Why Acura Integra Type S Earned 2026 "Editors' Choice" Award from Car and Driver Magazine

Car and Driver doesn't hand out Editors' Choice awards lightly. When they named the 2026 Acura Integra Type S to their exclusive list, they recognized something special: a sports sedan that delivers genuine driving thrills without compromise.

Performance That Justifies the Badge

The Integra Type S earns its Type S designation with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 320 horsepower. This isn't just impressive on paper. Behind the wheel, the power delivery feels immediate and eager. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes just 4.9 seconds, putting the Integra Type S in serious performance territory.

Car and Driver praised the engine's responsive character and smooth power band. There's no lag, no waiting for boost. Just instant throttle response that makes every acceleration satisfying. The available six-speed manual transmission adds another layer of engagement, with short throws and perfect rev-matching that makes you look like a better driver than you probably are.

Handling That Rewards Drivers

What truly impressed Car and Driver's editors was the chassis tuning. The Integra Type S corners with precision and composure that embarrasses more expensive sports sedans. Adaptive dampers adjust in real-time, keeping the car flat through corners while maintaining reasonable comfort on rough roads.

The limited-slip differential puts power down effectively, minimizing wheelspin and maximizing corner exit speed. Brembo brakes provide fade-resistant stopping power that matches the acceleration capability. This isn't a car that's fast in a straight line but clumsy everywhere else. It excels at actual driving.

Value That Can't Be Ignored

Here's where the Integra Type S separates itself from competitors. Car and Driver emphasized the value proposition: genuine sports sedan performance for thousands less than German rivals. A comparably equipped BMW or Audi costs significantly more while delivering similar (or sometimes inferior) performance.

The Integra Type S includes standard features that cost extra on competitors. You're getting Brembo brakes, adaptive suspension, premium audio, and advanced safety tech without checking expensive option boxes. The value becomes even more apparent when you factor in Acura's lower maintenance costs and better reliability record.

Daily Usability

Performance cars often demand sacrifices. Harsh rides. Tiny trunks. Punishing seats. The Integra Type S rejects these compromises. Car and Driver noted the comfortable seats suitable for long trips, the usable rear seat space, and the practical liftback design that swallows more cargo than traditional sport sedans.

You can drive this car every day without punishment. It won't beat you up in stop-and-go traffic or on pothole-riddled streets. When you want to enjoy driving, the performance is there. When you just need to get somewhere, it obliges without drama.

The Manual Transmission Factor

In 2026, finding a true sports sedan with a manual transmission is nearly impossible. The Integra Type S offers it, complete with rev-matching technology that smooths downshifts. Car and Driver's editors, who value driver engagement above all else, considered this a decisive factor. The manual isn't a compromise. It's the preferred choice for enthusiasts.

Ready to experience the Integra Type S that earned Car and Driver's praise? Visit Jay Wolfe Acura to test drive this award-winning sports sedan and discover why editors chose it above all competitors.