Will Honda management be inspired to revive this iconic nameplate?
For many Honda die-hard fans and even the average sports car lover, the return of the ‘Integra’ to the Honda line-up is much welcomed.
This rendering of a 2022 Integra has been circulating on social media and news just in that Acura (which is the luxury division of Honda and very popular in North America) recently at the eve of the Monterey Car Week announced the return of Integra for 2022.
Further details however in regards to this next-gen Integra is still nevertheless scarce thus far, with only a sole teaser image showing a glimpse of its left corner being released.
Though even through this one photo it is clear to see that this upcoming model will borrow heavily from the angular design cues of the current Acura range, with its sharp LED headlights and grille almost identical to that of the newly-launched TLX Type S sports sedan.
Enthusiasts can also breathe a sigh of relief in the knowledge that it is quite certain for the Integra name to still continue being affixed on a compact two-door coupe. That is if the skywriting silhouette of a coupe shown off during the announcement is anything to go by at least.
Acura is promising too that the Integra will carry on the ‘same fun-to-drive spirit and DNA of the original’, which will certainly be a tall order considering that its prior iterations were regarded as being among best front-wheel drive cars of all time.
Remember the launch of the Integra Type R in 2001? This Type R was powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine that was developed specifically for excellent intake and exhaust efficiency and it had a maximum power output of 220PS working with a new close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.
Powerplant and transmission were combined with a new suspension to offer extremely linear response to the drivers input.
Other features including front brakes jointly developed with Brembo, Recaro bucket front seats, and a MOMO genuine leather-covered steering wheel help round out the new Integra Type R’s excellent driving performance in such a way that it would be right at home even on the racing circuit.
The iS version was a stylish yet functional coupe, powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine with a maximum power output of 160PS, ideal for drivers desiring sporty, fun-to-drive performance.
PRESS RELEASE: Acura today announced the return of the Integra during its annual appearance at Monterey Car Week. The legendary nameplate, one of two models in the original product line-up when Acura launched on March 27, 1986, will re-join the performance brand’s product portfolio as a new compact premium entrant next year.
“The Integra is back,” said Jon Ikeda Vice President and Acura Brand Officer. “I’m thrilled to say Integra is returning to the Acura line-up with the same fun-to-drive spirit and DNA of the original, fulfilling our commitment to Precision Crafted Performance in every way – design, performance and the overall driving experience.”
More details about the new Acura Integra will be available closer to its 2022 introduction.
Research and Text by Joshua Chin
