Table of contents
Introduction
The Acura Integra Type S represents Acura’s ambitious attempt to merge sportiness with everyday usability in a high-performance vehicle. Known for its refined design, thrilling driving experience, and enhanced features, the Type S is designed to offer an exhilarating blend of power and practicality. Positioned as a direct competitor to performance cars like the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R, it brings a sophisticated touch to the compact sport sedan market.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the Acura Integra Type S, exploring its performance capabilities, interior comfort, operating costs, and much more. This detailed analysis will give you everything you need to know about whether the Integra Type S is the right car for you.
Overview of the Acura Integra Type S
What Is the Comfort Level of the Acura Integra Type S?
The Acura Integra Type S is engineered with both performance and comfort in mind. It offers an upscale cabin that elevates the driving experience, particularly in longer commutes or road trips. Acura has paid attention to every detail, from premium seating materials to the finely tuned suspension system, which balances agility with comfort. The seats are crafted with leather-trimmed upholstery, providing excellent support for spirited driving while ensuring comfort during everyday use.
The dual-zone automatic climate control further enhances passenger comfort by providing individual temperature controls, allowing both the driver and passengers to customize their environments. Additionally, sound-deadening materials make the cabin remarkably quiet, a feature uncommon in most performance vehicles.
Features of the Acura Integra Type S
The Acura Integra Type S is packed with a suite of impressive features that enhance both its aesthetic appeal and driving experience. Standard features include:
- 19-inch wheels: These give the car an aggressive stance, hinting at the power that lies beneath the hood.
- LED headlights and taillights: Offering clearer vision and a striking visual appearance, especially at night.
- Heated front seats: For added comfort during colder seasons.
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel: Adds a premium touch, providing better grip for dynamic driving.
Acura has also included a 12-speaker premium audio system, making the Integra Type S not only a joy to drive but also a pleasure to be in, whether you’re cruising around the city or hitting the open road.
Performance of the Acura Integra Type S
Power of the Acura Integra Type S
Performance is at the heart of the Acura Integra Type S, with a powerful engine that doesn’t disappoint. Under the hood lies a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, borrowed from the Honda Civic Type R, but with Acura’s fine-tuning to make it even more responsive. This powertrain delivers an exhilarating 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, ensuring that this compact sedan can hold its own against some of the most formidable sports cars on the market.
Engine, Transmission & Performance
The Acura Integra Type S comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, emphasizing its driver-focused design. The short-throw shifter, combined with a rev-matching feature, offers a smooth and engaging shifting experience. The manual transmission also enables better control, especially when pushing the car to its limits on twisty roads.
Acura has paired the engine with a front-wheel-drive layout, which is enhanced by a limited-slip differential. This helps to put the power down effectively, reducing understeer during hard cornering and improving the overall grip and traction on both dry and wet surfaces.
0-60 MPH Time
The 0-60 mph time is one of the key metrics used to measure the performance of a vehicle, and the Integra Type S delivers an impressive result. It can achieve a 0-60 mph time of around 5.0 seconds, which is competitive in its segment. This quick acceleration is achieved thanks to the turbocharged engine and optimized transmission, making it a car that can easily hold its own in both city and highway conditions.
Operating Costs
Fuel Economy & Real-World Consumption
One of the pleasant surprises of the Acura Integra Type S is its reasonable fuel economy, considering its performance capabilities. It delivers an EPA-estimated 24 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway, which puts it in line with other compact performance sedans. In real-world driving conditions, the Integra Type S tends to achieve a combined fuel economy of around 27 MPG, which is impressive for a car that offers this level of power.
Of course, if you push the car to its limits frequently, such as on track days, you can expect a slight drop in fuel efficiency. However, its efficiency on daily commutes makes it a practical choice for those who want a car that can do it all.
How to Buy & Maintain a Car
When considering purchasing an Acura Integra Type S, it’s essential to look beyond just the sticker price. Acura offers competitive financing and leasing options through its dealerships, which can make the process more affordable. Additionally, Acura’s reputation for reliability means that maintenance costs over the long term tend to be lower than some of its German counterparts in the same segment.
For maintenance, Acura vehicles generally require oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on driving conditions. Tire rotations and brake checks should be performed regularly, especially given the performance nature of the Type S. The cost of parts and service tends to be more affordable than luxury brands, making the Integra Type S an attractive option for those looking to balance performance and cost-effectiveness.
Reliability and Safety
Reliability of the Acura Integra Type S
Acura has a solid reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the Integra Type S is no exception. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is derived from Honda’s proven engineering, ensuring durability and longevity. Many owners report that Acura vehicles easily exceed 100,000 miles with proper maintenance, making this car a dependable option for long-term ownership.
Safety of the Acura Integra Type S
Safety is another area where Acura excels. The Integra Type S comes equipped with a full array of safety features that are both standard and optional, ensuring that you and your passengers are well-protected. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Acura Integra high ratings in crash tests, further solidifying its reputation as a safe vehicle.
Safety & Driver-Assist Features
Acura includes its AcuraWatch™ suite of safety technologies in the Integra Type S, which includes:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): Automatically applies the brakes to avoid frontal collisions.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed while automatically adjusting to traffic conditions.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Gently steers the car back into its lane if it detects unintentional drifting.
These advanced safety systems work seamlessly in the background, enhancing driver confidence and reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Technology and Comfort
Infotainment & Connectivity
The Acura Integra Type S offers a modern infotainment system that includes a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The system is intuitive, allowing drivers to quickly access navigation, music, and other functions. Additionally, the 12-speaker ELS Studio® 3D premium audio system offers crisp, clear sound that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo
Inside the cabin, the Integra Type S strikes a balance between sportiness and luxury. The seats are designed to provide comfort during daily commutes and support during aggressive driving. The rear seats offer enough legroom for passengers, though the sloping roofline slightly limits headroom for taller individuals.
In terms of cargo space, the trunk offers about 24.3 cubic feet of storage, which is impressive for a compact sedan. This makes it practical for weekend getaways or daily errands, further emphasizing its versatility.
Ratings and Comparisons
How This Vehicle Ranks
In comparison to its competitors, the Acura Integra Type S holds its own against the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R. While all three vehicles offer similar levels of performance, the Integra Type S distinguishes itself with a more luxurious interior and a more refined driving experience. It also tends to be more comfortable for long-distance driving, making it a better all-rounder for those who want performance without sacrificing daily usability.
The Difference Between the Car and the Driver
The Integra Type S is a driver-focused car, designed for those who want to enjoy every moment behind the wheel. It responds well to inputs, offering sharp handling and quick acceleration. However, its level of refinement and comfort make it accessible to a broader audience, from seasoned car enthusiasts to those looking for their first performance vehicle.
New Features and Trends
What’s New for 2025
For the 2025 model year, Acura has introduced several new features to the Integra Type S. These include:
- Enhanced adaptive suspension system: Offering improved ride quality in various driving conditions.
- New exterior color options: Including a striking Matte Apex Blue Pearl finish, which gives the car a more aggressive look.
- Advanced safety features: Further updates to the AcuraWatch™ suite, making the car even safer for daily driving.
These updates ensure that the 2025 Integra Type S remains competitive in its class and continues to offer cutting-edge technology.
Conclusion
The Acura Integra Type S is an outstanding blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. It offers a thrilling driving experience, with its powerful engine, manual transmission, and responsive handling. Its upscale interior, impressive technology features, and strong safety ratings make it a versatile choice for everyday driving.
Still Interested in Buying an Acura Integra Type S?
If you’re ready to experience the thrill of driving the Acura Integra Type S, now is the time to act. Visit your nearest Acura dealership for a test drive and explore financing options to turn this dream car into a reality. The Integra Type S combines high performance with everyday practicality, making it a standout in today’s market.
