A symbol of high-performance for more than two decades, Acura Type S performance models are recognized by driving enthusiasts seeking a more dynamic driving experience with higher power, improved handling and stronger braking.
The concept for Type S performance variants began with the 1997 NSX Type S in Japan, which led Honda R&D engineers in America to develop the AC-R, a sleek two-door coupe-based prototype capable of achieving 166 mph and 1.0g lateral acceleration on a skid pad.
Development of the Acura 3.2CL Type S, the first Type S sold in North America, quickly followed. From 2001 through 2008, Type S models played a significant role in Acura's performance lineup. Type S variants of the CL, TL and RSX delivered a more dynamic driving experience without sacrificing the creature comforts and daily drivability of core Acura models.
In 2021, Type S performance variants returned to Acura showrooms with the all-new TLX Type S, the best performing Acura sedan yet. In 2022, the 600 hp NSX Type S supercar celebrated of the final year of Acura NSX production, and the new MDX Type S became the first Acura SUV to ever wear the Type S badge. Watch Acura Type S – Origin Story Video Here.
And there is more to come. In 2024, the Acura Type S lineup will expand to also include the Integra Type S, a pinnacle representation of Precision Crafted Performance in a compact Acura sedan, and the ZDX Type S, a high-performance full-electric SUV.
2001-2003 Acura 3.2CL Type S
Type S debuted in North America with the 2001 Acura 3.2CL Type S, a high-performance coupe with a Type S-exclusive 3.2-liter VTEC® V6 engine featuring an ingenious, dual-stage induction system with a large, two-chamber intake plenum separated by an electronically actuated butterfly valve, which opened at 3,800 rpm. Producing 260 horsepower (up from the standard CL's 225 hp), CL Type S was one of the most powerful six-cylinder coupes in its class.
A performance-tuned 5-speed automatic was standard, and in its final model year the CL Type S was available with a 6-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter and multi-cone synchronizers for effortless shifting.
Aggressive 17x7-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels incorporated an outer rimless design to achieve a seamless contour from the center of the wheel all the way out to the tire for an especially sporty appearance. Large openings in the wheel ensured proper ventilation of the brakes. A sport-tuned suspension and high-performance Michelin tires improved handling.
Inside, the CL Type S featured exclusive perforated leather seats and steering wheel, metallic-faced instrument displays and unique Type S-badged leather shifter knob.
More information on the 2002 Acura 3.2CL Type S.
Acura 3.2CL Type S |
2001-2003 |
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Engine |
3.2-liter SOHC 24-valve VTEC® V6 |
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Transmission |
5-speed automatic |
2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL Type S
The first Type S sedan, the sleek Acura 3.2TL Type S, featured the same Type S exclusive 3.2-liter V6 engine and innovative dual-stage induction system that debuted on the 3.2CL Type S coupe the previous year. Producing 260 horsepower (up from the standard TL's 225 hp), TL Type S was one of the most powerful six-cylinder sedans in its class.
A performance-tuned 5-speed automatic with a manual shift function was standard, along with a sport-tuned suspension and high-performance tires on 17-inch alloy wheels.
Like the CL Type S, the TL Type S got a sporty cockpit treatment with perforated-leather sport seats, a perforated-leather steering wheel and shifter, ebony wood-patterned trim, a Type S emblem on the shift knob, and metallic-face gauges.
More information on the 2002 Acura 3.2TL Type S.
Acura 3.2TL Type S |
2002-2003 |
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Engine |
3.2-liter SOHC 24-valve VTEC® V6 |
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Transmission |
5-speed automatic |
2002-2006 Acura RSX Type S
The first Type S sport compact, the Acura RSX Type S hit the heart of the red-hot tuner market which was fueled by The Fast and the Furious movie franchise that launched in 2001. Powered by a new K-Series 2.0-liter i-VTEC® 4-cylinder with 200 horsepower (upgraded from the standard RSX's 160 hp), the liftback featured a 6-speed manual transmission exclusively.
Compared with the Acura Integra it replaced, the RSX's drag coefficient improved by 4 percent, and its rakishly angled hood, deep chin spoiler and sleek, wind-cheating lines, made RSX the most aerodynamic coupe in its class. The 2002 RSX Type S was available in exclusive colors of Premium White Pearl and Arctic Blue Pearl. Rich leather seating surfaces and a high-power Acura/Bose® audio system were standard.
In 2005, the RSX Type S received a power boost to 210 horsepower and styling changes that included a larger eye-catching rear wing and larger 17-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance Michelin tires.
The more-powerful 2005 RSX Type S used the same high-performance three rocker arm VTEC® design as the NSX to vary the lift and duration of both the intake and exhaust valves to maximize power. At lower rpm, the valves followed low lift, short duration camshaft profiles to help boost low-end torque. Above 5,800 rpm, the intake and exhaust valves were operated by high-lift, long-duration cam profiles, for maximum high-rpm horsepower.
More information on the 2002 Acura RSX Type S.
More information on the 2005 Acura RSX Type S.
Acura RSX Type S |
2002-2006 |
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(2002-2004) |
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Engine |
2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve i-VTEC® inline 4-cylinder |
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Transmission |
6-speed manual |
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(2005-2006) |
|
|
Engine |
2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve i-VTEC® inline 4-cylinder |
|
Transmission |
6-speed manual |
2007-2008 Acura TL Type S
The third-generation Acura TL sedan joined the Type S lineup in 2007, powered by a 3.5-liter V6 making 286 horsepower (upgraded from the standard TL's 3.2-liter V6 with 258 hp).
The standard transmission was an all-new 5-speed automatic transmission with Acura's Sequential SportShift system for manual control and stronger gears for increased torque capacity. A 6-speed manual transmission was also available, strengthened for increased durability with the more powerful 3.5-liter engine.
TL Type S delivered the emotional thrill of a high-performance luxury sedan without sacrificing comfort and convenience. The suspension was retuned with an emphasis on ride comfort while maintaining excellent handling with larger stabilizer bars, reduced front spring rates and retuned bushings and dampers. Upgraded 17-inch wheels with high-performance Michelin tires and 4-piston Brembo® front brakes were also standard.
It also received black-chrome exterior trim, a unique front fascia with a "splitter" leading edge, wider side sills, a rear fascia diffuser and distinctive quad exhaust.
On the inside, TL Type S featured sporty red lighting, faux carbon fiber trim and the Type S logo on the bottom steering wheel spoke and embossed on the front headrests.
More information on the 2007 Acura TL Type S.
Acura TL Type S |
2007-2008 |
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Engine |
3.5-liter SOHC 24-valve VTEC® V6 |
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Transmission |
5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual |
2021-2023 Acura TLX Type S
Previewed by the Type S Concept in 2019, Type S returned to Acura showrooms in 2021 after a 13-year hiatus with the all-new TLX Type S, the best performing Acura sedan yet. Acura engineers created an emotional and exciting premium performance sedan without sacrificing everyday usability and comfort.
Powered by an all-new Type S-exclusive 3.0-liter Turbo V6, the TLX Type S boasts 355 horsepower (SAE net @ 5,500 rpm) and 354 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net @ 1,400 – 5,000 rpm), (+83 hp from the standard TLX). A quick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, a sport tuned suspension and Brembo® front brakes are all standard.
TLX Type S was also Acura's first ever Type S with torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ ( SH-AWD®). The award-winning all-wheel drive system progressively distributes optimum torque not only between the front and rear axles, but also between the left and right rear wheels for more precise and exhilarating handling response across a wide variety of road conditions.
TLX Type S is instantly recognizable by its open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille that improves engine cooling, quad exhaust outlets, a front splitter and a rear diffuser. Its driver-focused interior features an NSX-inspired flat bottom steering wheel with the Type S logo, 16-way adjustable Milano leather seats with adjustable bolsters and Type S-embossed headrests. The TLX Type S is built in Ohio*. More information on the 2022 TLX Type S.
With the limited production 2023 TLX Type S PMC Edition, the best performing Acura sedan ever gains a healthy dose of tech, materials and craftsmanship from the NSX supercar. The fifth vehicle handcrafted by the same master technicians who built the NSX Type S at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Ohio* is offered in one of three NSX-derived premium colors – Curva Red, 130R White and Long Beach Blue.
More information on the 2023 TLX Type S PMC Edition.
*using domestic and globally-sourced parts.
Acura TLX Type S |
2021-2023 |
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Engine |
3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 |
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Transmission |
10-speed automatic |
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Drivetrain |
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) |
2022 Acura NSX Type S
In celebration of the final year of Acura NSX production, a limited run of 350 NSX Type S models were produced at Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio. Delivering quicker acceleration, sharper cornering and a more emotional driving experience than any road-going NSX ever, the 2022 NSX Type S raised the already impressive performance of the cutting-edge electrified supercar.
With a combination of a high-output twin-turbo V6 and the Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) three-motor hybrid system, the second-generation NSX drivetrain was groundbreaking when the supercar launched in 2016. Enhanced in the NSX Type S, it produced 600 combined horsepower and 492 lb.-ft. of torque, creating the most powerful Acura ever.
Hand-built in a special facility at the Anna Engine Plant in Ohio, the supercar's exclusive twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter 75-degree V6 engine received new fuel injectors, intercoolers and turbochargers shared with the NSX GT3 Evo. The result was an increase in engine output of 20 hp and 37 lb.-ft. of torque over the standard NSX engine.
Acura engineers optimized the chassis, suspension and response of the NSX Type S, increasing the supercar's performance and emotional connection with its driver. This resulted in a unique supercar experience combining world-class handling and thrust with an impassioned driving experience and daily livability.
Performance forged alloy split-five spoke wheels and bespoke Pirelli P-Zero tires improved the supercar's handling and gave it an especially aggressive stance. Six-piston front and four-piston rear Brembo® brakes with red finished calipers were standard. A lightweight carbon fiber roof was also standard to lower the supercar's center of gravity.
An available Lightweight Package reduced the supercar's curb weight by 57.8 pounds (26.2 kg). It included a high-gloss carbon fiber engine cover, carbon ceramic brakes, carbon fiber accents on the steering wheel and carbon fiber instrument cluster hood.
Inside, NSX Type S featured an Alcantara® headliner, an embroidered Type S logo on the glove compartment and embossed NSX logos on the headrests. The NSX Type S logo was also found on the key fob.
More information on the 2022 NSX Type S.
2022 Acura NSX Type S |
2022 |
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Engine |
3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 hybrid powertrain |
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Rear Direct Drive Motor |
Water-Cooled Motor/Generator |
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Front Twin Motor Unit (TMU) |
Twin Traction Motor |
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Transmission |
9-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) |
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Drivetrain |
Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) |
2022-2023 Acura MDX Type S
A high-performance variant of Acura's flagship, the MDX Type S is the first Acura SUV to wear the Type S badge and is the most powerful, best handling and most lavishly equipped Acura SUV ever.
The three-row MDX Type S is powered by Acura's Type S-exclusive 3.0-liter Turbo V6 boasting 355-horsepower (SAE net @ 5,500 rpm) and 354-lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net @ 1,400 – 5,000 rpm) (+65 hp from the standard MDX). A quick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, torque vectoring SH-AWD®, a sport tuned suspension and Brembo® front brakes are all standard.
MDX Type S also maximizes the potential of its performance-tuned chassis and double-wishbone front suspension with the first air-suspension system ever used on an Acura vehicle. This, combined with the Acura Adaptive Damper System, which has been retuned for even better performance, gives MDX Type S razor sharp handling, while still delivering a comfortable ride.
Numerous signature features distinguish the exterior design of the MDX Type S performance variant, including a new front fascia with a more aggressive front spoiler, functional side air inlets and an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille that increases air flow to the engine bay. Blackout trim and 21-inch wheels with Acura's first use of self-sealing tires also are standard.
In the rear, MDX Type S features a more aggressively styled fascia with four large round exhaust outlets. As with TLX Type S, MDX Type S is available in an eye-catching and Type S-exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl paint. MDX Type S with Advance Package adds gloss black wheel arch and lower body trim for an even more premium appearance.
Inside MDX Type S gets Milano-leather seats, a racing-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel with the Type S badge, contrast stitching on the dash, doors, and lower instrument panel, metal sport pedals and a metal-plated glove box handle. MDX Type S with Advance Package features Acura's first massaging front seats and a 25-speaker ELS STUDIO 3D® Signature Edition audio system, which takes the auditory experience to unprecedented heights.
The MDX Type S delivers an unmatched combination of thrilling dynamics and premium features without compromising the family-friendly accommodations that have made MDX the best-selling luxury three-row SUV since 2001. The MDX Type S is built in Ohio*.
More information on the 2022 MDX Type S.
*using domestic and globally-sourced parts.
Acura MDX Type S |
2022-2023 |
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Engine |
3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 |
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Transmission |
10-speed automatic |
|
Drivetrain |
Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®) |
2024 Acura Integra Type S
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S is the most powerful, best performing Integra ever, delivering a new interpretation of ultimate street performance for a new generation of enthusiast drivers.
At the heart of the Integra Type S is a high-revving DOHC turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC® engine producing a 320 horsepower (SAE net @ 6,500 rpm) and 310 lb.-ft. of torque (SAE net @ 2,600 to 4,000 rpm) – an increase of 120 hp and 118 lb.-ft. over the standard Integra. The Integra Type S has both class-leading horsepower and a class-leading power-to-weight ratio of just 10.1 pounds per horsepower.
A new high-flow exhaust system, exclusive to the Integra Type S, unleashes the full potential of the award-winning 2.0-liter turbocharged (K20C1) engine. In combination with software tuning, it gives the 4-cylinder engine its highest-ever horsepower rating in North America, and a class-leading specific output of 160 hp/liter.
Integra Type S features the only manual transmission in its class, a precise, short-throw 6-speed with an automatic rev-matching system for an intimate and rewarding connection with the driver. A standard helical-type limited-slip differential (LSD) puts the engine's substantial power to the pavement effectively.
The new Integra Type S is substantially wider (2.8-inches) than the standard Integra, with boldly flared wide body fenders and larger 19-inch wheels and 265/30 R19 tires for a more muscular stance and planted road presence. Distinct from every angle, Integra Type S is also the only vehicle in the premium performance compact segment to offer a flexible 5-door liftback design.
For ultimate road holding and high-speed stability, Integra Type S features an innovative dual-axis front suspension design and significantly wider front and rear tracks than the standard Integra.
Tuned exclusively for the Integra Type S is a standard Adaptive Damper System (ADS). Controlled through the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS), with distinct damping characteristics in Comfort, Sport and Sport+ driving modes. The specially tuned ADS provides precise control of ride and handling with optimized damping curves to suit driving conditions.
An upgraded braking system with massive two-piece front rotors and Brembo® 4-piston monobloc aluminum calipers gives the Integra Type S exceptional stopping performance. Four driving modes, including a Sport+ and an Individual mode, enable drivers to truly customize the driving experience.
The driver-focused cabin of the Integra Type S features four-position seating, premium materials and exclusive Type S high-performance details. Heated front Sport seats with perforated Ultrasuede® inserts and firmer seat cushions better hold the body during high-G cornering. Perforated leather with colored stitching covers the steering wheel and the Type S-specific shifter knob, which is dark anodized and topped with a racy red shift pattern.
For a high level of everyday comfort and refinement, the high-performance Integra Type S also features class-leading standard technology, including a 10.2-inch Acura Precision Cockpit™ Driver Information Interface, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and a 16-speaker 530-watt ELS STUDIO 3D® premium audio system.
More information on the Integra Type S.
Acura Integra Type S |
2024 |
|
Engine |
2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve i-VTEC® inline 4-cylinder |
|
Transmission |
6-speed manual |
Acura ZDX Type S
Acura's unyielding commitment to delivering on its Precision Crafted Performance brand promise will continue in the electrified future, exemplified by Type S models that put the driver experience first. Demonstrating that commitment, Acura will launch its first full-electric SUV, the all-new Acura ZDX, in 2024 with a high-performance Type S variant. The Acura ZDX Type S will be the most powerful and quickest accelerating vehicle in the Acura lineup.
The dynamically styled SUV was designed at the Acura Design studio in Los Angeles, featuring many of the design themes previewed with the Acura Precision EV Concept.
More information on the Acura ZDX.
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