Acura has reinvented its lineup in recent years by offering more performance, distinguishable style and technology, ingredients that made the brand an overnight success in the late 1980s as the first Japanese luxury vehicle brand in North America. Type S models have always represented the best of Acura in performance, style, and technology, and for 2024, the Integra, updated TLX sports sedan (not featured here), and MDX SUV can each be had in Type S form.
Every Chinese Canadian Gen Xer or millennial who grew up here and are lifelong car enthusiasts will remember the Integra nameplate. It’s back, but to get the highest-performing variant, you must choose the Type S model which comes only in manual transmission. If you want an automatic, you are limited to the less powerful Integra A-SPEC.
The Integra Type S’s manual transmission offers fantastic shifter feel and a special fun-to-drive factor. Its eager 320-horsepower 2.0L turbocharged engine (310 lb-ft of torque) was strong at all rev ranges. There are 4 drive modes to choose from that alters the vehicle’s throttle, steering, suspension, exhaust, and shift settings. Sport+ is the most aggressive drive mode that unlocks all of the vehicle’s available power, handling prowess, and sporty character.
The styling is sharp, with Type S-exclusive touches like wide fender flares, a more aggressive-looking rear bumper, and three centre-mounted exhaust tips. The exhaust system features an active valve that enhances noise at higher revs in Sport+ mode for a sportier driving experience.
Despite being front wheel drive, the Integra’s advanced front suspension design eliminated perceptible torque steer, and with a limited-slip differential and a sport-tuned adaptive suspension, the car handled confidently and effortlessly. The front Brembo® brakes felt strong and well-tuned braking at all speeds.
High-tech interior features include an all-digital gauge cluster, a head-up display, a 16-speaker premium sound system, and wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™. Its rear liftback design enables more cargo capacity (688 L) than competitors with a deep trunk and wide-open loading space.
Safety is another strength of the Integra Type S with 10 total airbags, specially designed head-cradling front airbags, and a full suite of driver assist aids.
The MDX quickly became one of Acura’s best-selling vehicles because of its family-friendly versatility, comfort, and reliability. With the first-ever MDX Type S now available, it offers buyers more power, standout style, and Acura’s best in luxury and technology.
The phenomenal front heated and ventilated seats can adjust 16 ways with power side bolsters and thigh support extenders. Along with beautiful red stitching accents, these seats also offer massaging functions with 9 programs to choose from.
Passengers also enjoy a fantastic 25-speaker ELS Studio® premium audio system, along with a height-adjustable air suspension that rides smoothly and can automatically lower the vehicle when you park.
The 2nd row seating offers good leg room, 4-way adjustment for the outboard seats, climate controls, a household power outlet, and a flat floor that enables the middle passenger to enjoy more foot room. The 3rd row is best for children only. Cargo space is excellent, and the seats can fold completely flat to accommodate more cargo.
With a 355-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine (354 lb.-ft. of torque) paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the MDX Type S drives smoothly, but you need to rev the engine high to get moving quickly from a standstill. The engine’s power is more noticeable at higher speeds when you need a swell of passing power. Its Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) system and adaptive dampers help provide confident handling, especially in Sport+ drive mode. The high-performance front Brembo® brakes felt strong.
The MDX Type S Ultra is more of an opulent SUV with sporty looks and a sprinkle of extra power than it is a truly sporty beast, but it’s unique enough for us to recommend as an understated premium family hauler offering sharp road presence (especially in black) with gloss black exterior accents, unique lighting, stylish 21-inch black wheels and 4 polished exhaust tips. Those who value comfort and peace of mind will enjoy the sublime front seat comfort, high build quality, and one of the best AWD systems available.
