Auto review by Veeno Dewan
The famous Integra model is back in the Acura performance lineup. For the uninitiated, the 1980s and 1990s Integra was an iconic performance two- door coupe. Highly anticipated and sure to sell out fast, the 2023 version of the legendary Acura Integra is a new Sportback four -door sedan with the sporty Honda Civic Si underpinnings. No retro styling, only the distinctive “Integra” lettering stamped into the front and rear bumpers. The new Integra is a distinctive looking car with its pentagon grille and sleek light treatments.
The Integra is powered by; a 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-4 with VTEC producing 200 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and Torque at 192 lb.-ft. @ 1,800 – 5,000 rpm. The transmission choice is either a Sport-tuned Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with Paddle Shifters or an optional six-speed manual (Hooray!)with a mechanical limited slip differential. There is also optional adaptive suspension.
There are four trim levels to choose from in the model line up: base Integra, ($34,350), A-Spec ($37,050), Elite A-Spec Package ($42,550) and the latest Type S edition ($55,600) as tested available only with a 6- Speed manual transmission aimed at performance thrill seeking drivers. The Integra Type S is distinct with wide fender flares, a front track and rear track stretch by 3.5 inches and 1.9 inches. There is the addition of a functional hood scoop and a wider grille for more cooling along with. Larger lower front air-intakes, larger 19-inch Michelin Pilot 4S tires, Also added is bigger four-piston 13.8-inch front and 12-inch rear Brembo brake rotors. The Type S also arrives with a high-performance straight through exhaust system with active exhaust valves.
In terms of the drivetrain, the Type S has the Civic Type R, 2.0L VTEC turbocharged engine spinning out a phenomenal 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed short throw manual gearbox. Power goes to the front wheels. Sorry no automatic transmission on this version!
The S type interior is set off by red rim, 12-way powered heated seats with extra side and thigh bolstering, UltraSuede inserts are added with the Type S logo embossed on the front headrests. Standard features across the range include heated sport seats and steering wheel, sunroof, power driver’s seat, and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster which provides reconfigurable information for the driver. The Integra comes with a 7.0-inch infotainment display as standard with a larger 9.0-inch unit available as an option. There is also blind-spot monitoring, and forward-facing driver assist technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, which uses a new camera system. All models feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There is almost 700L of cargo space is provided with the rear seats
up.
On the road, the 2023 Integra, much like the original version is satisfyingly sporty to drive. Its turbocharged 2.0L engine likes to rev and offers quick acceleration in a smooth, linear manner. A stand out feature is the optional six-speed manual transmission as equipped on our test car. the short- throw shifter snicks into up and down wonderfully accurate and precise in operation. Combined with a firm, yet fairly forgiving clutch the transitions and rev matching system make for a positive confident up and downshift experience.
There are four drive modes: Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual. The latter lets you select the engine response, steering, suspension, and gauge display between the other three options.
The steering is well weighted and direct erring on firm for excellent cornering with controlled weight transfer. Meanwhile, the adaptive dampers set up can switch from normal to driver preferred comfortable cruising mode or a performance-oriented firmer setup for more precise cornering. Ride and handling is also good with a tuned nicely engineered chassis. The three-stage adaptive dampers have driver selectable Comfort, Normal and Sport modes. Each of the Adaptive suspension settings combine with throttle and steering parameters when used. Comfort offers looser steering, and throttle control and a more relaxed ride. Sport sharpens throttle response; firmer steering and a firmer road feel for more driver feedback.. Fuel consumption is rated at 11.1 L/100 km on city streets, 8.3 L/100km on the highway.
Downsides are few, the lack of rear headroom being one weakness in particular. All in all, the 2023 Acura Integra S Type is a very engaging, fun to drive sports coupe and can be had with one of the best manual transmissions around. A very competent and highly recommended sports car for the demanding fun -orientated
driver.
2023 Acura Integra Type S priced from $55,600 ($58,195 including freight and PDI).
More info at www.acura.ca
