Since the new Integra has been confirmed, the complete automotive world is talking about the comeback of the legendary compact performance car from the 90s. Car enthusiasts still considering probably the best FWD car ever made and from our experience, that’s not far from the truth at all. That model was super light, with super-precise handling and the legendary V-TEC engine that revs all-away up to 9.000 RPMs. The new model will be slightly different, adapted to the modern age. However, its essence will remain the same, we believe. The great news is that the new generation will come in a high-performance variant, as the 2023 Acura Integra Type R.
That model will come with additional upgrades over the standard model, which already comes with a full pack of features. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is the engine, but we also count on all kinds of chassis upgrades, even sportier suspension, bigger brakes and similar things. Without any doubt, that model will also come with lots of unique styling details, which will accentuate its high-performance character.
We believe that the 2023 Acura Integra Type R will be ready for the second half of the next year, though the officials are still quiet.
2023 Acura Integra Type R Design
When it comes to base design characteristics, we expect no surprises. The new Integra will replace the old ILX, which means it will compete in the segment of small premium sedans. Therefore, most of its parts will be shared with the new, 11th generation of Civic, which has just been released. That platform will be a perfect basis for the new Integra, as the new Civic is light and super engaging to drive.
Of course, this also means that the new Integra will get bigger, as the wheelbase will probably go up to 107.7 inches. Still, we are pretty sure that this won’t affect its maneuverability and overall agility.
In the case of 2023 Acura Integra Type R, we expect all kinds of upgrades. First of all, we presume that the company will do additional modifications to the suspension setup, which should share a lot of components with the upcoming Civic Type R. Naturally, the brakes will also be bigger compared to standard models. A limited-slip differential is a certain thing, as it will be a standard feature even in the most basic version of the new Integra.
Styling
When it comes to styling, the new look will certainly be based on the standard version. You may count on the same 4-door sedan/liftback layout, which will follow to the brand’s latest design language. Of course, we have no doubt that the new model will come with lots of exclusive styling details that accentuate its performance character. That would start with more aggressive bumpers, as well as with other upgraded parts of the body kit, such as side skirts, front splitter, rear diffusor etc. A decently sized rear spoiler is another thing we expect to see, along with an upgraded exhaust system. Other things that come to our minds are unique wheels designs, exclusive color options etc.
Interior
The interior of the next-generation Integra is still a mystery, so we could say the same for the 2023 Acura Integra Type R. Still, some of the things are relatively easy to predict. As we are talking about a four-door sedan with over 107 inches in wheelbase, there is no doubt that there will be plenty of passenger room. Both rows should be able to accommodate adults pretty easily, which would be a great plus for a sports car like this.
When it comes to the dashboard design and overall cabin layout, we might see some inspiration from the rest of Acura’s lineup, but there’s no doubt that the new Integra will come with a plethora of unique design solutions as well, which will resemble the predecessor’s design. The 2023 Acura Integra Type R will come with additional upgrades. Some of the first things that come to our mind are sports seats, upgraded steering wheel, exclusive gear shifter, aluminum pedals, unique color schemes and some exclusive materials.
Of course, we are also pretty sure that the new Integra Type R will come packed with a full load of the latest tech features. Count on a similar infotainment system to the one found in the new Civic. Still, we wouldn’t be surprised to see a bigger screen. Also, we count on lots of the latest connectivity features, including wireless smartphone integration. Furthermore, the list of standard and available safety and driver-assistance features should be pretty long as well.
2023 Acura Integra Type R Engine
We have finally come to the most interesting part of the new 2023 Acura Integra Type R. For now, we know for sure that standard models will come with Honda’s familiar 1.5-liter turbo-four engine, which puts out around 205 horsepower. That’s the same version of the engine that powers the new Civic Si, and it should provide pretty decent performance for an entry-level car.
When it comes to the 2023 Acura Integra Type R, we presume it will use the same 2.0-liter turbo-four as the Civic Type R. This engine will probably get some upgrades for the new models, and we presume that the max output will increase to somewhere between 320 and 350 horsepower. With all that power, the new Integra should be able to hit sixty in about five seconds, while the top speed should go over 170 mph.
Of course, the engine will be paired with Honda’s famous 6-speed manual transmission, which is arguably the best manual gearbox you can find today (along with Porsche’s manual transmission).
What About Hybrid Powertrain?
Some sources also speculate about the possibility to see the new Integra with a hybrid powertrain. That would probably be a new, plug-in hybrid setup, with electric motors on rear wheels. Purists would definitely say that such a layout doesn’t belong to Integra, which has always been the other name for an FWD sports car, but if we consider that we are living in the era of electrification, this actually seems like a logical next step. We presume things will be clearer in the next few months.
2023 Acura Integra Type R Release Date and Price
At thispoint, it is hard to talk about a more precise date. However, we believe that the new performer could hit the market already in the second half of the next year. While the base model will probably cost around 30.000 dollars.
We presume that the 2023 Acura Integra Type R price would go around $45.000. Key competitors should be models like Audi S3, BMW 2 Series M240i etc.