Acura's revival of the Acura Integra has taken a sportier turn with the introduction of the 2024 Integra Type S model, boasting an impressive 320 horsepower. This addition comes as welcome news for those who found the initial Integra offering lacking in sportiness. Similar to the standard Integra's connection to the Honda Civic, the Integra Type S shares components with the Civic Type R, including its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, six-speed manual transmission, and limited-slip differential. With an enhanced exterior design, the Type S is expected to command a higher price point compared to the base Integra, though official pricing details are still awaited. Beyond the Type S, the standard Integra continues to provide a satisfying premium hatchback experience. While not as opulent as some European rivals like the Audi A3 or the Mercedes-Benz CLA-class, it offers a spacious cargo area and a competitive value proposition.
The new 320-hp Type S model, scheduled for a summer 2023 release, brings enhanced performance, better handling, and a more aggressive appearance to the Acura lineup. Sharing the Type S badge with other performance variants in the TLX and MDX lines, this iteration promises a thrilling driving experience.
The standard Integra is powered by a 200-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine borrowed from the Honda Civic Si. All front-wheel-drive 200-hp models come with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while A-Spec models offer an optional six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. The Type S, however, stands out with its significantly more powerful 320-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, coupled with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. Initial tests indicate lively and agile performance, and the Type S's 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 5.1 seconds rivals the Civic Type R.
Despite sharing underpinnings with the Honda Civic, the Acura Integra manages to carve its own niche with distinct styling elements borrowed from the TLX sedan and RDX SUV. While the interior showcases styling from the Acura brand, including a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster and a 7.0-inch infotainment display, some omissions are noted in terms of premium features. The rear seat comfortably accommodates two adults, though the lack of rear air vents and seat heaters may be perceived as drawbacks.
The Integra lineup offers either a 7.0-inch or a larger optional 9.0-inch infotainment display, with both systems thankfully omitting the oft-criticized touchpad controller found in other Acura models. A Technology package for A-Spec models provides additional features such as wireless smartphone charging, a head-up display, and multiple USB-C charging ports. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard features, with wireless smartphone mirroring available in models equipped with the Technology package.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the base Integra with the CVT achieves an EPA-rated 30 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. Stepping up to the A-Spec trim with the manual transmission yields slightly lower estimates of 26 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. The more potent Type S model achieves 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, with a commendable 31 mpg recorded during highway testing.
In summary, the 2024 Acura Integra lineup presents an exciting Type S model that caters to enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance. While the standard Integra delivers a pleasant and practical premium hatchback experience, the Type S elevates the brand's sporty image, promising a thrilling drive and aggressive design cues.
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