Emile Korkor, Assistant Vice President, Acura National Sales, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Good evening, and to the many of you who have traveled to be here, thank you and welcome to Los Angeles.
I've been part of the Acura brand now for over two decades, and today, I'm excited to be part of the introduction of an all-new gateway model that is true to our Precision Crafted Performance DNA in every way - an Acura Integra for the next generation.
This has already been a big year for product introductions.
In the first quarter, we unleashed the all-new 4th generation MDX which has asserted itself as our new flagship, breaking records out of the gate and continues to generate incredible demand.
Then came the return of Type S. This year we've launched not one but three new Type S performance variants. The best-performing Acura sedan we've ever made in the TLX Type S. The most powerful Acura ever, the NSX Type S.
And next month, we'll introduce the first ever application of Type S on an SUV, the MDX Type S, bringing an entirely new level of performance to the most popular model in our lineup.
We also just released a refreshed RDX, the best seller in its class since 2006, with more standard tech, an even quieter cabin and more fun-to-drive.
Now we are here today to introduce the next big moment in our exciting future:
the Integra.
Integra helped launch the sport compact scene, and we sold nearly a million Integras in the U.S. in the process.
But Integra is not only a big part of how Acura got to where we are today, it's now a key part of Acura's future. And that future begins right now.
To give you a first look at the all-new Acura Integra Prototype, ladies and gentlemen, please welcome, Vice President and Acura Brand Officer, Jon Ikeda.
Jon Ikeda, Vice President and Acura Brand Officer, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
Hello to everyone here with us in Los Angeles and to those joining online. This is a big day for Acura.
As I was preparing for this announcement, I was thinking back to 2015 when we introduced the production NSX, and formally returned to our Precision Crafted Performance DNA.
Now, in just a few short years, we've completely rebuilt Acura as the Performance
Division of Honda, going back to our roots.
Today, you're going to see the next major piece of the strategy, a new gateway model that will take the Acura brand to an even higher level with the revival of one of the most influential models, in our brand history, the Acura Integra.
And this all-new model ushers in a "new era of performance" for a new generation of customers. I've been waiting to say this for a long time the Integra is back.
And in keeping with our focus on "less talk, more drive" let's get right to it, here it is, the Acura Integra Prototype.
(Reveal)
This is an Integra for the next generation. We have a clear understanding of the formula that worked in the past, so, it's sleek and sporty like the Integras we all fell in love with.
But with this new model we really focused on styling and versatile packaging that will appeal to the next generation of customers.
With its striking five-door design, it's perfect for active lifestyles.
With its dramatically sloping roofline, this new Integra has a coupe-like presence, while maintaining the versatility of a liftback.
The all new Integra Prototype was crafted with the next iteration of Acura's signature design language, the new frameless Diamond Pentagon grille.
And also included is Acura's unique lighting signature, featured front and rear with four element Jewel Eye headlights and "Chicane" daytime running lights and brake lights.
With its great proportions and stance, and dual exhaust finishers this Integra shows its potential as a true performance five-door.
Clearly inspired by previous Integra models, this prototype features distinctive wide single piece taillights.
And just like it was back in the day, the name Integra is embossed in the front and rear fascias.
The Indy Yellow Pearl color of this prototype is borrowed from the NSX but it pays tribute to the Phoenix Yellow of the iconic third-generation Integra Type R.
And it's not just a tribute to the color, this will be the first turbocharged Integra from the factory, and it will deliver on the emotional driving fun of its predecessors.
With a turbocharged 1.5-liter VTEC engine, an available six-speed manual transmission and limited slip differential, Integra is developed with enthusiasts in mind.
We all know the trend toward SUVs and crossovers, but this model will flip the script when it arrives at Acura dealers next year priced around $30,000 attracting customers beyond just its competitive segment.
I've designed cars for over 25 years and I know that passion is important for great cars. I'm confident that the passion our team put into creating this model will make an emotional connection with our customers.
And that will make this Integra the gateway to a new era of Acura performance.
This is just the beginning. We look forward to sharing more information on Integra before its arrival at dealers next year. Thank you.
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