Acura has released pricing for the new Integra Type S, a premium alternative to the Honda Civic Type R that will take the fight to compact German performance cars. Just one trim level will be offered at $50,800 ($51,995 with destination), which makes it considerably pricier than the Civic Type R, which costs $43,795.
The company says interested buyers will be able to reserve one of the first 200 models before the Type S reaches dealers in June. Even though the Acura is more expensive than its Honda cousin, the racy Integra is priced competitively against its European rivals. The Audi S3 ($46,800) and BMW M235i Gran Coupe ($47,600) are both more affordable, but the Integra Type S strikes back with more muscle, thanks to 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Bimmer does have slightly more torque, though.
The CLA 35 is $49,500 but can't match the Acura on power or torque. Then again, you could argue that the Germans boast more badge cachet than the Integra Type S. But buyers in this segment are more interested in performance, and on that level, the Acura delivers. It's the only vehicle in this class that receives a six-speed manual transmission, which is worth its weight in gold for many enthusiasts.
Other performance-enhancing items include Brembo front brakes, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S high-performance summer tires, a limited-slip differential, and the Adaptive Damper System, which is said to reduce torque steer.
Of course, you could just save thousands of dollars and opt for the Civic Type R, which, admittedly, is one of the best hot hatches money can buy if its Nurburgring record is anything to go by. It does offer five fewer horses than the Acura, but the Honda is 31 pounds lighter than its premium sibling.
But with sophisticated luxury features like heated front seats with power adjustment, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D sound system, the Acura combines the visceral performance of the Civic Type R with the luxuries and refinement associated with the German entrants.
All in all, it sounds like the ideal compromise for the maturing boy racer who wants performance and civility wrapped up in one practical and usable package. And it genuinely is a practical proposition. The five-door liftback body style avails plenty of interior space. Even though the Type S can only accommodate four passengers, the cargo area is capacious in this class. 24.3 cubic feet is up for grabs, and should you require more packing space, the 60/40 split rear seatback can be folded flat.
It's shaping up to be a great compact performance car, and we can't wait to see it go head-to-head with its German rivals and Japanese sibling.
