Acura Integra Type S climbs Pikes Peak with performance and precision

The legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is a proving ground where automotive engineering meets the edge of performance—11 miles of twisting tarmac, 156 turns, and a climb to over 14,000 feet above sea level. It’s where speed meets stamina, and where manufacturers flex their most ambitious innovations. This year, Acura returned with a fierce competitor: the 2024 Integra Type S. Reviving the spirit of racing while showcasing cutting-edge technology, this high-performance variant hit the mountain with purpose—and proved its prowess.

In this in-depth post, we’ll explore how the 2024 Acura Integra Type S conquered one of the most grueling uphill battles in motorsport. We’ll dive into its design, engineering, performance specs, and what it means for car enthusiasts and dealers. Buckle up—this is more than a spec sheet. This is a declaration.

The Return of a Legend: Acura at Pikes Peak

Acura is no stranger to Pikes Peak. Over the years, the automaker has used the race both as a testbed and a podium for innovation. The 2024 Integra Type S marks a dynamic return to form, emphasizing Acura’s serious commitment to performance and motorsport DNA.

The Integra Type S ran in the Exhibition class, which prioritizes innovation and novelty. This category allows manufacturers to stretch boundaries—perfect for a car that’s as experimental as it is road-ready.

• Event: 2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
• Class: Exhibition
• Driver: Paul Hubers, Acura R&D engineer with motorsport experience

With a factory-built car and race-hardened engineering, Acura blended production cred with racetrack-relevant precision.

Integra Type S: Performance That Speaks Loudly

Powertrain and Performance

At the heart of the Integra Type S is a 2.0-liter VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder engine borrowed (and refined) from the Civic Type R. It churns out:

• Horsepower: 320 hp @ 6500 rpm
• Torque: 310 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed manual with rev-matching
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive with a helical limited-slip differential

This combination delivers a thrilling driving experience, particularly when coupled with a lightweight performance chassis and high-grip rubber. The car’s mechanical setup is remarkably balanced, providing the feedback and agility needed to ascend the intimidating slopes of Pikes Peak.

Handling and Suspension

The enhanced suspension system includes dual-axis front struts for reduced torque steer—essential for tight corners under high power. Adaptive dampers round out the package, giving the car immense composure in both race and street conditions.

• Front Suspension: MacPherson strut with dual-axis geometry
• Rear Suspension: Multi-link with performance-tuned bushings
• Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S

At altitude, even subtle chassis tweaks matter. Acura fine-tuned damper settings specifically for the Pikes Peak course, proving its willingness to engineer beyond the brochure.

Pikes Peak Results: Beyond the Summit

In its debut, the 2024 Integra Type S placed respectably, clocking in at an impressive time—though it didn’t aim for outright victory, it was a developmental statement.

Race Data Highlights

• Lap Time: Approx. 10 minutes, 45 seconds
• Temperature at Summit: 47°F
• Elevation Gain: 4,720 feet over 12.42 miles

But the Integra Type S’s achievement goes far beyond numbers. It validates the Type S badge as more than cosmetic—it’s a badge that rises to challenges.

Design: Aerodynamic, Athletic, Assertive

The Integra Type S doesn’t just perform—it commands attention. Physically wider and more aggressive than the standard model, it’s perfectly suited for spirited driving and showroom appeal.

Exterior Features

• Wider Track: Expanded by 2.8 inches over base Integra
• Triple Exhaust: Center-mounted, performance-tuned
• Wheels: 19-inch alloys with matte black finish
• Brake Calipers: Brembo, in striking red finish

This sleek yet functional design reduces lift and enhances high-speed stability—vital for both the street and iconic climbs like Pikes Peak.

Interior Experience

Inside, the cabin balances utility and sport. Alcantara accents, contrast-stitched sport seats, and aluminum pedals create an immediate sense of intent.

• Display Screens: 10.2-inch digital cluster & 9.0-inch touchscreen
• Infotainment: Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Sound: ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio

The cabin mirrors the driving experience: refined but unashamedly performance-minded.

Technology That’s Track-Tested

While the Pikes Peak climb didn’t require lane assists or adaptive cruise, the Integra Type S is packed with daily-drivability tech that doesn’t dilute its dynamic capabilities.

Driver Assistance Features

• Collision Mitigation Braking System
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Blind Spot Information System

Through its performance, it proves that modern safety doesn’t mean compromise—a pivotal argument for automotive dealers looking to appeal to both performance purists and practical buyers.

How the Integra Type S Benefits Dealers and Enthusiasts

For Dealers

For automotive dealers, the Integra Type S presents a clean gateway into Acura’s strengthened Type S portfolio, offering:

• Broader Market Appeal: Engages both luxury buyers and performance enthusiasts
• Aftermarket Opportunity: OEM tunability translates to high accessory margins
• Brand Halo Effects: Generates foot traffic and buzz across Acura’s lineup

For Enthusiasts

The 2024 Integra Type S reignites Acura’s motorsport spirit in a platform that enthusiasts can daily drive, modify, and proudly race.

• Track-Capable, Road-Legal: Office commute by week, canyon run by weekend
• Manual Transmission: A rare and rewarding find in today’s market
• Engineering Transparency: Mod-friendly design with clear development lineage

The Pikes Peak run cements its reputation—not just as a fast car, but as a foundational piece of Acura’s racing soul rebuilt for the road.

Pricing and Availability

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S enters the market with a competitive starting price and compelling value in its class:

• MSRP: Starting at $51,995
• Estimated Arrival: Summer 2024 in U.S. dealerships

Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf R and certain BMW M-lite models, it holds its ground gracefully, offering precision engineering at a less daunting price point.

The Future of Type S: Performance Renaissance

The Integra Type S is a gateway to more than just adrenaline—it’s a symbol of Acura’s reinvigorated identity. Already, Acura is expanding the Type S nameplate across the brand, hinting that more specialized launches await. From the TLX to the MDX, the “S” is now a performance emblem that commands respect.

At Pikes Peak, the Integra Type S made a bold statement: performance isn’t optional—it’s destiny.

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Conclusion: From Mountain to Market, the Integra Rises

Pikes Peak isn’t merely a hill—it’s a benchmark. And by choosing to pit the Integra Type S against it, Acura reaffirmed the model’s evolution from a cult classic to a contemporary icon. For car enthusiasts, it’s validation; for dealers, it’s opportunity. Precision-engineered for thrill-seekers yet adaptable for daily life, the 2024 Integra Type S is more than a car—it’s a pulse-pounding promise of what’s next.

Whether you’re on the track, in the showroom, or behind the wheel, the Integra Type S belongs in your conversation.