The 2025 Acura Integra Type S offers a more refined alternative to the Honda Civic Type R, which is known for its bold design and intense driving experience. The Integra Type S tones down the aggressive styling with a subtler trunk-lid spoiler and includes an adaptive suspension system that provides a more comfortable ride without sacrificing handling. Both the Type S and Type R come only with a manual transmission, which is highly praised for its smooth operation. For those who appreciate performance but prefer a more understated look, the Integra Type S is an excellent choice.
- More subtle design: Subtle trunk-lid spoiler and less aggressive styling.
- Adaptive suspension: Balances comfort with performance.
- Manual transmission only: A favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Table of Contents
Pricing
The Integra Type S is priced around $7,000 higher than its counterpart, the Honda Civic Type R. However, it comes with several premium features that justify the price difference. These include heated front seats, a head-up display, a 16-speaker ELS audio system, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Additionally, the Integra Type S has a slight horsepower advantage, offering five more horsepower than the Civic Type R, along with a more refined driving experience suitable for daily use.
- Higher price: Approximately $7,000 more than the Civic Type R.
- Premium features: Heated seats, head-up display, 16-speaker audio, power driver’s seat.
- Slight horsepower boost: 320 hp compared to the Civic Type R’s 315 hp.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Integra Type S is powered by a 320-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine that produces 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive, featuring a limited-slip differential for enhanced traction. The shifter is noted for its light and precise feel, making it one of the best manual transmissions available. The Integra Type S performs admirably, matching the Civic Type R in cornering and braking capabilities, while also being capable of a more relaxed, everyday driving experience when needed.
- Engine specs: 320-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with 310 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: Six-speed manual with front-wheel drive.
- Balanced performance: Excels in both high-performance driving and everyday comfort.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Integra Type S is rated by the EPA at 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. While these figures are lower than the standard Integra’s ratings, they are reasonable given the increase in performance. In comparison, the Audi S3 and Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA 35 offer slightly better fuel efficiency. However, in real-world testing, the Integra Type S achieved 31 mpg on a 75-mph highway fuel economy test, outperforming its EPA rating.
- EPA ratings: 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
- Real-world performance: 31 mpg in highway testing, better than the EPA estimate.
- Comparison: Slightly less efficient than Audi S3 and Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA 35.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the Integra Type S emphasizes quality and comfort over flashy design. While it shares some components with the Honda Civic, it also incorporates design elements from other Acura models, such as the TLX sedan and RDX SUV. The interior features sport seats with mild bolstering, faux-suede upholstery, and “Type S” branding. Front seats are heated, with the driver’s seat offering 12-way power adjustment. The rear seats consist of individual bucket seats with a small center console, but some features like rear air vents and seat heaters are missing, which may be disappointing in a premium vehicle. The cargo space remains generous at 24 cubic feet, thanks to the hatchback design.
- Interior design: Focus on quality materials and proven design.
- Sporty seats: Perforated faux-suede upholstery with “Type S” branding.
- Cargo space: 24 cubic feet, accessible through a large hatchback.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Integra Type S comes equipped with a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster and a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard. Additional features include a wireless smartphone charging pad, a head-up display, and a pair of USB ports (one USB-A and one USB-C). The top-of-the-line 16-speaker, 530-watt ELS Studio 3D premium audio system is also standard, providing a high-quality audio experience.
- Digital gauge cluster: 10.2-inch display standard.
- Infotainment: 9.0-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, USB-A and USB-C ports.
- Audio system: Premium 16-speaker, 530-watt ELS Studio 3D system.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Integra Type S includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features as standard. These include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the manual transmission limits some features, such as low-speed follow and traffic jam assist.
- Safety features: Standard automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
- Limitations: Some features, like low-speed follow, are not available with the manual transmission.
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