Acura is back with a vengeance, bringing its legendary Integra nameplate into the modern era with the 2025 Acura Integra Type S. After a long hiatus, the Integra returns with a promise to deliver the perfect balance of performance, practicality, and everyday usability.
This yearlong review dives deep into the performance, driving experience, and overall value of the 2025 Integra Type S, giving enthusiasts a closer look at how this modern classic stacks up. From VTEC-powered thrills to comfortable commutes, here’s everything you need to know.
The Return of the 2025 Acura Integra: A Modern Take on a Classic
For many car enthusiasts, the Integra name carries significant weight. Historically, the Acura Integra was the go-to vehicle for those who craved a mix of everyday comfort and high-performance thrills. With the 2025 Integra Type S, Acura blends that same sense of excitement with the latest in automotive engineering. This time, however, the Integra comes with even more power and refinement.
Built on the same platform as the Honda Civic Type R, the 2025 Acura Integra Type S features a VTEC-equipped 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. Delivering a robust 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, the new Integra Type S brings the excitement of VTEC back to life. For fans of the iconic variable valve timing system, the engine’s performance proves that Acura hasn’t forgotten its roots.
VTEC-Powered Performance: Handling and Thrills on the Road
If you’re a fan of the VTEC system, the 2025 Acura Integra Type S will undoubtedly excite. Acura’s VTEC technology has been a hallmark of the brand, offering a distinctive and thrilling boost in performance as the engine revs climb. This Integra Type S’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers power smoothly, with a noticeable increase in performance once the VTEC kicks in. The feeling of the engine unlocking its full potential is just one of the joys that come with driving this car.
In the MotorTrend yearlong review, the Integra Type S impressed with its sharp handling, precision steering, and exceptional grip through corners. Whether tackling twisty backroads or cruising at highway speeds, the Integra Type S offers an engaging and satisfying driving experience. The car’s suspension has been finely tuned to offer a ride that is both sporty and surprisingly comfortable for daily use.
One of the standout features of the Integra Type S is its six-speed manual transmission, which pairs beautifully with the VTEC engine. The manual gearbox provides direct engagement, making it a dream for enthusiasts who crave that visceral connection to the car. Whether you’re in Comfort Mode for a relaxed commute or Sport Mode for a spirited drive, the manual shifts make every journey feel like a performance event.
Acura’s Signature Balance: Performance and Practicality
The 2025 Acura Integra Type S isn’t just a performance machine — it’s also an incredibly practical option for everyday drivers. While its performance credentials put it squarely in the enthusiast’s camp, Acura has ensured that the Integra Type S is a car you can drive every day without compromise.
With a spacious interior and a hatchback design, the Integra Type S offers ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for those who need both utility and performance. The rear seats are comfortable for adults, and the Acura infotainment system, while not perfect, provides modern connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
While the ride quality is firm, it’s not punishing, and the cabin remains relatively quiet for a car in this performance category. Whether you’re running errands or embarking on a weekend road trip, the Integra Type S serves as a well-rounded vehicle that doesn’t sacrifice comfort for speed.
Fuel Efficiency: Surprising Performance with a Side of Efficiency
A concern many performance car buyers face is fuel efficiency. Fortunately, the 2025 Integra Type S offers a surprisingly good balance. Despite its performance-oriented powertrain, the car manages to offer reasonable fuel economy for its class, achieving around 26 mpg combined according to the MotorTrend review. While it won’t match the economy of a hybrid, the fuel efficiency of the Integra Type S is impressive for a car boasting 320 horsepower and a turbocharged VTEC engine.
When you buy an Acura, you’re investing in a car with a strong reputation for reliability and quality, and the 2025 Integra Type S is no exception. After a year of real-world testing, the Integra Type S showed no major mechanical issues. The build quality is solid, and the performance has remained consistent. Acura’s attention to detail and commitment to engineering excellence ensures that this car will continue to perform reliably for years to come.
Final Thoughts: Is the 2025 Acura Integra Type S Worth the Hype?
In conclusion, the 2025 Acura Integra Type S is an impressive return to form for the Integra nameplate. Offering VTEC-powered thrills, excellent handling, and practicality for daily driving, the Integra Type S checks all the boxes for enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a car that balances performance and practicality without sacrificing the fun factor.
While the Acura Integra Type S is not without its minor flaws — including a sometimes slow-to-respond infotainment system — it’s a highly capable and exciting car that more than makes up for these shortcomings. The Integra Type S marks the resurgence of a legend, and it’s clear that Acura has carefully crafted this car to appeal to both performance lovers and those who need a versatile, reliable vehicle for everyday use.
Whether you’re a fan of the Integra legacy or simply seeking a high-performance car with VTEC at its core, the 2025 Acura Integra Type S is a winner that deserves serious consideration.
