensors (front and rear) and Low-Speed Braking Control are also standard.
Inside, the Integra Type S features a 9-inch touchscreen display, 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, 5.3-inch Head-Up Display (HUD), and ELS Studio® 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, wireless charging pad, AcuraLink® Connected Services, and Alexa Built-In are also included.
The Integra Type S boasts unique interior enhancements, including Perforated Ultrasuede®-trimmed front seats with Type S embossed headrests and a Type S Interior Sport Appearance Package. Heated front seats, dual automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and ambient LED cabin lighting are also standard.
Exterior features include Jewel Eye® LED headlights, Chicane™ LED daytime running lights and taillights, LED fog lights, heated side mirrors, and LED side mirror-integrated directional signals. The Type S also gets a unique Type S Exterior Sport Appearance Package. However, unlike other Integra trims, the Type S does not offer a moonroof.
Interior and Exterior Colors & Trims
The Acura Integra Type S offers a curated selection of exterior and interior colors. Standard exterior color is Lunar Silver Metallic, while premium colors include Majestic Black Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, Liquid Carbon Metallic, Apex Blue Pearl, and the exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl.
Interior color options are primarily Ebony, with Red and Orchid available depending on the exterior color choice. The interior trim in the Type S is Dark Metal Film, complementing the sporty aesthetic.
Conclusion: The Pinnacle of Integra Performance
The Acura Integra Type S represents the pinnacle of performance within the Integra lineup. With its significantly more powerful engine, enhanced drivetrain and handling, upgraded brakes, and sporty design cues, it caters to driving enthusiasts seeking a thrilling and engaging experience. While it sacrifices some fuel economy compared to other Integra models, the Type S delivers a driving dynamic that sets it apart, firmly establishing itself as the high-performance variant of the Acura Integra. For those prioritizing driving excitement and track-inspired capability in a premium compact car, the Integra Type S is a compelling choice.
