Acura as we speak revealed one of the crucial anticipated new vehicles of 2023 and one which flashes again to some beloved almost-classics. The 2024 Acura Integra Sort S could have 320 horsepower on faucet, plus a short-throw 6-speed guide transmission and sufficient visible tweaks to sign that there’s one thing particular within the parking zone.
A Reborn Integra, a Reborn Juiced Integra
Acura introduced the Integra identify again for the 2023 model 12 months.
It’s a badge that evoked reminiscences for anybody who drove or longed to drive within the Eighties or ’90s. The unique Integra fashions constructed the inspiration of the Acura model. Basically a modified Honda Civic with sportier highway manners and a extra luxurious cabin, the Integra was Acura’s first actual hit. It introduced sport sedan manners right into a extra inexpensive value vary from 1986 to 2001.
Acura retired the identify then. However a succession of good compact Acura sedans beneath totally different names by no means mirrored its mild totally.
So, two years in the past, Acura introduced a brand new one was coming. Right now’s Integra is so much like yesterday’s — it rides on a Civic platform however brings tighter dealing with and extra refinement. It’s inexpensive for a automotive from a luxurious marque (beginning at $31,300).
However, within the Integra’s first golden age, Acura had a secret menu merchandise accessible for patrons who wished additional spice. Again then, it was referred to as the Integra Sort R.
Since then, for causes that escape us, they’ve modified the identify of their high-power fashions to Sort S. They construct Sort S fashions of a number of vehicles, from the midsize TLX to the 3-row MDX SUV. However what everybody needs is an Integra Sort S.
And what everybody needs is right here. Acura as we speak revealed every thing however the value.
320 Horsepower, Wider Stance, Stickier Tires
The 2024 Integra Sort S incorporates a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine cranking out 320 horsepower. Sure, it’s a tuned model of the 315-horsepower model within the Civic Sort R. Would you truthfully need it to be the rest?
Energy goes to the entrance wheels via a helical-type limited-slip differential to assist it nook extra exactly than different Integra fashions. That energy goes via a 6-speed stick-shift transmission. Oh, you wished an computerized? Study to drive stick or purchase one other automotive, Acura says.
It additionally borrows the Civic Sort R’s dual-axis entrance suspension to restrict torque steer. 4-piston Brembo entrance brakes and 12-inch rear rotors (not Brembo) deliver it to a cease.
Plenty of Showy Bits, None of Them for Present
Usually, we let you know a couple of automotive’s efficiency and its seems as two separate traits. However a lot of the Integra’s physique performs precise features that we should mix the 2 discussions.
The Sort S clearly seems like different Integra autos however has so many distinctive physique panels that it’s virtually a wholly totally different automotive. Acura says each piece from the windshield ahead is exclusive.
The grille is enlarged, as is the air vent beneath it. However they don’t let in sufficient air to feed the aggressive turbos, so there’s a large hood vent, too. Each entrance and rear fenders are flared out to accommodate wider tires — Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 265s that you just’ll have to swap out for winter in lots of states.
Within the again, aggressive-looking diffusers flank a 3-tipped exhaust so low we cringe to think about velocity bumps.
That exhaust, Acura says, permits for “present stopping pops and bangs” in Sport+ mode.
When an automaker has put thought into how a sporty automotive sounds, you’re coping with actual ardour.
The Inside Emphasizes the Drive
Inside, the cabin isn’t as dramatically totally different from the everyday Integra’s cockpit. Energy-adjustable and heated entrance seats are normal, as is a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D sound system. Acura resisted the posh automotive builder’s impulse to place a film display screen on the dashboard. A 9-inch central touchscreen runs Apple CarPlay and Android Auto whilst you entertain your self together with your palms and toes.
The Sort S does get firmer seat bolsters, an anodized aluminum shift knob, and Sort S logos on the seats and steering wheel.
There’s one unique exterior colour. It’s the stunning gold you see within the images above. Acura calls it Tiger Eye Pearl.
