What the 2026 Integra Type S Gives You — and What It Trades Away Compared to the Elite A-Spec

The 2026 Acura Integra Type S is not a trim upgrade — it's a separate performance specification built on a different powertrain, a wider body, and a track-focused chassis. At 320 hp from a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, it draws a sharp line between itself and the rest of the Integra lineup. For the right driver, it's the obvious choice. For the wrong one, it can become an inconvenient daily vehicle.

These questions help you figure out which side of that line you're on before you commit.

Do You Actually Want a Manual Transmission Every Day?

The Integra Type S comes exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. There is no automatic option. The transmission features automatic rev matching, which makes downshifts cleaner — but it doesn't change the fact that every commute, every parking manoeuvre, and every traffic jam involves a clutch pedal.

If you've driven a manual daily before and enjoyed it, this is a non-issue. If your last manual was a one-time experience or a brief test drive, spend a few trips in stop-and-go traffic before deciding. The Type S's driving character is built around this transmission — separating the two isn't possible.

Can Your Driving Environment Handle the Type S's Setup?

The Type S sits 122.75 mm off the ground — 6.24 mm lower than the other Integra trims at 128.99 mm. The front track width is 1,626.2 mm and the rear is 1,614.3 mm, both wider than the standard Integra's 1,537.1 mm front and 1,566.6 mm rear. The Type S also rides on 265/30ZR19 tyres, compared to 235/40R18 on other trims.

These specs translate to a vehicle that is lower, wider, and tuned for handling precision. On smooth roads and highway driving, this setup is the point. On rough urban pavement, uneven parking structures, or steep driveways, the lower ground clearance and stiffer tyre profile become daily considerations.

Are You Comfortable with 4-Seat Capacity as a Fixed Limitation?

The Integra Type S seats four occupants — not five. The other three Integra trims (A-Spec, Elite A-Spec, Elite A-Spec MT) all seat five. This is a structural difference, not a trim preference.

If your regular passenger load is two adults, or two adults and two children, the four-seat configuration works. If you routinely need a fifth seat — for a carpool, a family of five, or regular group travel — the Type S is not the right vehicle for that use.

Do You Understand What the Type S Powertrain Requires?

The Type S runs a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 320 hp and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. It requires 93-octane premium fuel — one step above the 91-octane required by the other Integra trims. Fuel economy is rated at 11.1 L/100 km city, 8.3 L/100 km highway, and 9.9 L/100 km combined.

The Type S also does not include idle stop — a feature available on the A-Spec and Elite A-Spec trims. For buyers prioritizing urban fuel efficiency or automatic start-stop operation, these are genuine differences from the rest of the lineup.

What Features Are and Aren't Included?

The Type S has a distinct feature configuration from the rest of the Integra lineup. Some additions stand out clearly:

• Brembo front 4-piston braking system (exclusive to Type S in the Integra lineup)
• Dual-axis strut front suspension with Adaptive Damper System and track sensor
• Sport, Sport+, and Individual IDS driving modes (Comfort mode not available)
• 19" aluminum-alloy wheels
• 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system
• Wireless phone charger

Some features available on the Elite A-Spec are not present on the Type S:

• Remote engine starter: not included on Type S (available on A-Spec and Elite A-Spec)
• Wi-Fi hotspot capability and AcuraLink Connected Services: not included on Type S
• Amazon Alexa Built-in: not included on Type S
• Traffic Jam Assist: not included on Type S

The Type S trades some convenience-oriented features for performance hardware. This is a deliberate configuration, not an oversight — but it's worth knowing before you sit down at a desk.

At a Glance: Type S vs. Elite A-Spec Key Differences

Talk Through the Type S at Acura Montreal Centre in Montréal

If these questions confirmed that the Integra Type S fits your driving life — or if they raised new ones — the team at Acura Montreal Centre in Montréal can walk you through the vehicle in detail, including a test drive on the Type S's 6-speed manual. Stop in at Acura Montreal Centre in Montréal to explore the 2026 Integra lineup and compare the Type S against the Elite A-Spec trims.