Acura has ignited excitement in the performance automotive world with the debut of the Integra Type S HRC Prototype, showcasing a thrilling new line of street and track-focused performance parts from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC). Unveiled during Monterey Car Week, a premier event for automotive and motorsports aficionados, the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype elevates the already impressive Integra Type S to new heights, promising an enhanced driving experience for Acura enthusiasts both on the road and the racetrack. This prototype embodies the potent combination of Acura’s Precision Crafted Performance DNA and HRC’s championship-winning engineering expertise.
Jon Ikeda, Senior Vice President of Honda Racing Corporation USA, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “HRC performance parts is an exciting concept aimed at forging a deeper connection with Acura and Honda enthusiasts who crave exclusive HRC race engineering to amplify their performance driving. The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype is a pure expression of performance. Every element is purposeful – if it doesn’t enhance performance, it’s not on the car.”
Spearheaded by HRC US in Southern California, the development of the Integra Type S HRC Prototype is meticulously engineered to refine every facet of the driving experience. From engine and suspension enhancements to braking prowess and significant weight reduction, this prototype vividly demonstrates the untapped potential of the Integra Type S, promising a substantial leap in performance for both street and track environments.
The public unveiling of the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype is set to take place at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, on Friday, August 16th.
Aerodynamic Enhancements Inspired by Racing
The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype boasts an aggressive and dynamic aesthetic, conceived at the Acura Design Studio in Los Angeles. Drawing directly from the aerodynamic development of the Integra Type S TCX racecar, the prototype incorporates functional aerodynamic elements to maximize downforce and improve stability at high speeds. This race-derived approach is evident in the redesigned front fascia featuring a larger splitter and cooling ducts, augmented hood vents, side splitters, and a meticulously crafted adjustable carbon fiber rear wing with aluminum uprights. These Acura Hrc enhancements are not merely cosmetic; they are engineered for tangible performance gains on the track.
The prototype’s striking visual presence is further amplified by the Indy Yellow Pearl paint, a color initially showcased on the second-generation NSX supercar. Custom milled aluminum HRC badges, proudly displayed on the grille, front fenders, and decklid, boldly signify its racing pedigree, bearing the same iconic logo seen on championship-winning Honda and Acura race machines in prestigious series like IndyCar, IMSA, and Formula 1.
Weight Reduction for Agile Performance
A core element of the Acura HRC philosophy is optimizing performance through weight reduction. The Integra Type S HRC Prototype strategically employs extensive carbon fiber components to achieve this goal. These include a carbon fiber hood, rear door panels, and aggressively bolstered one-piece Recaro bucket seats. Furthermore, the rear seat has been replaced with a bespoke carbon fiber shelf, ingeniously designed to securely transport four mounted wheels and tires – a practical feature for track-day enthusiasts.
Coupled with an optional air conditioning delete, these weight-saving measures culminate in an impressive reduction of nearly 200 lbs compared to the standard Integra Type S. This significant decrease in mass contributes directly to enhanced agility, responsiveness, and overall performance, aligning perfectly with the Acura HRC focus on track capability.
Enhanced Engine and Handling Dynamics
The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype elevates the performance of its high-revving turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC® engine with components derived from the Acura Integra Type S HRC TCX race car program. Improvements include a larger intercooler, twin oil coolers, and a meticulously tuned, lightweight cat-back exhaust system. These Acura HRC engine enhancements result in improved power output, quicker response, and enhanced cooling efficiency, crucial for demanding track conditions.
Handling is equally refined with a track-ready suspension lowered by 15mm. This system incorporates tuned coilovers, an adjustable rear anti-roll bar, and adjustable front and rear camber plates, mirroring the setup of the Integra Type S HRC TCX race car. Forged lightweight 19 x 9.5-inch wheels with an increased negative offset widen the front and rear track by 30mm, not only sharpening handling dynamics but also giving the prototype an assertive stance.
These performance wheels are shod with track-focused Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R ultra-high-performance tires (265/30ZR19) featuring a 60 Treadwear rating, maximizing grip and cornering prowess.
Braking performance is significantly upgraded with massive 15-inch two-piece front rotors (+1.4 inches larger than the standard Integra) and Brembo® 6-piston aluminum calipers. Two-piece rear rotors further reduce unsprung weight, while larger ducts in the front fascia optimize brake cooling by channeling more air to the front rotors.
Chassis rigidity is reinforced with a robust X-Brace in the rear bulkhead, finished in the same striking Indy Yellow Pearl paint as the exterior. This brace also serves as an attachment point for multipoint harnesses, underscoring the prototype’s track-focused intent. The interior experience is further enhanced with black Alcantara accents and color-matched yellow seatbelts, stitching, and trim, creating a premium performance ambiance.
Honda Racing Corporation USA: Driving Performance Innovation
Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) is the driving force behind Honda and Acura’s high-performance racing endeavors in North America. From top-tier racing programs in IndyCar and IMSA sports cars to supporting commercial racing initiatives and contributing to Honda’s Formula One program, HRC US embodies a commitment to racing excellence. Looking ahead, HRC will partner with the Aston Martin Aramco F1 team as the official engine supplier in 2026. With Formula 1’s growing presence in the U.S., HRC USA will play a vital role in Formula One power unit development and race support starting in 2026.
Established in Japan in 1982, HRC has a celebrated 40-year legacy of championship victories in global racing categories, including MotoGP, Superbike, Motocross, and Formula 1. In 2022, HRC expanded its scope to encompass auto racing, including the Honda F1 program.
Enthusiasts eager to learn more about the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype and future Acura HRC performance parts can sign up for updates here.
Acura: Precision Crafted Performance
Acura stands as a leading automotive brand synonymous with expressive design, innovative engineering, and engaging driving dynamics, all rooted in its Precision Crafted Performance DNA. The Acura lineup includes sport sedans like the Integra and TLX, and sport-utility vehicles such as the RDX, MDX, and the all-electric ZDX. The ADX SUV is set to join the lineup as a new entry model in 2025. High-performance Type S variants further exemplify Acura’s commitment to Precision Crafted Performance. All Acura vehicles sold in America are manufactured in the U.S., using both domestic and globally sourced parts.
Further information about Acura is available at: https://acuranews.com/en-US.
