Here's Why The 2024 Acura Integra Type S Is The Best Small Sport Sedan Of The Year

As the smallest and most budget-friendly model in the Acura family, the Acura Integra small sedan takes inspiration from the trusty Honda Civic but elevates the driving experience with an array of premium features. Shoppers seeking an upscale daily driver without filing for bankruptcy will quickly embrace the 2024 Integra, featuring upgraded audio systems, a wealth of standard driver-assist technologies, and a surprisingly spacious cabin for its compact size. 

Acura has seamlessly blended style and affordability to make the Integra a compelling choice for those who appreciate the finer things without selling the house. For Acura fans and driving enthusiasts, the Acura Integra Type S emerges as the much-needed adrenaline shot for the brand. This stunning hot hatch strikes a harmonious balance between sport compact and entry-level luxury. 

If you’ve always fantasized about a more refined Honda Civic Type R without losing any of the thrill and precision, the Integra Type S is the ultimate solution. The 2024 Acura Integra Type S seamlessly transitions from an enthusiast hot-hatch to a refined daily driver. Despite minor shortcomings, the Type S encapsulates practicality and exhilaration. Below are 10 reasons why the Integra Type S is the absolute best sport sedan for 2024. 

See also: The 10 Most Powerful Small Cars Under $30,000 ¬– Affordable Powerhouses For 2023 

1. The Turbocharged Engine:

The 2.0-liter VTEC® Turbo engine makes the Integra Type S the most powerful Integra yet, cranking out 310 pound-feet of torque. The high-revving four-cylinder VTEC® Turbo engine produces 320 horsepower and features a Type S-specific exhaust system with a straight-through design and active exhaust valve, adding power and improving exhaust sound. 

From standstill to takeoff, its zippy acceleration and distinctive exhaust note with delightful pops and crackles make for an exciting driving experience. While sharing mechanical components with the Civic Type R, the Acura Integra Type S takes a unique turn with a radically different tune, transforming it into more than just a racetrack weapon. 

The car becomes a corner carver, extracting a few extra horsepower (320 versus 315) from its turbocharged four-cylinder engine and delivering power with finesse to the front wheels, all controlled by an exceptionally managed torque-steer control system. Unlike its rivals focusing solely on blazing speed, the Integra Type S takes a distinctive approach. 

Despite a sluggish 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 5.7 seconds, attributed partly to the challenge of launching from a dead stop, its true prowess reportedly shines when in motion. 

Once rolling, the Type S asserts its presence, evidenced by a short 60-0 mph stopping distance of 105 feet and an impressive 1.04 g grip on our skidpad. The manual transmission transforms the front-wheel-drive layout into a unique asset rather than a hindrance. 

2. The Dual-Axis Strut Front Suspension:

The Integra Type S uses a dual-axis strut front suspension developed by motorsport engineers for increased performance and precision handling. 

Honda designed it to improve the performance and handling of front-wheel drive cars, particularly the Civic Type R. It addresses issues such as torque steering, steering feel, cornering limit performance, and straight-line stability. 

It works by separating the steering and suspension (knuckles and dampers) functions to reduce the effects of steering inputs on the suspension and vice versa, resulting in improved stability and responsiveness during cornering and acceleration. 

The system also allows for the fine-tuning of camber, caster, kingpin inclination, and scrub radius, resulting in improved steering feel, weight, and response. The Dual Axis Strut Suspension has played a significant role in achieving fast lap times for front-wheel drive cars at the Nurburgring. 

3. The Close-Ratio 6-Speed Manual Transmission:

The Type S model uses a six-speed manual featuring a precise shifter and a feather-light clutch reminiscent of the Miata. It empowers the Integra Type S to reach a 7,000 rpm redline. Designed for high-performance vehicles, the term "close ratio" refers to the smaller-than-average difference between the gear ratios, which helps keep the engine in the power band, allowing for more responsive acceleration. 

This type of transmission is often used in sports cars to enhance performance. For example, GM’s TREMEC Magnum Close Ratio 6-speed has a capacity of 700 lb-ft of torque and offers multiple gear ratios, including a double overdrive. Enhanced by a rev-matching function, each downshift delivers an experience akin to mastering a top-notch manual transmission. 

This performance isn't just for the young at heart, as the Acura's powertrain, coupled with a refined short-throw six-speed manual and front-wheel drive, offers a sporty and engaging ride without becoming tiresome during daily commutes.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the 2024 Integra Type S achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, which is slightly below average gas mileage. 

4. The Helical Limited-Slip Differential:

The Acura Integra Type S is equipped with a Helical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) as part of its drivetrain, contributing to its high-performance capabilities by transferring maximum power to the road for better traction and control. 

The Helical LSD is designed to enhance traction and stability, especially during fast cornering or acceleration, by efficiently transferring power to the wheels with the most grip. 

This results in improved control and responsiveness, allowing the driver to make the most of the available power and performance. 

5. The Class-Leading Cargo Space:

Thanks to the hot hatch's liftback rear, the Integra Type S impresses with ample cargo room for a small sport sedan, enough room to stash a couple medium or large suitcases. Touting an impressive cargo capacity of 24.3 cubic feet, the Acura Integra outperforms its hatchback rivals. 

In direct comparison, the Audi S3 falls significantly short with less than half the cargo space, while the 3 Series Bimmer lags behind as well. This could very well prove a substantial advantage for the Acura Integra in the small performance-car market. 

Adding to its practicality, the seats conveniently fold down in a 60/40 split, and the cargo area itself boasts both depth and width. Furthermore, the Type S’ interior continues the trend with strategically placed cubbies and bins, complete with a center console between the front seats. 

This console provides storage space both ahead of and behind the shifter, along with additional room underneath the armrest. The rear cabin is spacious and supports car seat installation with ease. 

6. The Integrated Dynamics System:

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S comes equipped with the Integrated Dynamics System, which offers various driving modes befitting a modern sport sedan. This system includes settings for different driving conditions, such as sport mode for more dynamic performance and comfort mode for a smoother ride. 

The Integrated Dynamics System works in conjunction with the vehicle's advanced powertrain to deliver a tailored driving thrill. The five driving modes that make up the 2024 Integra Type S’ Integrated Dynamics System include: 

• Sport Mode: For an enthusiastic driving experience with aggressive engine sound and sport-focused throttle and steering settings.
• Comfort Mode: Designed for smoother and more relaxed driving.
• Normal Mode: For a balanced driving experience with standard engine, throttle, and steering settings suitable for everyday driving.
• Individual Mode: This mode allows drivers to personalize and customize various driving settings to their preferences.
• Sport+ Mode: The Sport+ mode represents the highest level of excitement, enhancing engine sound and further sharpening throttle and steering response for an even more thrilling performance.

See also: Now Taking Orders: 2024 Acura ZDX Electric Performance SUV – Review

7. The Lightweight Single-Mass Flywheel:

The Type S’ lightweight single-mass flywheel promotes engine responsiveness and acceleration. A single-mass flywheel is a component in a car's transmission system that stores rotational energy.

It connects to the engine's crankshaft and helps smooth out fluctuations in engine speed. Unlike dual-mass flywheels, which have two distinct parts for dampening vibrations, a single-mass flywheel consists of a single solid mass. 

It's common in older or performance-oriented vehicles. The 2024 Acura Integra Type S’ lightweight single-mass flywheel helps the engine rev more freely and quickly, enhancing the vehicle's overall performance.

In conjunction with the manual transmission, it provides a more intimate and rewarding connection with the driver on par with the sedan’s sporty nature. 

8. The Brembo® Monobloc Brake Calipers:

The Type S’ large Brembo® Monobloc Brake Calipers are high-performance brake calipers designed by renowned braking systems manufacturer Brembo. "Monobloc" refers to their construction from a single piece of material, usually aluminum. 

This design enhances rigidity and reduces weight, improving braking performance and responsiveness in high-performance sports cars. Monobloc calipers are known for their efficiency in dissipating heat and providing precise braking control. 

Their superiority is further evidenced by their higher rigidity and reduced flex during braking, weight reduction, as the single-piece design eliminates the need for additional connecting parts, and reduced vibration, thanks to the solid construction leading to a smoother and quieter braking experience. 

Plus, They’re typically visually appealing and often favored by automakers for their high-end or performance-oriented vehicles. 

9. The Deleted Moonroof:

Removing the moonroof from the Type S variant of the Acura Integra contributes to improved chassis rigidity due to the reduction in weight and the elimination of the structural openings caused by the moonroof assembly. 

This enhanced rigidity helps to improve overall handling, steering responsiveness, and stability, especially during spirited driving. 

More so, a reduced weight at the vehicle's highest point, such as the moonroof, also lowers the center of gravity, further enhancing the vehicle's dynamic performance, agility, and overall driving experience. 

10. The Aggressive Styling:

To create the ultimate compact sport sedan, the design language and aerodynamic features contribute to the Integra Type S's aggressive and sporty appearance, encapsulated in a unique liftback design. 

The Type S variant of the 2024 Integra adds over two inches to the exterior, creating a more aggressive and formidable stance that complements the power beneath the hood. It features large front openings in the bumper and an open-surface Diamond Pentagon Grille. 

The vented hood aids in air intake, cooling, and airflow control. The new Integra Type S flaunts stylish and modern lighting elements, including headlights, taillights, and an illuminated front emblem, creating a striking visual presence both during the day and at night. 

The car is available with 19-inch matte black accessory wheels that enhance its athletic presence. Exclusive to the Type S, the exhaust system features three equal-diameter outlets that deliver an engaging sound, especially in Sport+ drive mode. 

The Acura Genuine Accessory Carbon Fiber Tailgate Spoiler improves the car’s sportiness and aerodynamics, and shoppers can have the Integra in various color options, such as Apex Blue Pearl, Tiger Eye Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, Majestic Black Pearl, and more. 

Furthermore, the 2024 Integra Type S features an Acura Genuine Accessory Illuminated Front Emblem that makes a statement even at a standstill, adding a touch of sophistication to the vehicle's appearance. 

Some Drawbacks To The 2024 Acura Integra

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S has earned some ho-hums from reviewers and critics. The fuel economy could be better, and some test drivers criticize the ride quality as a little rough or stiffer than expected, even in "comfort mode." 

The rear seat has also been noted to sit too low and cause a knees-up seating position, while the fast roofline cuts into headroom, which may be uncomfortable for taller passengers. 

Additionally, the Integra Type S infotainment system has been criticized as feeling dated. Perhaps, the most serious flaw pointed out by critics is the car’s base price, which some reviewers questioned its justification while admitting the Type S is a better car than many of its rivals in the sport sedan class. 

2024 Acura Integra Type S Versus The Competition

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S, Honda Civic Type R, and Audi S4 are the closest rivals in the small sport sedan class, each with its unique skill sets. 

Sharing a platform and numerous performance and interior tech components, the Honda Civic Type R and Integra Type S form a dynamic duo. However, the Integra Type S elevates the experience with a more upscale cabin, delivering a refined yet firm ride and adopting a subtly sophisticated styling approach compared to its Honda counterpart. 

Despite these distinctions, the Civic Type R is no pushover, showcasing comparable or even superior performance. As a daily driver, the Acura takes the lead in terms of practicality, yet both cars boast solid construction, stylish aesthetics, and an enjoyable driving experience. 

Stepping into a higher price bracket, the Audi S4 brings a premium touch to the competition. With a steeper price tag, the S4 offers a more upmarket interior, standard all-wheel drive (a feature absent in the Integra Type S), and an array of standard tech and comfort features. 

Both the Audi and Acura impress with intuitive infotainment systems, dynamic ride-and-handling capabilities, and spirited engines. However, the Integra Type S distinguishes itself with an extensive list of standard driver-assistance features and more cargo space. 

How Much Is The 2024 Acura Integra Type S?

The single-trim 2024 Acura Integra Type S enters the market with a starting price of $50,800. That money pays for a lot more than the 320-horsepower turbo-four engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, 19-inch alloy wheels equipped with summer tires, a limited-slip differential, an adaptive damper system, and a distinctive center-mounted triple exhaust. 

We didn’t mention the synthetic suede upholstery, a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. 

The tech features include a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster, a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless device charging, two USB ports, satellite radio, HD Radio, Bluetooth, a premium 16-speaker ELS audio system, and seamless connectivity through wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Convenience features include. 

For an extra $475 and $408, respectively, you get heated leather- or synthetic suede-wrapped steering wheels.