FYI: Acura unveils the Integra Type S HRC Prototype, packed with performance enhancements and sleek aerodynamic design.
Unveiling the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype: A Performance Powerhouse
The Acura Integra Type S already makes waves with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine and agile handling. But at Monterey Car Week’s The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering, Acura revealed a new iteration that takes performance and style to unprecedented levels—the Integra Type S HRC Prototype.
Performance-Driven Design
Presented ahead of its official public debut, the Integra Type S HRC Prototype comes with an array of upgrades engineered by Honda Racing Corporation (HRC). According to Jon Ikeda, Senior Vice President of Honda Racing Corporation USA, "Every spec of the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype screams performance. Everything is functional—if it doesn’t add performance, it isn’t on the car."
Enhanced Aerodynamics and Eye-Catching Style
The exterior is outfitted with numerous aerodynamic modifications, including a larger front splitter, enhanced cooling ducts, more prominent hood vents, side splitters, and a carbon fiber adjustable rear wing with aluminum uprights. All these enhancements aim to boost both looks and function. The prototype’s striking Indy Yellow Pearl paint—originally seen on the second-generation NSX—pairs with custom aluminum HRC badges adorning the front fenders, grille, and trunk lid.
Interior Details
Step inside, and you’ll find black Alcantara upholstery complemented by yellow seat belts, stitching, and trim—an interior designed to match its sporty exterior.
Weight Savings for Performance
Several components aim to reduce weight, thereby enhancing performance. Carbon fiber is employed for the hood, rear door panels, and Recaro bucket seats. The rear seats have been removed, replaced by a carbon shelf capable of mounting four wheels and tires for handy trackside use. Additionally, discarding the air conditioning system could save drivers up to 200 pounds.
Engine and Cooling Systems
While Acura has yet to disclose the exact horsepower increase over the standard 315 hp, they assure that engine output, response, and cooling have all been improved. Notable enhancements include a larger intercooler, twin oil coolers, and a lightweight cat-back exhaust system—technologies borrowed from the Type S HRC TCX race car.
Handling and Suspension Upgrades
The Integra Type S HRC Prototype benefits from a 0.6-inch lower suspension achieved via coilovers, an adjustable rear anti-roll bar, and front and rear adjustable camber plates. These modifications sit atop lightweight forged 19×9.5-inch wheels that expand the track width by 1.2 inches. Mounted on these wheels are sticky 265/30 Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires, known for their excellent track performance.
Braking System Enhancements
To stop this performance beast, upgraded brakes include 15.0-inch two-piece front rotors and 6-piston Brembo calipers, improvements over the stock 13.8-inch rotors and 4-piston calipers. To enhance front brake cooling, larger ducts have been integrated into the new fascia.
The Road Ahead
Don’t expect a full production run of the Integra Type S HRC Prototype. However, it’s likely that many of these high-performance components will be offered through HRC channels. Enthusiasts and drivers alike should stay tuned for further updates.
Conclusion
Acura has successfully pushed the boundaries of the Integra Type S with the HRC Prototype, introducing a slew of enhancements that promise an exhilarating driving experience both on the street and the track. As more details emerge, performance fans have a lot to look forward to.
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Steven Hale, Editor of Automotive.fyi
