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Motor 1
12-07-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
The Acura Integra Type S Isn't Worth the Extra Money: Video Review
When the Integra Type S debuted just two years ago, it was met with enthusiasm. It's the Civic Type R in Sunday slippers, a less hardcore, more road-focused Honda hot hatchback. The prospect was enticing, though I would argue the current-gen Type R is far from a hardcore, raw experience. Then, Acura released pricing and let journalists have a go. Suddenly, this new Acura became a $54,000 proposition, even more expensive than the already expensive $47,000 Type R, and it came with fewer performance features. For your extra money, you get heated seats that are practically lifted from the Integra A-Spec, a heads-up display, an ELS Studio 3D stereo, and a slight power bump over the Type R. The seats were apparently reprofiled specifically for the Integra Type S, but they can only be described as a downgrade compared to the Type R's incredible seats. Why couldn't they just put heating elements in the Type R's seats with some leather? Then, you lost the Type R's functional gauge cluster readouts for coolant, intake air, oil pressure, and boost, and the extremely cool shift lights. Rubbing that last granule of salt in the Type S paper cut is losing LogR, which stores detailed telemetry during track sessions. I can't help but feel it's an overall downgrade for even more money. The market spoke. Type Rs continue to be marked up and difficult to find at MSRP, while Integra Type S' trade below MSRP. Thus, I decided to re-explore the Integra Type S for our newest YouTube video to see if, at real-world cost parity, the Integra could truly compete with its stablemate. To find out, simply sit back and watch. More on the Integra Type S Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype Is Way Lighter Than the Standard Car 2024 Acura Integra Type S First Drive Review: Up To Eleven Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Car and Driver
01-07-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Acura TLX Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview The TLX is Acura's mid-sized sports sedan, one rung up from the smaller Integra. Its athletic proportions help this Acura stand apart from mainstream four-doors, but also exact a toll in rear-seat space. The upscale interior is nicely finished and not overwhelmingly techy—just make sure you're comfortable with the infotainment system's touchpad interface. A standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine can be had with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, while the performance-oriented Type S gets turbo–V-6 power and standard AWD. The Type S also gets a sportier suspension with adaptive dampers (which can be had on the mid-grade Advance model as well), although we like the standard setup just fine. Acura's pricing is more attractive than that of the BMW 3-series—particularly the six-cylinder M340i xDrive—but the Genesis G70's pricing is more attractive still. Expert Tip: If you regularly carry adults in the rear seat, the smaller Acura Integra actually has more rear legroom. What's New for 2026? The TLX is still fairly fresh following a styling update for the 2024 model year, so we expect to see no significant updates for 2026. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Acura TLX is expected to start around $47,000 and go up to $60,000 depending on the trim and options. Technology $47,000 (est) A-Spec $52,000 (est) Type S $60,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k $70k $80k $90k The 355-hp Type S occupies the top spot in the TLX lineup in both performance and price. While its verve makes it our favorite, it comes standard with luxuries such as adaptive dampers, leather upholstery, and an ELS premium audio system. Engine, Transmission, and Performance Engines: 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder; 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder; 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 Transmission: 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic Drivetrains: front-wheel-drive; all-wheel-drive The regular TLX features a 272-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder lashed to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and Acura's all-wheel-drive system, which is called SH-AWD and shuffles power among the wheels to improve agility and traction, is optional. The TLX's well-tuned chassis makes it very entertaining to drive and shows that Acura can still build a sports sedan. This sentiment is especially true of the higher-performance Type S, which boasts a 355-hp turbo 3.0-liter V-6, a responsive 10-speed auto, SH-AWD, and a sportier suspension setup. Unlike the regular TLX, it's available with stickier summer tires on 20-inch wheels. Our latest test drive showcased its gutsy engine, engaging steering, terrific body control, and strong brakes. However, the Type S does have a firm ride that doesn't mask road imperfections, and it didn't feel as nimble as shorter, sportier competitors such as the Audi S5. 0–60-MPH Times In Comparison: While the Type S model is notably quicker than the base TLX, it's still behind the BMW M340i, which managed a 3.7-second 60 mph time in our testing. View Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG C/D 75-mph Highway Fuel-Economy Test: 30 mpg (base AWD) 30 mpg (base AWD) EPA City Ratings: 19-22 mpg 19-22 mpg EPA Highway Ratings: 25-31 mpg The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 TLX yet, but the 2025 model earned ratings as high as 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for the front-wheel-drive four-cylinder version. The V-6 Type S had lower estimates of 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. All versions are a few mpg lower than their equivalent BMW 3-series rivals. The all-wheel-drive, four-cylinder model we ran on our 75-mph fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, returned 30 mpg. For more information about the TLX's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo First Row: The TLX has an expressive cabin design that highlights the car's sporty character. That's particularly true of the Advance and Type S models' available two-tone black-and-red or black-and-white (called Orchid) color treatments. Build quality is excellent, and the TLX also boasts premium cabin materials, including open-pore wood, real aluminum, and standard leather. The dash is sculpted and still features a good number of physical buttons and controls rather than over-relying on screens. Customizable ambient-lighting settings are each named after iconic driving destinations and racetracks, such as "Pacific Coast" and "Suzuka." Second Row: Although the sedan feels spacious in width, rear-seat knee clearance is somewhat wanting, and the smaller Integra has more rear legroom. Otherwise, the seats are well-cushioned and comfortable. Cargo Capacity: The trunk measures 13.5 cubic feet, and the rear seatbacks can fold down to expand cargo capacity. We managed to fit six carry-on suitcases inside the trunk and packed in an extra 10 cases when we folded the rear seatbacks. View Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity Infotainment: 12.3-inch display with touchpad 12.3-inch display with touchpad Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Audio System: 13-speaker ELS stereo (standard); 17-speaker ELS Studio 3D stereo (optional) Every TLX features a 12.3-inch infotainment system that's primarily controlled through a touchpad on the center console. A padded resting place for your wrist below the touchpad makes it more comfortable to operate, but hitting the right spot on the screen by moving your finger on the touchpad is a somewhat awkward disconnect—more so if you use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, because their targets are smaller than the native Acura system's. Thankfully, some functions can also be manipulated via steering-wheel buttons and physical controls next to the touchpad. Besides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (both wireless), the TLX also includes a Wi-Fi hotspot. Those who want the fancier ELS sound system and a wireless charging pad will have to opt for the Advance package or the Type S. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Every TLX comes standard with AcuraWatch, which includes a host of driver-assistance features. The sedan also has other equipment, such as traffic-sign recognition and a driver-awareness monitor. For information about the TLX's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard Safety Features: automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control Optional Safety Features: 360-degree exterior camera system Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Acura provides one of the longest powertrain warranties on the market, and its limited warranty aligns with most of the TLX's rivals, such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Mercedes C-class. Limited Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain Warranty: six years or 70,000 miles six years or 70,000 miles Complimentary Maintenance: two years or 24,000 miles C/D Test Results and Specs We test every vehicle we can. Data in the chart below may be for a different model year if the model remained unchanged from when we last tested it. Specifications Specifications 2024 Acura TLX Type S Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan PRICE Base/As Tested: $58,195/$62,478 Options: 20-inch copper-colored wheels with Pirelli P Zero summer tires, $3441; Urban Gray Pearl paint, $600; premium carpeted floor mats, $242 ENGINE turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection Displacement: 183 in3, 2997 cm3 Power: 355 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque: 354 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm TRANSMISSION 10-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: control arms/multilink Brakes, F/R: 14.3-in vented disc/13.0-in disc Tires: Pirelli P Zero PZ4 255/35R-20 97Y Extra Load DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 113.0 in Length: 194.6 in Width: 75.2 in Height: 56.4 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 53/40 ft3 Trunk Volume: 14 ft3 Curb Weight: 4212 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 4.6 sec 100 mph: 11.8 sec 1/4-Mile: 13.3 sec @ 105 mph 130 mph: 21.9 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.2 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.1 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.9 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 156 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 155 ft Braking, 100–0 mph: 311 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.99 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 21 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 21/19/25 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Auto Blog
27-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
The Rarest Acura Ever Built Has Nothing to Do With the Integra Type R
Ask any Honda and Acura enthusiast what the rarest model the Japanese automaker produced is, and chances are they'll say, 'the Integra Type R.' It's a solid guess, considering the high-revving performance coupe was only produced for a few short years and in limited numbers, but that's not the correct answer. Look a little deeper into Acura's production history, and you will uncover a model that's even rarer than the beloved Type R. It's so obscure that most people probably don't even know it exists. That model is the 2003 Acura CL Type S with a six-speed manual transmission. Sure, the Acura CL was a popular car, as it was produced from 1997 to 2003. However, nearly all of them were offered with an automatic transmission. It wasn't until its final year that Acura offered a manual option, making this variant a true unicorn. 2003 Acura CL Type S — Source: Acura Sleeker and more luxurious than an Integra Type R The Acura CL was based on the Honda Accord platform and was essentially sold as a sporty two-door version of the mid-size Acura TL. In its early years, the Acura CL was offered with either a 2.2-liter, four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter V6. Positioned between the sporty Integra and the larger TL sedan, the CL offered a comfortable blend of performance and luxury. 2003 Acura CL Type S The CL gained enough popularity that Acura revised it for its second generation, which started in 2001. The redesign included a longer, wider body and sleeker aesthetics inside and out. Under its hood was a larger 3.2-liter V6 engine, as the four-cylinder engine and manual transmission options were dropped entirely in favor of a more powerful Type S variant. However, its performance was initially hampered by a weak point: the automatic transmission. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. The automatic transmission was notorious for having issues, which included torque converter problems, slipping gears, and premature failure, which was an unfortunate trait shared with other Honda and Acura models at the time. In response, Acura offered a six-speed manual transmission for the 2003 model year, making the CL Type S far more appealing to driving enthusiasts. 2003 Acura CL Type S The Acura CL 6MT was a sleeper The manual-equipped 2003 Acura CL Type S boasted 260 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, which allowed it to keep up with the BMW 3 Series at the time. It could dash to highway speeds from a standstill in the low six-second range, all while coddling its occupants in leather-trimmed comfort. The Acura CL was not only about performance, but it was also comfortable. Its interior was adorned with plush leather seats, a sunroof, and a Bose premium audio system. The rear seat area could accommodate two adults, and the cargo area could fit a few suitcases for a weekend getaway. Considering its power and luxury, the CL Type S was more comfortable than the fabled Integra Type R, and it delivered the same amount of performance. 2003 Acura 3.2 CL Type-S. The editors at Car and Driver noted, 'Not only does this update enhance the driving experience—more interaction between man and machine, less likelihood of excessive cell phone usage—it lends an extra element of sportiness to a car that, for all its excellence, needed it.' Final thoughts Since Acura only produced the CL Type S with a manual transmission for one year, finding one in today's market is no easy task. Acura built only 2,690 units without navigation and 820 units with it in the U.S., leaving the grand total at 3,510 units for 2003. It's even rarer in the north, as Canada received just 331 units. By comparison, the Acura produced a total of 3,822 Integra Type R models throughout its four-year production run, which lasted from 1997 to 1998 and then from 2000 to 2001, after a mild refresh. Speaking of rare Acuras, another rarity is the NSX Zanardi Edition, which was a special edition that paid tribute to professional racecar driver Alex Zanardi. Acura only produced 51 of these special edition cars, but it was far more out of reach to the masses due to costing well over $100,000, which was double the Acura CL Type S and Integra Type R's price tags. 2003 Acura CL Type S The CL Type S 6MT, by contrast, remains a little more attainable. Clean examples can be found for anywhere between $10,000 and $20,000 nationwide, depending on the car's condition and location. However, if you do find one, you'll have one of Acura's hidden gems, and you won't have to worry about it getting stolen like the Integra Type R or having to shell out over $100,000 for an NSX Zanardi Edition. About the Author Joe Santos View Profile
Motor 1
07-06-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Why Isn't the Acura TLX Type S Better? Video Review
There are many trite sayings about chefs, ingredients, and the like, as they relate to tuning a car. All of which I would like to say about the facelifted 2025 Acura TLX Type S, because it is a lesson in the importance of execution over raw parts. With its 355-horsepower single-turbo 3.0-liter V-6, frankly excellent all-wheel drive, and dual-wishbone front suspension—it has no excuses. Yet it falls just short. Type S has been around since 2001 as a sub-brand within Acura. It always represented something accessible yet forbidden—close to Honda Type R's but not quite, thanks to a luxury twist. The first was the 2001 Acura CL Type S, but the most truly memorable Type S cars were the Acura RSX Type S and TL Type S from 2002. The RSX got a 200 horsepower, 8,000 rpm K20 four-cylinder engine, while the TL got larger Brembo brakes and a handling package to better complement its 286-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6. The TLX Type S, then, represents an extreme Type S product. Acura painstakingly developed the aforementioned 3.0 V-6 just for the MDX and TLX Type S . The TLX is a car unique to Acura, with special body construction allowing a large (for a front-drive based car) dash-to-axle ratio. Even with every ingredient, it commits just a few critical (and fixable) sins. Watch our newest YouTube video to find out where it fell short. More Video Reviews Is the 911 Hybrid Still a True Porsche? Video Review The 2025 BMW M3 Competition Is a German GT-R: Video Review Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Miami Herald
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
4 Best 2025 Front-Wheel Drive Cars That Are Surprisingly Fun to Drive
We're huge devotees of rear-wheel drive (RWD) cars simply because they tend to be more dynamic and thrilling to drive. Before the '80s, RWD was the dominant drivetrain, but due to the fuel crisis and advancements in front-wheel drive (FWD) technology, RWD cars started to take a back seat. By the late '90s, most American automakers were building more FWD than RWD vehicles. FWD vehicles were more fuel efficient and more tractable in winter, but they were generally not as much fun to drive. How times have changed. Technology such as suspension tuning, torque vectoring, and performance engineering has made today's FWD cars surprisingly wonderful to drive. For 2025, several standout models have taken the FWD formula and injected it with performance, sharp handling, and personality. Whether you're looking for a sport compact, a family sedan, or even a small crossover, these four front-wheel-drive cars prove that fun and function can coexist. Here's a look at four 2025 FWD vehicles that are genuinely a blast to drive. Who would've imagined the second coming of the Integra would be better than the original? Well, that's exactly what has happened. The regular Integra is impressive, but it's the Type S variant that truly thrills driving enthusiasts. The 2025 Acura Integra Type S ($51,800) is the pinnacle of performance in Acura's front-wheel-drive lineup and shares much of its underpinnings with the Honda Civic Type R but with premium appointments and more power. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. A slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission with rev-matching keeps driver engagement high, and the limited-slip differential ensures that the power is put to the pavement without excessive wheel spin. Where the Integra Type S shines is in its balance. It's as at home on twisty roads as it is on the daily commute. Acura has tuned the adaptive suspension for both comfort and performance, while the chassis remains taut and responsive. The steering is impressively sharp, turn-in is immediate, and the exhaust note is satisfyingly aggressive. You'd never guess a FWD car could be this much fun. The 315-horsepower 2025 Honda Civic Type R isn't on this list because it's more or less the more "affordable" version of the aforementioned Acura Integra Type S. But that doesn't mean the 200-horsepower Honda Civic Si ($30,250) isn't incredible to drive. It inherits the accessible performance legacy of the Civic Si that's been around since 1986, but is now bigger, quicker, and more mature. You could argue that it's less juvenile than the Type R, and you'd be right. It might just be the perfect daily driver for sensible enthusiasts. Powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four making 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, the Civic Si may not be the most powerful car on this list, but its lightweight chassis and well-tuned suspension make it incredibly fun to toss. The Si's slick 6-speed manual transmission is standard, enhanced by rev-matching for perfectly executed downshifts. The Si even gets a standard limited-slip differential, a sport-tuned suspension, and nicely matched and very progressive brakes. Even with front-wheel drive, torque steer is well managed, and the car feels planted and eager through turns. Add in the Civic's wonderfully sporty and ergonomic interior, along with excellent visibility, and you have a driver's car that punches well above its price tag. Learn more here. Kia's K5 GT ($33,290) is surprisingly thrilling, especially when compared to its less-than-exciting Optima predecessor. The K5 GT is proof that FWD midsize sedans can still be exciting, especially when they're equipped with a potent engine, bigger brakes, unique suspension tuning, and fatter rubber than its lesser-trimmed K5 brethren. For 2025, the K5 GT continues to push the boundaries of what a family-friendly four-door can do. This stylish sedan is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four that puts 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque on tap. It sends that power to the front wheels via a quick-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Despite its size, the K5 GT handles impressively well. The steering is quick, and the suspension keeps body roll in check. The ride is firm but not upsetting. It's a bit more composed than raw, but for drivers who want something stylish, spacious, and fun to drive, the K5 GT delivers. It's more civilized than a hot hatch but still a compelling sports sedan that can take the family along for a ride. Learn more here. The words "fun to drive" and "Chevrolet Trax" might not typically go together, but the 2025 Trax ($20,500) model has undergone such a dramatic transformation compared to the first-generation that it's earned a rightful place on this list. While it's not a performance vehicle in the traditional sense, the redesigned Trax brings a level of agility and affordable charm that's unexpected in the budget crossover segment. The 2025 Trax comes with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that makes just 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels. While that may not sound thrilling, the Trax's light 3,014-lb curb weight and nimble chassis make it surprisingly responsive around town. Its steering is well-weighted, the ride is composed, and there's a genuine sense of connection to the road that's rare in small crossovers. Chevy has clearly paid attention to the Trax's driving dynamics, and it shows. Combine that with a comfy interior and a huge 11-inch touchscreen on higher trims, and you have a fun-to-drive commuter that doesn't break the bank. Learn more here. Front-wheel-drive cars have come a long way, and the 2025 model year proves that excitement and engagement don't require power to the rear or all four wheels. Whether you're carving corners in a Civic Si, blasting through gears in an Integra Type S, or simply enjoying the playful demeanor of a Chevrolet Trax, these vehicles prove that driving fun isn't relegated to sports cars that drive the rear wheels only. So if you've written off FWD as merely functional, think again - because these four cars are more than up to the task of scratching that driving fun itch. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
