2024 Acura Integra Type S: The 320-HP, Widebody, Manual Hatchback You’ve Requested

The fresh Type S features a myriad of modifications and enhancements that bestow upon it a distinctive character rather than merely appearing as another iteration of the well-liked vehicle. Commencing with its design, the Integra Type S is significantly broader than the standard model—specifically 2.8 inches wider—sans any ostentatious wheel arches. The widebody styling is cohesive, commencing from the aluminum hood’s top, proceeding downwards to the front fascia and quarter panels, and culminating in the fenders. The overall look is quite refined.

The front and rear fascias have also received revisions, displaying an overall more dynamic style. The grille is larger and showcases a novel design, a floating Acura logo, and a Type S emblem. Enhanced airflow, reportedly up to 170% more compared to the standard Integra, is primarily attributed to the vented hood, enlarged grille, and substantial intakes in the lower section of the front bumper. In the rear, a black diffuser frames three sizable center-positioned exhaust pipes, previously glimpsed on the prototype.

The vehicle rolls on lightweight 19 x 9.5-inch wheels sporting a 10-spoke design inspired by the NSX, which despite their increased size, are reputedly 2 pounds lighter than the 18-inch Integra A-Spec wheels. Standard high-performance summer 265/30 R19 tires are equipped. Ensuring confident braking performance are 13.8-inch two-piece rotors with Brembo four-piston monobloc aluminum calipers upfront, and 12-inch rotors at the rear. This marks a 1.5-inch front and 0.9-inch rear size increment.

A significant highlight from my October test drive was the Type S’ stability at speeds exceeding 100 mph. The spirited Integra felt completely at ease cruising at 125 mph on a 45-degree embankment and seamlessly maneuvered along Honda’s high-speed oval sans any twitchiness. Undoubtedly, credit goes to its MacPherson Strut dual-axis front suspension, adaptive dampers, and notably wider track. In the front, the Type S is 3.5 inches broader than the regular Integra, and 1.9-inch wider at the rear. The reconfigured suspension geometry facilitated a 0.75-inch reduction in steering axis offset, a modification that Acura claims significantly reduces torque steer. A remarkable accomplishment considering the minimal torque steer the standard Integra already exhibits. Furthermore, an upgraded 29.0 mm (instead of 27 mm) front stabilizer bar enhances steering response.

Lastly, the star of the show: the turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC K20C1 engine. In its Integra Type S variant, it pumps out 320 horsepower at 6,500 rpm (5 hp more than the Honda Civic Type R) and 310 pound-feet of torque between 2,600 and 4,000 rpm. This marks a 120 hp and 118 lb-ft increase over the standard Integra. Despite a 146-pound weight uptick compared to the manual Integra A-Spec, the engine continues to deliver impressive performance.