5 of our Favorite Acura Integra Type S Features
Like a lot of people, we were disappointed by the initial return of the Acura Integra nameplate. Now though, the Acura Integra Type S is here, and it’s got a host of features that are genuinely enticing. Here are five of our favorite Acura Integra Type S features that enhance both the performance and versatility of this sport sedan.
Unique exhaust design
One of the most enticing things about any sports car is the sound, and the new exhaust design in the Acura Integra Type S delivers. It has what Acura is calling a high-flow exhaust system that differs from the Civic Type R powertrain this car borrows. Not only does that mean a few extra horsepower, but a deeper exhaust note than its Honda cousin as well.
Active valves allow drivers to adjust the exhaust note with different drive modes. It can even introduce a bit of crackle on the overrun when in Sport+ mode. Let’s just hope it doesn’t end up causing problems for its owners like the Hyundai Elantra N.
Wide track suspension
There are a few different ways to enhance both looks and handling when designing a sports car. While lowered suspension is one option, widening the track can deliver improved road holding as well. With the Integra Type S, Acura provides a track that is four inches wider than that of the standard Integra, according to Car and Driver.
That means more inspired cornering capability, as more of the car’s weight sits within the wheels. In turn, the Integra Type S is both more agile and more comfortable than its base model. The wider stance also serves to make the Type S look more athletic overall. It’s part of why tuners often opt for wider wheels or wheel spacers – but the new Integra gives you this look from the factory floor.
Manual transmission only
One of the main complaints regarding the base Acura Integra was the lack of a manual transmission. However, the Integra Type S rights that wrong with authority. The spiced-up Acura comes exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox. At least for now, an automatic transmission isn’t even an option.
That certainly ups the street cred of the newest Integra model, and it is one of our favorite Type S features by a wide margin.
Adaptive dampers
Sport suspension is great, but it can often limit the use case for a sports car. With the front-drive Integra Type S, the ability to adjust suspension settings for different driving scenarios is a big plus, and one of the best features of this car.
Surely, those first few drives will be in Sport+ mode, with the suspension in its stiffest setting to take advantage of the car’s superior handling balance. But for the daily drive to work or a road trip through the mountains, softer settings may be preferable to maintain your sanity on unkept roads.
Luxurious seats
At its heart, the new Acura Integra Type S is a grand tourer. That means its comfort needs to match the performance for long days of enjoyable driving. The contoured sport seats are bolstered to hold you in place while carving through corners. And with Ultrasuede upholstery and heated seats as standard, they provide a high level of comfort to enjoy those longer road trips.