Acura has unveiled the Integra Type S HRC Prototype, a vehicle that signals a thrilling new direction for performance enthusiasts. Debuting at Monterey Car Week, this prototype showcases a potential line of street and track-focused performance parts from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), the engineering powerhouse behind Honda and Acura’s racing successes. This initiative aims to bring HRC’s championship-winning expertise directly to Acura owners, allowing them to enhance the performance of their own vehicles. The Integra Type S HRC Prototype builds upon the already impressive Integra Type S, pushing its capabilities even further with advanced aerodynamics, engine enhancements, and suspension upgrades, all fine-tuned with racetrack precision.
Jon Ikeda, Senior Vice President of Honda Racing Corporation USA, emphasized the core concept behind this project: “HRC performance parts is an exciting concept focused on building a stronger connection with Acura and Honda enthusiasts eager to access exclusive HRC race engineering to augment their performance driving experience.” He further highlighted the prototype’s focus on functionality, stating, “Every spec of the Acura Integra Type S Hrc Prototype screams performance. Everything is functional – if it doesn’t add performance it isn’t on the car.”
Spearheaded by HRC US in Southern California, the development of this prototype is comprehensive, targeting improvements across the driving experience. From engine and braking performance to suspension and significant weight reduction, the Integra Type S HRC Prototype demonstrates the vast potential of the Integra Type S platform for both street and racetrack environments. The public will have its first glimpse of this exciting machine at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, on Friday, August 16th.
Optimized Aerodynamics for Track Domination
The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype’s aggressive and purposeful styling, conceived at the Acura Design Studio in Los Angeles, immediately sets it apart. Drawing directly from the aerodynamic development of the Integra Type S TCX racecar, the prototype incorporates functional elements designed to maximize downforce and high-speed stability. This is crucial for track performance, where every bit of grip and control matters. Key aerodynamic enhancements include a redesigned front fascia featuring a larger front splitter and integrated cooling ducts, expanded hood vents for improved engine cooling, strategically placed side splitters to manage airflow along the vehicle’s sides, and a prominent adjustable carbon fiber rear wing mounted on lightweight aluminum uprights.
Alt text: Front quarter view of the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype showcasing its aggressive front fascia and Indy Yellow Pearl paint.
The prototype’s visual impact is amplified by its striking Indy Yellow Pearl paint, a vibrant color first introduced on the second-generation NSX supercar, paying homage to Acura’s performance heritage. Adding to its exclusive appeal are custom milled aluminum HRC badges, proudly displayed on the grille, front fenders, and decklid. These badges feature the same iconic logo seen on Honda and Acura’s championship-winning race cars in series like IndyCar, IMSA, and Formula 1, instantly communicating the prototype’s racing pedigree.
Weight Reduction Through Carbon Fiber Innovation
A significant focus in the development of the Integra Type S HRC Prototype was reducing weight to enhance overall performance. To achieve this, HRC engineers implemented extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber components. The hood and rear door panels are crafted from carbon fiber, significantly reducing mass in critical areas. Inside, aggressively bolstered one-piece Recaro bucket seats, also made from carbon fiber, replace the standard seats, offering both weight savings and superior lateral support for high-G maneuvers on the track. Further demonstrating the prototype’s track-focused intent, the rear seat has been removed and replaced with a meticulously engineered carbon fiber shelf. This shelf isn’t just for show; it’s designed to securely transport four mounted wheels and tires, essential for track days.
Alt text: Interior view of the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype highlighting the Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats and the carbon fiber shelf in place of the rear seats, designed for track day wheel transport.
Combined with an optional air conditioning delete for the most hardcore track enthusiasts, these weight-saving measures result in an impressive reduction of nearly 200 pounds compared to the standard Integra Type S. This substantial weight loss directly translates to improved acceleration, braking, and handling agility, making the prototype even more responsive and dynamic.
Enhanced Engine Performance and Track-Optimized Handling
The Integra Type S HRC Prototype doesn’t just look the part; it delivers enhanced performance under the hood and in the corners. The high-revving turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC® engine, already potent in the standard Type S, receives further upgrades to boost output, responsiveness, and cooling efficiency. These enhancements, derived from the development of the Acura Integra Type S HRC TCX race car, include a larger intercooler to reduce intake air temperatures, twin oil coolers to maintain optimal engine oil temperatures under demanding track conditions, and a specially tuned, lightweight cat-back exhaust system that not only improves exhaust flow but also adds a more aggressive soundtrack.
Alt text: Rear view of the Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype emphasizing its central triple exhaust outlets and the adjustable carbon fiber rear wing.
To optimize handling for track environments, the prototype features a lowered track-ready suspension, dropping the ride height by 15mm. This suspension system incorporates tuned coilovers for precise adjustability, an adjustable rear anti-roll bar to fine-tune handling balance, and adjustable front and rear camber plates, mirroring the setup of the Integra Type S HRC TCX race car. The prototype also sports forged lightweight 19 x 9.5-inch wheels with an increased negative offset, widening the front and rear track by 30mm. This wider stance not only enhances handling stability but also gives the car a more aggressive and planted appearance.
These performance wheels are shod with track-focused Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R ultra-high-performance tires in size 265/30ZR19. With a 60 Treadwear rating, these tires offer exceptional grip and cornering capabilities, essential for maximizing performance on the racetrack.
Braking performance is also significantly upgraded to match the prototype’s increased capabilities. Massive 15-inch two-piece front rotors, 1.4 inches larger than those on the standard Integra Type S, are paired with Brembo® 6-piston aluminum calipers for 강력한 stopping power and fade resistance. Two-piece rear rotors further reduce unsprung weight, contributing to improved suspension response. Larger ducts integrated into the front fascia are designed to channel more cooling air to the front rotors, maintaining optimal braking performance even under extreme heat generated during track use.
Chassis stiffness is enhanced by reinforcing the rear bulkhead with a robust X-Brace, finished in the same eye-catching Indy Yellow Pearl paint as the exterior. This brace also serves as an attachment point for multipoint harnesses, crucial safety equipment for track driving. Inside the cabin, the premium performance atmosphere is elevated with black Alcantara accents and color-matched yellow seatbelts, stitching, and trim, creating a cohesive and purposeful aesthetic.
HRC: A Legacy of Racing Excellence
The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype is a testament to the capabilities of Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US). HRC US leads all of Honda and Acura’s high-performance racing programs in North America, encompassing pinnacle racing series like IndyCar and IMSA sports cars, as well as commercial racing programs and contributions to Honda’s Formula One program. Notably, in 2026, HRC will become the official engine supplier to the Aston Martin Aramco F1 team, further solidifying its position at the forefront of global motorsport. With Formula 1’s growing presence in the U.S., HRC USA will play a key role in Formula One power unit development and race support starting in 2026.
Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) was initially established in Japan in 1982 as Honda’s motorcycle racing division. Over four decades, HRC has built an unparalleled legacy of championship victories in premier global racing categories, including MotoGP, Superbike, Motocross, World Trial, and the grueling Paris Dakar rally. In 2022, HRC expanded its responsibilities to include auto racing, incorporating Honda’s Formula 1 program into its portfolio.
The Acura Integra Type S HRC Prototype represents the exciting fusion of HRC’s racing expertise and Acura’s commitment to Precision Crafted Performance. For enthusiasts eager to learn more about the potential HRC performance parts and the future of Acura performance, signing up for updates is highly recommended. Interested individuals can find more information and sign up for updates by clicking here.
About Honda Racing Corporation USA
Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) boasts a rich history of creating, manufacturing, and supporting Honda Racing and Acura Motorsports customers since its inception in 1993 as Honda Performance Development (HPD). In January 2024, HPD evolved into HRC US, merging with HRC Japan to strengthen the company’s overall motorsports capabilities. From top-tier racing in INDYCAR and IMSA sports cars to commercial racing programs, HRC US spearheads all Honda and Acura high-performance racing initiatives in North America and is poised to contribute to Formula One power unit development and race support in Honda’s next F1 chapter starting in 2026.
HRC US specializes in the design and development of cutting-edge powertrain, chassis, electronics, and performance parts, as well as providing comprehensive technical and race support. The company also supplies parts and race support to Honda and Acura amateur and professional motorsports racers, continuously expanding its range of racing programs to cater to diverse racing styles, from karting to the highest echelons of professional racing. www.hondaracing-us.honda.com
About Acura
Acura is a leading automotive brand renowned for its commitment to expressive styling, innovative engineering, and engaging driving dynamics, all rooted in the brand’s Precision Crafted Performance DNA. The Acura lineup includes two sport sedans, the Integra and TLX, and three sport-utility vehicles, the RDX, MDX, and the all-electric ZDX. The ADX SUV is set to join the lineup as a new entry-level model in 2025. High-performance Type S variants further exemplify Acura’s dedication to Precision Crafted Performance. All Acura vehicles sold in America are manufactured in the U.S., using both domestic and globally sourced parts.
For more comprehensive information about Acura, please visit: https://acuranews.com/en-US.
