Decide Between Track Animal and Sporty Daily Driver: Acura Integra Type S Does Both
Sporty performance, calmer cruising
A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Power goes to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential; there is no automatic option.
The shifter is light and precise, while the clutch engages smoothly. An expertly tuned chassis brings lively handling, and the ride remains comfortable on longer trips. The car’s character can shift from eager track driving to relaxed cruising.
2027 updates and pricing
For 2027, the Type S receives gloss-black wheels, yellow brake calipers, dark-gray cabin trim and gloss-black climate-control knobs. Driver-seat memory and a mirror feature that tilts the exterior mirrors down when reversing are now standard.
The base price is $51,995, and the tested car cost $53,785. Its listed options were a $950 carbon-fiber spoiler, $600 Platinum White Pearl paint and a $240 premium carpet floor-mat set. A lightly used one-to-three-year-old example may cost less and likely retain warranty coverage.
Cabin, technology and space
Inside, the Type S is somewhat more upscale than the Civic Type R, but the cabin difference may seem limited beside the $6,000 price gap. The rear has two individual bucket seats and a small center armrest instead of a bench, with room for two passengers. Rear air vents and seat heaters are absent.
Equipment includes a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster, a 9.0-inch touchscreen, wireless phone charging, a head-up display and two USB ports. A 16-speaker, 530-watt ELS Studio 3D audio system is standard.
Efficiency, safety and coverage
EPA estimates are 21 mpg in city driving, 28 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg combined. The Type S recorded 31 mpg during a 75-mph highway test; observed fuel economy was 23 mpg, and the reported highway range was 380 miles.
Standard driver aids include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. Acura’s powertrain warranty lasts up to six years or 70,000 miles, and scheduled maintenance is included.
Key points
- The 320-hp Type S comes only with a six-speed manual and front-wheel drive.
- Its chassis balances lively handling with comfort for commuting and longer trips.
- The 2027 model adds styling changes and standard seat-memory and mirror-dip features.
- Rear passengers get two seats, but no rear air vents or seat heaters.