And in profile, it looks a lot like the Integra we remember.
In 2021, Acura has worked hard to rediscover the engaging driving experience that used to be one of the brand's trump cards. Examples include the new MDX Type S, the company's most powerful SUV yet, and the sharp-handling TLX sedan, highlighted by the TLX Type S that recently began arriving at dealers.
But the return of the Type S badge seems to be a sign of things to come, as not only has the brand revealed an NSX Type S, but at the same event it announced that the legendary and much-loved Acura Integra is officially making a comeback! Acura made the announcement at the Monterey Car Week last night while looking back on the previous four generations of the car that was revered for its handling and performance, especially in Type R guise.
Acura says that the new Integra will be positioned as a compact premium entrant next year. Its 2022 introduction implies that it will arrive as a 2023 model.
"The Integra is back," said Vice President and Acura Brand Officer, Jon Ikeda. "I'm thrilled to say Integra is returning to the Acura lineup with the same fun-to-drive spirit and DNA of the original, fulfilling our commitment to Precision Crafted Performance in every way."
It's the fun-to-drive part of the brief that will be the biggest challenge for Acura in an era where sporty cars have become faster but have also grown larger and more clinical. The current NSX, for instance, is a phenomenal car but has never offered the same raw experience as the original.
A teaser video of the upcoming Integra showed nothing more than a sleek headlight and a portion of the grille, but when Acura made the announcement, the silhouette of a fastback, two-door coupe could be seen that closely resembles previous incarnations of the Integra.
Acura shared no other details regarding the new-generation Integra but it'll certainly have some large shoes to fill. The first-gen model launched in 1986 as a three- or five-door hatchback with a keen 1.6-liter DOHC four-banger which eventually produced up to 118 horsepower. The second-gen model introduced a fully-independent double wishbone suspension and a 1.7-liter DOHC VTEC engine that made 160 hp in the GS-R.
In 1997, the Integra Type R was introduced in the USA for the first time as part of the third-gen model lineup. It produced an impressive 195 hp from its 1.8-liter engine and came with a helical limited-slip differential and an upgraded suspension setup.
Finally, the fourth-gen model - badged as the RSX in the USA - was sold from 2002 to 2006. In Type S guise, it made 210 hp and 143 lb-ft of torque at the end of its life. With some excellent engines and some of the best manual gearboxes available from within the Honda parts bin, the new Integra should be well worth the wait. With Honda having discontinued the Civic Coupe and its Si variant with it, this could be just the sporty Japanese coupe we've been looking for.
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