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Audi RS 5 Competition Coupe Review

by | Dec 13, 2023 | 0 comments

Audi RS 5 Competition Coupe Review

 A package-price reduction with added standard equipment makes the 2024 Audi RS 5 Competition a near-value statement 

The Ascari Blue color of the RS 5

The 444-hp 2024 Audi RS 5 Competition Coupe starts at $80,790, which is $6,525 less than in 2023.  (Photography by Audi or as credited)

Table of Contents

New for the 2024 RS 5
RS 5 Competition Package
Pricing
RS 5 Performance
Competition Ride and Handling
Interior Function
Why Buy the 2024 Audi RS 5 Competition?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

There is good news for the 2024 Audi RS 5 Competition Coupe and Sportback models. First, the bad news: the base price for the 2024 model is up a trifling $700, now starting at $80,790. The good news is an overall price reduction for the Competition Package saved $6,525.

An Audi RS 5 Competition coupe that cost $100,585 in 2023 is now $94,040, with the same five options and packages. In 2023, the RS 5 Competition package cost $16,100. For 2024, the package is $10,300. The main deletion from the package is the front ceramic brakes. The 15.7-inch front ceramic brakes save weight and improve brake disc cooling for on-track performance. The default choice for 2024 are 14.8-inch steel rotors. Both rotors are ventilated with six-piston fixed calipers. Steel rear disc brakes are unchanged with 13-inch ventilated rotors.

There were availability issues with the carbon fiber brakes, Audi says, and made this decision: “Rather than allow a customer to order the carbon brakes and us not be able to build the car immediately, keeping a customer waiting, we decided to proactively remove the option for this model year. As supplier availability issues get resolved, we may re-evaluate this,” a spokesman wrote in an email.

Trimming the cost of the Competition package and adding a lot of new standard equipment makes the RS 5 Competition more of a value tease, and some of its new standard elements are optional in the competition.

The Competition

Audi RS5 Coupe prime competitors include:

505-hp Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, base price $83,365, includes $500 paint option.

503-hp BMW M4 Competition xDrive Coupe, base price $91,245 with 3 driving-assist technologies.

503 hp Mercedes-AMG C63 S (2023), $94,975 with six options comparable to RS 5 tester.

472-hp Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing, $73,770.

565-hp Nissan GT-R, $123,000

*Suggested retail pricing includes the freight charge.

The front seat area with alcantara upholstery and carbon fiber trim accents

The Competition package adds Pearl Nappa and Dinamica upholstery. Front sport seats have power bolster and seat-bottom adjustment.

New for 2024?

There are no exterior or powertrain changes for the 2024 RS 5 lineup, just the following features now as standard equipment:

  • Adaptive cruise control (ACC);
  • Audi active lane assist;
  • Parking system-plus;
  • Heated steering wheel with Hands on Detection (HoD);
  • Remote engine start via myAudi app.
  • The Navigation package now adds traffic sign recognition, activating Predictive adaptive cruise control (pACC).
  • All RS 5 models have a Navigation package ($1,450) that now includes a six-month trial subscription to Audi Connect PLUS with the Audi app store.
  • Progressive Red metallic paint replaces Tango Red metallic.
A cool "runway" Sport mode to the gauge array.

A “Runway” mode is exclusive to the RS Virtual Cockpit layout. (Mark Maynard)

What’s in the $10,300 Competition Package?

The 2024 Audi RS 5 Competition package, $10,300, includes:

  • 20-inch 5-Y-spoke design milled-cut wheels in bi-color phantom black finish;
  • Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires;
  • 180 mph top track speed;
  • Sport direct steering;
  • Coil-over suspension system with front and rear sport sway bars;
  • RS Sport exhaust system with matte black tailpipes;
  • Red brake calipers;
  • RS carbon matte inlays;
  • Matte carbon front splitter, rear diffuser, and exterior mirror housings;
  • High-gloss black exterior trim, black Audi rings and badges;
  • Pearl Nappa and Dinamica seat upholstery with piano black front seat side trim
  • Alcantara covered steering wheel, shift lever, and center console;
  • Seatbelts with red edging and RS logo floor mats with red edging.

2024 Audi RS 5 Pricing

The U.S. was first introduced to the midsize RS 5 for the 2013 model year. The second-gen RS 5 came out for 2018, followed in 2021 with a significant refresh. The RS 5 Competition package was added for 2023.

Sold in two-door Coupe and five-door Sportback models, both RS 5 variants have the same powertrain. RS 5 Competition Coupe pricing starts at $80,790 vs. $79,995 for the Sportback; pricing includes the $1,095 freight charge from Ingolstadt, Germany.

Of the eight paint colors, only Nardo Gray is a no-cost choice. Six hues are a $595 upgrade, including the tester’s Ascari Blue metallic. Named for Spain’s Circuito Ascari track, the deep sky blue hue has sublet flecks of purple. Sebring Black Crystal, $1,095, is exclusive to the Competition package.

Find current Audi RS 5 pricing here. And look for special offers here.

The engine with carbon fiber dress up kit

With 444 twin-turbocharged and intercooled horsepower, the 2.9-liter is Audi’s most potent V-6 in the A5 lineup. (Mark Maynard)

Competition Performance

With 444 twin-turbocharged and intercooled horsepower, the 2.9-liter is Audi’s most potent V-6 in the A5 lineup. With peak torque holding steady from 2,000-5,000 rpm, there is no delay in the spooling of power, though the standard drive mode is turned for fuel economy. Audi cites 0-60 acceleration in 3.7 seconds for the Coupe and 3.8 seconds for the Sportback. With all-wheel drive, that’s a righteous launch for a curb weight of 3,990 pounds, or around 4,300 pounds with driver and a friend.

The RS 5 engine has a determined engine note that gets better with a heavier foot. Reduced insulation between the engine compartment and interior gives a grand exhaust recital. Press the steering wheel button for RS mode and let the howling begin. The eight-speed feeds shifts with rapid-fire precision, with a lovely crackle and snort on downshifts.

Competition models boost maximum top track speed to 180 mph, up 25 mph from the non-Comp RS 5. Trimming the soundproofing also saved nearly 18 pounds, Audi says.

Fuel economy ratings of 18 mpg city, 26 highway, and 21 mpg combined on the recommended premium fuel are reasonable, especially with the 15.3-gallon tank. During my week of testing, my around-town average ranged between 14 and 18 mpg; on highway runs, it clicked along at 22.4 mpg.

Denting my mileage was liberal use of Sport mode. It’s just the way to go with this powertrain. And I so enjoy how Audi provides easy Sport-mode access with just a slap of the shifter down for Sport and another pull for standard Drive mode.

Driver Assistance

On the daily commute, the Comfort mode suspension is forgiving, though still taut. Crowded urban driving is helped by the RS driver assistance package, which is $3,000. The active lane assist gives good centering, but the reaction is skitzy in cornering, likely due to controlling the very wide Pirelli P Zero motorsport tires. And I’d also add the Side Assist package, $500, which includes matte aluminum side mirror caps.

RS 5 Competition Ride and Handling

With its slightly lower roofline, the Audi RS 5 Coupe might be more track competitive than the slightly taller and heavier Sportback on a longer wheelbase (111.3 vs. 108.9). However, the Sportback has larger cargo-trunk capacity (21.3 vs. 10.9 cu.ft.) and easier access to the back seats, with 2.4 inches more legroom.

Acceleration to 60 mph for both trim levels is a bellowing 3.8 seconds in the Sportback and 3.7 in the coupe.

Street or track, the RS 5 steers with planted precision; the steering weight is light but responsive with minimal input. The Sport Direct Steering in the Competition package has a quicker ratio of 13.1:1 vs. for the standard 15.9:1 box.

For added handling control, Audi includes a set of tools to manually lower the front and rear spring height by 10mm; that’s an overall ride height 20mm lower than the regular RS 5.

The stock Pirelli P Zero Corsa motorsport tires have “racing type compounds,” earning them a sticky treadwear rating (UTQG) of 80 with the highest AA traction rating. The compounding is rubber cement for traction, but many runs on a hot track day event would likely scrub tread to the wear bars; replacements will run around $425 each, or $469. At the Audi dealer, installing four tires would cost around $1,726, not including sales tax.

The driver area of the audi RS 5

Alcantara upholstery with Crescendo Red stitching dresses up the three-spoke heated steering wheel, shift lever, and center console.

RS 5 Interior Function

Audi interiors are handsome and refined. The Competition package amps visual energy with Pearl Nappa and Dinamica front-seat upholstery; Piano Black side-seat trim replaces the standard Fine Nappa leather seats. Matte carbon inlays reinforce a performance focus. Alcantara faux suede with crescendo red stitching dresses up the three-spoke heated steering wheel, shift lever, and center console. Safety belts and floor mats also are edged in red.

The midsize cabin proportions of the RS 5 are a comfort fit. The ride height accommodates without a drop-and-twist sequence into the seat. Even the seat bolsters’ side and bottom are unrestrictive, but they can be snugged for control in cornering switchbacks.

Cabin width allows front shoulder room of 55.3 inches vs. 55.7 in the Sportback. The broad front seat area allows enough instrument panel width to include the necessities: a wireless charging pad, cup holders, and easy access to cabin controls. However, engagement of the driver-assist function is awkwardly positioned on the end of the hard-to-see cruise-control stalk.

Headroom of 37.4 inches with the moonroof will fit tall drivers without looking through the windshield header. However, that head space might be tight when wearing a helmet.

Rear legroom is snug at 32.7 inches, but kids won’t notice, and adults will gladly pull up their knees.

A rear three quarter view

The RS 5 Competition package adds 20-inch milled-cut wheels in a bi-color phantom black finish, Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, and a carbon trunk-lid spoiler.

Why Buy the 2024 Audi RS 5 Competition?

Some motorists will spend $85,000 for a loaded pickup — before adding accessories, special paint, or tooled leather. And then their truck might be used to haul soil from the home improvement center, the kid’s gear to college, or a Christmas tree. It doesn’t matter, it is a personal choice.

The Audi RS 5 might be a little more subtle than its competitors in its display of supersport engineering. But when paying $100,000 for the RS 5, that driver will feel and hear the engineering that makes their car special. He or she will have no regrets . . . until the redesigned 2025 Audi RS 5 coupe debuts.

2024 Audi RS 5 Competition Specifications

Body style: Midsize 2-door 4-seat 2+2 all-wheel-drive Coupe or Sportback

Engine: 444-hp, twin turbocharged and intercooled 2.9-liter V-6; 442 lb.-ft. torque from 2,000-5,000 rpm

Maximum turbo boost: 21 psi

Transmission: 8-speed Tiptronic automatic

Fuel economy: 18/26/21 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium fuel

0-60 mph acceleration: 3.7 seconds

Top track speed: 155 mph

Drag coefficient: 0.32

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 15.3 gallons

Trunk space: 10.9 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 37.4/41.3 inches

Rear head/leg room: 36.1/32.7 inches

Length/wheelbase: 185.9/108.9 inches

Curb weight: 3,990 pounds

Turning circle: 38.4 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Advanced key for lock-unlock and push-button ignition, Audi virtual cockpit (with appearance modes of Sport and S Performance), electric parking brake, rearview camera, Fine Nappa leather upholstery, honeycomb stitched S sport seats with RS embossing, RS carbon inlays, power side bolsters, and massage function, power sunroof, Bang & Olufsen audio system with 3D sound, Matrix-design LED headlights with Audi laser light, LED interior lighting;

Safety features include: 8 air bags, stability control with sport mode, front and rear parking sensors, lane-departure warning;

Driver assistance features include: Audi Pre-sense basic (preventative occupant protection; Audi Pre-sence City with forward collision warning and avoidance assistance;

SUSPENSION COMPONENTS

Steering: Electromechanical progressive system

Suspension: RS sport front and rear

Brakes: 4-wheel steel discs, 14.8-inch rotors front, 13-inch rear;

Tires-Wheels: 20-inch 5-Y spoke design forged wheels in bi-color finish; Pirelli P zero Corsa motorsport tires

PRICING

Base RS 5 Competition Coupe price: $80,790, including $1,095 freight charge; price as tested $94,040

Options on test vehicle:

  • Ascari Blue metallic paint $595;
  • RS driver assistance package, $1,500, adds head-up display, Park assist (parking entry functionality), top view camera system, traffic sign recognition;
  • Navigation package with side assist $1,500;
  • Competition package with standard brakes, $10,300.

Where assembled: Ingolstadt, Germany

Warranty: 4-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper with roadside assistance

Acura Integra Type S Review

by | Oct 26, 2023 | 0 comments

Acura Integra Type S Review

The race-engineered 2024 Acura Integra Type S is a variant of the Honda Civic Type S, but there are notable separators, including body styles and horsepower

An Apex Blue Acura Integra Type S with an ocean mural in the background

The Acura Integra had a complete redesign for 2022, and the Integra Type S was added for 2023. There are no changes for the 2024 Type S. (Photos by Mark Maynard or as credited)

Table of Contents

The Integra Legacy
Type S Pricing
Type S vs. Type R
Powertrain
Ride and Handling
Safety Features
Why Buy the 2024 Acura Integra Type S?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

While tooling about in the 2024 Acura Integra Type S, I successfully debunked the dad adage that a manual-transmission car will get better fuel economy than one with an automatic. The best I could muster in the test car was a combined 21.4 mpg — and that was hard-earned with mostly careful acceleration. EPA fuel economy estimates are 21 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 mpg combined. (While testing the Honda Civic Type R stablemate, I reached a highway mileage reading of 26.8 mpg.)

I’m not typically reserved while testing a hot compact with a slick six-speed, but during my test week, premium fuel was $6 a gallon, and it doesn’t take long to burn through the 12.4-gallon tank. The highest octane available is recommended for max performance from the turbocharged 320-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

Of course, I would not cheap out on the fuel grade for the Integra Type S. It deserves the best. And it is just too enjoyable to grab it by the scruff of the neck and shake it out.

This five-door, four-seat wily rascal has two levels of performance. The first is of the type that even a mother, or the dedicated hang-wringer in the relationship, would give the nod of approval. The sport bucket seats have an ominous appearance, but they are surprisingly comfortable while being secure support when driving enthusiastically. Get hard on the gas, and the 2.0-liter breathes with machined precision, with just enough crackle and rasp through the triple-tip exhaust outlets. And look at the open cargo space of this compact-class liftback.

The Type S steering wheel and driver area

The driver area is designed for hands-on control.

An Engineering Masterwork

The second level of Type S go-power can get blistering through a road course or out on your favorite run where the wild things are. Its wide, 19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires are loathe to squeal in pain when pushed hard. And the tread width is essential for stability in a high-power front-drive sports car.

And just look at its bank of safety features and technologies. Integrating race-engineered performance with a powerhouse of electronic driver-assistance functions is an engineering marvel — none of which gets in the way of a good time. (Find more safety technologies in the specs chart at the end of this article.)

The six-speed is keenly precise with electronic rev-matching downshifts. The rev-match can be automatically engaged or canceled. The electronic downshifts can be confusing for those who know how to manually heel-toe downshift. However, I got accustomed to the rev shifts around town and liked the reminder that soon I would be back in the outback for the unfettered pleasure of manual downshifts.

The Type S front seats in Orchid with black microsuede trim

The Type S Orchid interior has baseball stitching and is trimmed in perforated black microsuede.

The Acura Integra Legacy

The Acura Integra had a complete redesign for 2022, and the Integra Type S was added for 2023. The Type S is now in its fifth generation, including the first-gen car for Japan.

The legacy began in North America with the second-generation 1992-93 Integra GS-R. It was followed by the 1997-2001 Integra Type R, then the 2005-06 RSX Type S. The early performance models were coupes, and the 2023 model is the first five-door body style.

Sport Compact Competition

This segment of reasonably priced, high-performance compacts is a storied gathering that includes the Hyundai Elantra N, Subaru WRX, Toyota GR Corolla, VW Golf R, and the Civic Type R.

The Elantra N, Civic Type R, and Acura Integra Type S are front-wheel drive, while the other competing models have all-wheel drive. Some are available with an automatic transmission, but Acura preserves the integrity of hot-shoe driving with only a six-speed manual for the Integra Type S.

It is the Acura-Honda skill at race-spec engineering that transforms a premium sport compact sedan into a purpose-engineered track athlete.

2024 Acura Legacy Type S Pricing

The Acura Integra Type S is a one-spec choice for engine, manual transmission, and equipment. Manufacturer pricing for the Integra Type S starts at $51,995, including the $1,195 freight charge from Marysville, Ohio. The Apex Blue tester came to $55,971, which includes the pearl paint for $600, the carbon fiber tailgate spoiler ($950), premium carpeted floor mats ($240), and the very attractive 19-inch copper alloy wheels for a significant bump of $2,186.

Unique Type S interior features include a serial-number plate, high-bolstered front sport seats in red-and-black microsuede fabric with double red stitching, red floor mats, red ambient LED interior lighting, metal-trimmed sport pedals, aluminum shift knob, red illuminated front door panels.

On the outside, look for the Brembo four-piston aluminum front brake calipers, 19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, gloss black side sills and wing spoiler, center-mounted, and the car’s signature triple outlet exhaust.

There is one no-cost paint color of Lunar Silver Metallic and but six optional colors for $600 each: Apex Blue Pearl, Liquid Carbon Metallic, Majestic Black Pearl, Performance Red Pearl, Tiger Eye Pearl (gold), and Platinum White Pearl.

More Type S features are listed below in the specifications chart.

Finding a new Acura Integra Type S isn’t overly difficult, compared with the outrageous dealer markups for the Civic Type R and its limited availability.

For current Acura pricing check here.  For Acura’s special offers check here.

A front door panel in the Type S shows the bottle holder and some usable storage

Usable front door-panel storage.

Type S vs. Type R

The Integra Type S is a variant of the Honda Civic Type R, but there are notable separators, including body styles. The Integra Type S is the five-door liftback version of the Civic, while the Type R is a four-door sedan. Both have a four-seat 2-plus-2 cabin.

An Acura spokesman said both cars were developed by wholly different teams, with unique buyer and performance targets.

Credentials for the Integra Type S begin with its development by the same team that created the fifth-gen Integra. Led by chief engineer Yoshiaki Akimoto, his previous projects include the second-gen Integra GS-R motor, Honda’s first four-cylinder with VTEC; the S2000 AP1 motor; and Honda’s 2005 F1 engine program.

While both sport compacts share the basic 2.0-liter powertrain, the Integra gets a 5-hp boost. Both, however, have the same torque rating of 310 lb.-ft. from 2,600 to 4,000 rpm. Acura says the Integra Type S has a noticeably different throttle map than the Type R, specifically at half throttle, whereas Integra offers significantly more torque, the spokesman explained.

For the $7,105 price difference for the Integra, it adds such convenience extras as:

Sound deadening is removed for Type R (vs. Civic Touring), whereas Integra Type S maintains the same level of sound isolation as the standard Integra;

Added interior features include:

  • Heated front seats;
  • Power driver seat;
  • ELS 3D Studio Audio;
  • Head Up Display.
The 10.7 inch wide front tire tread

A wide footprint for full contact acceleration.

Integra Type S Assets

  • Vented aluminum hood;
  • A third interior color choice of Orchid (cream) and black is in addition to black, and black and red.
  • A much more compliant suspension tune. The most aggressive mode for Type S (Sport-plus) is comparable to the middle mode (Sport) in the Type R. Type S Sport mode is comparable to the Honda’s Comfort mode. Even in similar settings, the damping profile is quite different (street vs. track focus), the spokesman said;
  • Unique Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tire developed specifically for the Integra Type S. The tread pattern and compound are distinct from the Type R. No CUP2 is offered for Type S.
  • The 19-inch Integra Type S wheel is actually lighter than the Civic Type R wheel.
  • Integra Type S curb weight is just 31 pounds heavier at 3,219 pounds;

Type S Style

The liftback body style gives the Integra Type S a hunky stance with a “flares and chairs” treatment. The Type S is 2.8 inches wider and 0.2-inch longer than the standard Acura Integra. The front track is 3.5 inches wider (to accommodate the wide Michelins), and the rear track is 1.9 inches wider.

The big Acura grille has enhanced engine and brake cooling with a more open diamond pattern (boosting airflow by 170 percent, Acura says). The vented aluminum hood channels air pulled in at the grille to flow up and over the windshield. Large Godfather-like air intakes left and right in the lower front fascia channel airflow through three canards in the inner fender to the big Brembo discs. The smooth rear fascia is designed as a diffuser to channel air and reduce lift.

A view of the engine with a matted red cover over the injectors

A matte red engine cover. (It is in memory of the second-gen Integra Type R.)

Integra Type S Powertrain

The K20C four-cylinder engine is the stuff of dreams for Acura-Honda disciples. In the Type S, the turbocharged and direct-injected VTEC 2.0-liter 4-cylinder has 320 hp, five more than the Civic Type R.

There is an enjoyable rise and fall to the revs to neatly stitch a gear. With the engine’s wide spread of peak torque, shifts do not have to be rushed.

Ease into first gear, roll on power to second, and get ready for liftoff as the torque begins to rush at about 2,400 rpm. Powering through a second-gear turn at 4,000 rpm is inspiring as I lift and slot the shifter for third, then roll on the power — and smile at the reassuring pushback in the seat. That’s when these sport seats are in their element.

And that is also when the 19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires (265/30) are in their playground. These 10.7-inch-wide rollers bring an attack attitude to performance driving.

The tires have an asymmetric tread pattern and a treadwear rating (UTQG, or Uniform Tire Quality Grade)
of 300, which is sticky but not as soft as a racing tire. Acura advises that these “unique high-performance tires” are not designed for winter driving and “will wear more rapidly than normal passenger car tires.”

Replacing a tire will run about $350 — and do not cheap out when it’s time for replacements or risk a compromise to handling performance.

The back end showing the three exhaust tips.

The lower fascia is a diffuser to channel airflow.

Type S Ride and Handling

Acura has mercifully tempered the stiffness of the ride with an adaptive damper system. It takes away the daily bump and grind yet immediately stiffens under pressure.

There also is more soundproofing, but the ride is still a whirlwind at highway speeds. The Acura ELS Studio audio system (unique from the Type R) has 16 speakers, but even this system with 530 watts can’t tame the noise. The ride around town is grainy, which seems contrary to the fairly soft Michelin tires.

The 12-way power driver seat is a major improvement over the Civic’s sport seat. And both front seats seem to have less restrictive shoulder and thigh bolsters.

A consideration is the awkwardly wide 40-foot turning circle. And care must be taken to guard the low front splitter from scraping on driveway entries and road irregularities.

The 2-plus-2 back seat in the Integra Type S

The 2+2 back seat space has snug legroom of 37.4 inches.

Integra Safety Features

Type S safety features include 10 air bags and a complete set of driving-assist technologies (listed below in the specs box). Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assist felt a little skitzy and insistent at the steering wheel. Lane-centering, however, was accurate and reassuring in heavy traffic.

One of my most appreciated technologies is the Traffic Sign Recognition system. It is vital to know the speed limits in this speed-capable Type S.

Driving-Assistance Technologies

Layered into the safety electronics of all Acura Integras are:

Collision Mitigation Braking; Road Departure Mitigation; Adaptive Cruise Control; Lane Keeping Assist; Forward Collision Warning; Lane Departure Warning; Traffic Sign Recognition System; Auto High-Beam Headlights; Driver Attention Monitor; Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor;

Cargo space showing two bags of garden soil.

Functional cargo space for weekend tasks or gear for the autocross.

Chassis Components

Suspension: Adaptive damper system; dual-axis MacPherson front struts, rear multi-link; stabilizer bars front (tubular) and rear (solid);

Steering: Dual-pinion, variable-ratio electric power steering; 2.1 turns lock to lock;

Brakes: Power-assisted and ventilated 2-piece front discs, solid rear; 13.8-inch rotors front, 12 inches rear; Brembo 4-piston aluminum front calipers;

Tires-Wheels: 19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (265/30); 19-inch matte black alloy wheels; tire-repair kit.

A front end close up to show the Large air intakes aid aerodynamics by channeling air through three canards to the inner fender.

Large air intakes aid aerodynamics by channeling air through three canards to the inner fender.

Why Buy the 2024 Acura Integra Type S?

There are decades of Honda race-engineering woven into the character of the Type S, which is a badge of honor to those who know. But it comes at a significant price. I did not see value in the $950 carbon fiber tailgate spoiler or the copper alloy wheels ($2,186), saving $3,136. And there is only one no-cost paint color of Lunar Silver Metallic, so most buyers will likely choose one of the other six $600 paint colors.

Don’t waste your money if you don’t value the mechanics of driving. It’s the rev of the engine, the machined smoothness of the manual transmission, and how the suspension loads and unloads as the driver navigates a winding road. It’s a delicious sensation, too good not to be repeated.

Compared with the Honda Civic Type R, the Integra Type S is the car for grown-ups. The Type S is a little more compliant and a little more comfortable, though I wouldn’t want to commute long distances in either. But the driving rush felt the same to me.

With my recent CTR test, I couldn’t sense that much difference between the two. My choice would be the Type S. Its cargo space makes it a little more of a dual-use sports car, and mom or the significant other would undoubtedly approve.

2024 Acura Integra Type S Specifications

Body style: compact, front-wheel-drive 5-door, 4-seat high-performance sedan

Engine: 320-hp, turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter 4-cylinder; 310 lb.-ft. torque from 2,600-4,000 rpm

Transmission: 6-speed manual with rev-matching downshifts

Fuel economy: 21/28/24 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium fuel recommended

0-60 mph acceleration: 5.1 seconds (per zeroto60times.com)

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 12.4 gallons

Cargo space: 24.3 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.6/42.3 inches

Rear head/leg room: 36.4/37.4 inches

Length/wheelbase: 186/107.7 inches

Height/width: 55.4/74.8 inches

Curb weight: 3,219 pounds

Turning circle: 39.7 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Smartkey entry with push-button start, multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, 12-way power front seats with lumbar, 10.2-inch driver info screen, 12-speaker Bose sound System with subwoofer, 9-inch color touchscreen (with volume knob, customizable feature settings and smart shortcuts), electric parking brake, Bluetooth phone and audio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 2.5-amp USB smartphone-audio port (front), 2.5-amp USB charging port, 12-volt power outlet (front), wireless charging pad, sliding sun visors, LED map lights, cargo area cover;

Type S features, interior: Type S sport-appearance package, serial-number plate, high-bolstered front sport seats with black or Orchid microsuede fabric, black floor mats, ambient LED interior lighting, leather-wrapped steering wheel, metal-trimmed sport pedals, leather-wrapped shift knob, illuminated front door panels, active sound control;

Type S Exterior: Brembo 4-piston aluminum front brake calipers, 19-inch matte black alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, aluminum hood, Type S badges front and rear, gloss black side sills, gloss black wing spoiler, center-mounted, triple outlet exhaust with active exhaust valve, gloss black side mirrors with LED turn signals;

Safety features include: 10 air bags, stability and traction controls, brake distribution, brake assist, and hill-start assist

Driving-Assist Technologies

Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation; Adaptive Cruise Control;
Lane Keeping Assist; Forward Collision Warning; Lane Departure Warning;
Traffic Sign Recognition System; Auto High-Beam Headlights; Driver Attention Monitor; Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor;

PRICING

Base Type S price: $51,995, including $1,195 freight charge; price as tested $55,971

Options on test vehicle: Apex Blue Pearl paint $600; carbon fiber tailgate spoiler $950; premium carpet floor mats $240; 19-inch copper alloy wheels $2,186

Where assembled: Marysville, Ohio

Warranty: 4-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper; 6-years/70,000-miles powertrain

Acura MDX Type S Review

by | Sep 25, 2023 | 0 comments

Acura MDX Type S Review

As Acura’s flagship, the 2024 MDX Type S is race-engineered for high performance with standard Super Handling all-wheel drive

The 2024 Acura MDX Type S with a marina background

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S is sold in two trim levels, starting at $69,345 and $74,695 for the 2023 Acura MDX Type S Advance, today’s tester. (Photos by Mark Maynard or as credited)

Table of Contents

Type S Finesse
20 Years of Acura MDX
2024 Acura MDX Pricing
MDX Type S Assets
MDX Type S Powertrain
Interior Function
9 Cool Things
What’s It Like To Drive?
Back Seats and Cargo
Why Buy the 2024 Acura MDX Type S?
Specifications 

BY MARK MAYNARD

The new Acura MDX Type S is a brand shaper. For those who ponder the point of Honda’s luxury division, Acura is making a statement for technology and performance with its first Type S performance treatment for the midsize MDX SUV.

Sportiness and performance have always been the Acura mantra, but differentiation is more difficult now as many mainstream vehicles have easy supplier access to higher-performance technologies. TV ads of a car or an SUV barnstorming along city streets or sliding along an off-road trail are just so ho-hum.

It was time for a brand makeover in 2022 when Acura brought out “its most radical transformation” of the MDX since the launch of the first-generation model 20 years ago. Acura says it is a quantum leap forward with a bold exterior design and sophisticated new interior. With its role as flagship, Acura specially engineered the MDX Type S for high performance with standard Super Handling all-wheel drive.

The Type S top display screen turns red in Sport mode

The red mist of Sport mode in the top display screen.

Type S Finesse

Acura leverages engineering influence from its halo supercar, the NSX. Though the hybrid electric NSX was taken out of production last year, Acura gave it a sendoff with a limited run of 350 Type S models, each starting at about $172,000. However, according to Automotive News, the NSX might return in 2026 as an electric variant. Acura says, however, that a third-generation is not in development.

Today, the Type S performance treatment also has been applied to the Integra Type S compact hatchback ($51,000), and the TLX Type S midsize sport sedan ($57,745). The only other model in the brand’s four-vehicle lineup without the Type S option is the RDX compact SUV.

Acura will add a fifth vehicle to its lineup early next year with the battery-electric 2024 ZDX and 500-hp ZDX Type S. The ZDX is the brand’s first step as it shifts to become an all-electric brand by 2040, Acura says. ZDX Details are here.

The upcoming Acura ZDX electric crossover

2024 Acura ZDX Type S reveal during the mid-August Monterey Car Week 2023. (Acura)

And learn about Acura’s other future vehicles here.

20 Years of MDX

The fourth-generation 2024 Acura MDX follows the evolutionary footsteps of the first-gen model of 2001-2006, followed by the second-gen of 2007-2013, and the third from 2014-2022. The current model had a complete redesign and re-engineering for 2022.

The Acura MDX and the Honda Pilot share a platform, but their missions separate at birth. The Pilot is the mainstream family SUV with more off-roading credentials; the MDX is the luxury choice emphasizing tech and performance.

Acura refers to the MDX as “the best-selling, 3-row luxury SUV of all time,” though Lexus and BMW might object with their currently higher-selling SUVs, the Lexus RX and BMW X5. Other midsize luxury SUVs include the Audi Q7 and Q8, BMW X5, Genesis GV80, Infiniti QX60, and Lincoln Aviator.

But the MDX is Acura’s top-selling model, narrowly outselling the smaller RDX SUV.

The Acura MDX dual cockpit dashboard layout

The dual-cockpit dashboard is also engaging for the passenger.

2024 Acura MDX Pricing

Sold in two trim levels, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S starts at $69,345 and the 2023 Acura MDX Type S Advance, today’s tester, starts at $74,695. Retail pricing includes the $1,195 freight charge from East Liberty, Ohio, and 2 years or 24,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance.

My tester came to $75,295, including options for Liquid Carbon metallic paint ($600); Acura logo pattern LED lighting (from the side mirror) $188; and illuminated door sill trim for $459.

Standard MDX Type S features are substantial, including keyless entry with push-button ignition, panoramic moonroof with tilt and slide, acoustic laminate windshield and front side glass, 12.3-inch Acura Precision Cockpit gauge information, and a 12.3-inch HD dual-content center touchpad digital display. The long list of features is below in the specifications.

The Advance package adds Acura’s first massaging front seats; Milano leather in a curvilinear quilting pattern; an option for the new Azurite Blue interior color; and a 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition audio system.

New paint colors include a deep Fathom Blue Pearl and Phantom Violet Pearl, a deep purple. Both colors are just a $600 option. There also is the Type S exclusive hue of Tiger Eye Pearl (gold).

Choosing Liquid Carbon paint also adds the choice of a red interior with black and silver accents and gray stylized wood trim. The red is a gorgeous blue-red and is liberally applied throughout the cabin.

Pricing for the standard MDX with 3.5-liter V-6 ranges from about $50,000 for front-wheel drive to $65,000 with Super Handling AWD.

Check here for current Acura MDX pricing. And find special Acura pricing offers here.

The front door panel with bottle storage

Storage with style.

MDX Type S Assets

Acura’s “Precision Crafted Performance” tagline becomes more apparent with the MDX Type S treatment and the Advance package.

For the added $10,000 above the standard MDX, here are some of the Type S performance enhancements:

  • A new front fascia with a more aggressive-looking front spoiler, functional side air inlets, and an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, which also increases airflow to the engine bay;
  • A more aggressively styled rear fascia with four large round exhaust outlets;
  • Gloss black wheel arches and lower body trim;
  • Brembo four-piston front calipers with 14.3-inch ventilated discs. Non-Brembo rear braking is weighty with solid 13-inch discs;
  • First use of a double-wishbone front suspension.

9 Cool Things About MDX

Acura’s attention to detail reinforces pride of ownership for spending $75,000. Here are some features I liked:

  • Door-lock sensors in front and rear doors. I appreciated this simple addition every time I opened the side doors and could lock the door without using the key fob or stepping forward to the front door sensor.
  • Milano leather-trimmed upholstery. It is impressively stitched and precisely installed throughout the cabin.
  • Dual LED lights in the upper tailgate, plus an overhead cargo light;

    Convenient tailgate closer switch, a 12-volt power outlet, and a bag hook.

    Convenient tailgate closer switch, a 12-volt power outlet, and a bag hook.

  • Numerous USB charging ports. Acura gives us the new USB-C fast-charge ports with a few of the older USB-A style for those of us still with an iPhone lightning cable.
  • Large capacity side door storage, fits big and tall bottles;
  • Camera activation switch, in the end of the turn signal stalk;
  • Grab handles above each door, with jacket hooks in the second-row handles;
  • Convenient tailgate closer switch on the side of cargo area, packaged with a 12-volt power outlet, and a bag hook.
  • U.S. built, designed, and engineered.

MDX Safety Technologies

Among the MDX safety credentials are eight air bags, and Agile Handling Assist with traction and stability controls.

Also standard are the driving-assist technologies of Acura Watch. Among those technologies are:

  • Adaptive cruise control;
  • Collision mitigation braking;
  • Forward collision warning;
  • Lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist;
  • Road-departure mitigation;
  • Traffic-jam assist;
  • Auto high-beam assist;
  • Traffic sign recognition.

Calibration of the Level 2 hands-on-the-wheel driver assistance gives good lane centering. The guidance is reasonably consistent without having alert meltdowns in low-light levels or other traffic variables that can cancel the system.

I especially rely on traffic sign recognition, which shows in the gauge array or the head-up windshield display.

The self-sealing 21-inch Continental CrossContact RX high-performance all-season tires.

Self-sealing 21-inch Continental CrossContact RX high-performance all-season tires.

MDX Type S Powertrain

Unique to the MDX S-Type is its turbocharged, 3.0-liter V-6. The Type S twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter helps spool up 355 horsepower and 354 foot-pounds of torque from 1,400-5,000 rpm. (The standard issue MDX V-6 has 290 horsepower and a fuel-sparing 267 lb.ft. of torque at a high 4,700 rpm.)

Other credentials for the Type S engine include:

  • Reinforced engine block with six-bolt main caps for durability and rigidity;
  • Forged crankshaft and connecting rods;
  • A fully square 86mm bore and stroke.
  • Increased cooling. Small subradiators behind both front inner fenders flank the turbo intercooler below the main radiator.
The 355 hp twin-scroll turbocharged and direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6.

The 355 hp twin-scroll turbocharged and direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6.

Transmission, Suspension, and SH-AWD

Also beefed up is the 10-speed automatic transmission. It is tuned for quicker downshifts and faster upshifts in Sport-plus mode.

Acura’s fourth-generation Super Handling All Wheel Drive is improved with expanded torque vectoring for cornering control. In normal driving, 70 percent of engine power is sent to the rear axle, with up to a 100 percent split left to right.

Its air suspension with automatic load leveling and active dampers is unique to the MDX Type S. The electronic system will lower for passenger entry and exit. And, in Sport mode, the suspension lowers 15mm (a little more than a half inch), and for snow or off-road travel, the body rises by 50mm (almost 2 inches).

Acura gave its big SUV a significant presence with 21-inch Continental CrossContact RX high-performance all-season tires. The self-sealing ContiSeal tires are a first for Acura, which gives a better ride quality than run flats. There is enough sidewall height to the 275/40 tires that curb scrapes to the Berlina Black alloy wheels can be avoided, plus the camera system gives a curb view.

A low angle view of the rear MDX showing the undercarriage and dual exhaust system

A quad exhaust salute to Type S power.

Type S Fuel Economy

Official fuel-economy ratings are 17 mpg city, 21 highway, and 19 mpg combined, using the recommended premium fuel. Most of my week’s driving returned an average mpg of 18.6, dipping into the 17s when exercising Sport mode. The 18.5-gallon tank gives a wide cruising radius, but fill-ups can be painful with my city’s current $6-plus-a-gallon 91 octane.

The long and wide center console in the MDX

The front console has a creative design for the wireless charging pad, a quasi-phone slot, a pop-up module for the USB ports, and the “True Touchpad Interface.”

What’s It Like To Drive 

The MDX Type S is not a howling wolf, nor is it a namby-pamby. Its slightly elevated exhaust voice will be acceptable to most enthusiasts.

Big brakes, big tires, all-wheel drive, and luxurious appointments raise the MDX Type S curb weight to 4,788 pounds, the heaviest of all MDX trim levels. Yet, the Type S powertrain shrugs off the weight and delivers a fit and controllable experience. Floor the accelerator in Sport mode, and the V-6 takes a big gulp and powers to 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.5 to 6 seconds, according to online reports. But the force is more appreciable from about 45 to 65 mph when the engine is solidly in its torque band.

It is a refined driving experience all around. The brakes have absolute stopping force without grab and pitch. The steering wheel glides smoothly through the hand and never feels heavy-handed. Laminated windshield and side glass help provide a traffic-calmed interior.

At 16.5 feet long, the MDX looks big at the curb but drives smaller. Those big 21-inch Continental tires help boost the turning circle to a wide 40.5 feet. Inexplicably, however, the MDX curls easily into cramped parking spaces.

Performance modes of Normal or Comfort are capable purveyors of power — until you discover Sport mode. It cranks up the attitude, and the quad exhaust clears its throat to a nicely machined bellow.

The drive-mode system of Lift, Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport-plus can modify such elements as throttle response, steering weight, and suspension firmness. I used Comfort or Normal on the Interstate and Sport for everything else.

Sightlines are open across the hood and out the back glass. Broad side mirrors can get in the way while turning but don’t create major blind spots.

The second row 3 seat bench

A flat floor and 38.5 inches of max legroom.

MDX Interior Function

Take away the Acura “A” on the steering wheel, and you’d be stumped to guess this is a Honda product. The cabin has quality materials with meticulous fit, but it is not overly dressed for family duty.

The MDX feels larger than a “midsize” SUV and more of a “large-midsize,” particularly with the open cabin and 50/50 third-row seats.

I especially like the dual-cockpit layout, which gives the impression of a command center. The three-spoke, flat-bottom steering wheel has a secure leather-wrapped fit in the hands. Robust metal-trimmed pedals and driver’s footrest send a message of performance.

The front seats have broad elbow room and tall headroom of 38.5 inches — with a panoramic sunroof. Especially enjoyable are the 16-way power sport seats (heated and ventilated seats) with power lumbar. Tall adults can dial in a comfortable position with the power seat-bottom thigh extenders and adjustable side bolsters. There also is a nine-way massage function with choices of “Wave,” “Shiatsu,” and “Awake.”

Both MDX trim levels are well packaged at this price point with the expected conveniences and driver-assist technologies. However, a cargo cover is not included, but there is a luxury-priced roller cover for $321. With all the smash-and-grab stories, a roller cargo cover is almost a safety feature.

The flat bottom steering wheel

The MDX Type S command center.

Information Overload

The 12.3-inch-wide infotainment screen has a 60/40 split for dual feeds and the surround-view camera system with a rear washer. But there also is some information overload. The dashboard layout is very noisy with numbers, graphics, screens, knobs, and dials. It is the antithesis of the minimalist Tesla Model X instrument panel with its 17-inch tablet touchscreen.

A Tesla Model X driver area is a minimalist design

Compare the “noise” of the MDX Type S dashboard with the minimalist Tesla Model X treatment with just a 17-inch tablet touchscreen.

The wide driver gauge display is busy with numbers, as are the many functions on the steering wheel. Many cabin controls are tightly grouped in the center module of the instrument panel. The tight space requires smallish buttons and switches, which can take eyes from the road to adjust. There are, however, a separate audio volume knob and rocker switch to advance channels.

And while that infotainment display looks like a touchscreen, it’s not — no matter how many times I reached to tap an icon. Access instead is via a small “True Touchpad Interface” pad on the center console. It just takes finger movements to scroll among the features, but it takes time to adapt to how it works. A robust wrist brace helps the transition, but I’d rather have a touchscreen.

50/50 folding third-row seats.

50/50 folding third-row seats.

MDX Back Seats and Cargo Space

There is no shortage of back-seat features, but squeezing a third row into a five-seat SUV is a shuffle compromise of back-seat space. Passengers in the second row have a flat floor for three-across occasional seating and 38.5 inches of max legroom. There are a few inches of fore-aft slide to help with more legroom in the third row. And the seatbacks recline a few inches, but the seat bottoms are short on adult thigh support.

Electronic climate controls include temperature, fan speed, and vent direction. Below are two charging USB ports, a 12-volt plug, and a household outlet.

Use the “hidden” storage well to corral grocery bags or dump wet or muddy sports gear.

The “hidden” storage.

Access to the third row is by a manual tip-and-slide function. For kids getting out of that space, a button on the second-row seatback springs the seat forward. Third-row legroom is tight at 29.1 inches, but there are charging USBs at both seats and a cup/box holder.

Functionally, the third row folds flat for broad cargo space, and there is deep basement storage with a reversible lid with a hard plastic underside; Acura calls that “Hidden Cargo Storage.”

MDX cargo area with third row folded

The third row folds flat.

Cargo entry width is 48 inches by 29 inches in height. Fold the third row for 47 inches in length, or fold both rows for about 6 ½ feet of board and ladder length.

Why Buy the 2024 Acura MDX Type S?

Acura’s Type S engineering creates a durable and sustainable performance level. It is not of the extreme power and performance of such competitors as the Audi SQ7, BMW M60i, or the Mercedes-AMG GLE. All these models start at about $90,000 and are pushing 500- to 600-horsepower.

As enthusiasts, we all like big horsepower, but the $15,000 price difference for the MDX Type S buys a lot of gasoline and a generous family vacation. And the MDX Type S is still an accommodating road-trip cruiser without such a firm ride that it becomes monotonous after a few hours.

And when considering the long-term maintenance and repair costs of an Acura vs. a BMW or Audi, the MDX is the clear winner. Acura does provide a new-vehicle warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles bumper to bumper, with an Acura maintenance program of 2 years or 24,000 miles.

A hot-rod SUV with seven seats is almost an oxymoron, but Acura must maintain seating for family versatility — with the Type S edge. But could Acura find success with a five-seat version? Or even a four-seat “executive” package, removing the third row to add more second-row legroom?

Acura’s interior finesse and race engineering to modify and reinforce the MDX S Type are a proud statement.

Another rear view

2024 Acura MDX Type S Advance Specifications

Body style: large-midsize, 3-row, 7-seat SUV with Super Handling AWD

Engine: 355-hp twin-scroll turbocharged and direct-injected 3.0-liter V-6; 354 lb.-ft. torque from 1,400-5,000 rpm

Transmission: 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters; Integrated Dynamics System drive modes of Normal, Comfort, Economy, Sport, and Sport-plus

Fuel economy: 17/21/19 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium unleaded fuel recommended

Max towing capacity: 5,000 pounds with AWD

0-60 mph acceleration: 5.5 seconds

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons

Cargo space: 16.3 to 39.1 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.5/41.6 inches

2nd-row head/leg room: 38.1/38.5 inches

3rd-row head/leg room: 36.2/29.1 inches

Length/wheelbase: 198.4/113.8 inches

Width/height: 78.7/67.1 inches

Curb weight: 4,788 pounds

Turning circle: 40.5 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: keyless entry with push-button ignition, panoramic moonroof with tilt and slide, acoustic laminate windshield and front side glass, heated front seats, electric parking brake, 12.3-inch Acura Precision Cockpit driver information, 12.3-inch HD dual-content center touchpad digital display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Cabin Talk (speaker system), Cabin Control smartphone app for climate and audio control, USB-A and USB-C charging ports, 50/50 split 3rd-row bench, hidden cargo storage with reversible lid;

Type S Package: Adaptive air suspension, Acura navigation with real-time traffic routing, rear cross-traffic monitor, front and rear parking sensors, second-row side-window sunshades, leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, ventilated front seats, heated power side mirrors with reverse tilt-down, LED fog lights, ebony headliner, stainless-steel trimmed sport pedals, wireless phone charging pad, Iconic Drive ambient LED cabin lighting (27 colors) along the doors, first-row footwell, instrument panel, console, and door pocket;

Advance package includes: surround-view camera system with rear camera washer, 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition audio system, 16-way power front sport seats with 9-way massage, 10.5-inch head-up display, perforated Milano premium leather-trimmed sport seats with contrast stitching and piping, stylized wood trim (dark gray in the tester), heated steering wheel, power lift tailgate with hands-free access and walk-away close, roof rails, heated second-row seats;

Safety features include: 8 air bags; Agile Handling Assist with traction and stability controls; hill-start assist;

Acura Watch features: Adaptive cruise control; collision mitigation braking; forward collision warning; lane-departure warning; lane-keeping assist; road-departure mitigation; traffic-jam assist; auto high-beam assist.

SUSPENSION COMPONENTS

Suspension: Adaptive air suspension with auto-leveling; double-wishbone front, rear multilink; 30.5mm solid front stabilizer bar, 21.7mm rear bar

Steering: Belt-driven variable-ratio electric power assist; 40.5-foot turning circle

Braking: Brembo 4-piston front calipers with ventilated 14.3-inch front discs, solid 13-inch rear discs

Tires-Wheels: 275/40 R21 Continental CrossContact RX ContiSeal high-performance all-season self-sealing tires; Berlina Black alloy wheels with machined face

PRICING

Base price: $74,695, including $1,195 freight charge; price as tested $75,295

Options on test vehicle: Liquid Carbon metallic paint $600; Acura Logo pattern LED lighting (from side mirror) $188; illuminated door sill trim $459

Where assembled: East Liberty, Ohio

Warranties: 4-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper; Acura maintenance program 2-years/24,000-miles; 6-years/50,000-miles powertrain

American Honda Collection Hall

by | Sep 14, 2023 | 0 comments

American Honda Collection Hall

The American Honda Collection Hall showcases Honda’s history in the U.S. since 1959

The dis[play opened Sept.12, 2023, at company headquarters in Torrance, California

The American Honda Collection Hall at company headquarters in Torrance, Calif., is walk-through learning experience of milestones. (Photography courtesy of American Honda)

Table of Contents

The Power of Dreams
Cars, Bikes & Coffee Events
Honda Cars On View
Motorcycles On View
Power Equipment
Honda-Acura Race Cars

BY MARK MAYNARD

The grand opening of the American Honda Collection Hall was yet another dream realized for the first Japanese automaker to begin sales in the United States.

The expansive collection hall opened Sept. 12, 2023, at U.S. company headquarters in Torrance, Calif. Dozens of media, Honda racers, and fans gathered for the red-logo day of fanfare. There were tributes to associates and longtime and retired American Honda personnel. The Torrance mayor and pro tem mayor spoke of American Honda’s significant contributions to the community in the last 60 years.

Headlining the grand opening was Noriya Kaihara, president and CEO-director of American Honda Motor Co. He spoke of mobility for the future, sustainability in auto production, and the power of dreams, the company’s marketing tagline and corporate philosophy.

Kaihara joined Honda in 1984, spending much of his early career in the service division of Honda Motor Co. He assumed his current role at American Honda on Oct. 1, 2021.

More than six decades of American Honda Motor Co. are on view

The collection hall represents more than six decades since American Honda Motor Co. was established in 1959 at a modest storefront in Los Angeles.

Honda’s Power of Dreams

“Our new American Honda Collection Hall reflects the important connection between the dreams and passion of Honda associates and the joy experienced by customers who love their Honda products and racing fans thrilled by our checkered flag successes,” said Kaihara. “Everyone at Honda is honored to share the expressions of our history in America that are on display in the form of products and technology that have helped move people and society forward.”

American Honda Motor Co. opened in a small storefront in Los Angeles on June 11, 1959. The Japanese brand started in the U.S. selling motorbikes — the Honda Dream, Honda C92 Benly, and Honda Super Cub, known as the Honda 50, in the U.S.

It was the foothold of an upstart to disrupt American motorcycle sales, including by Harley-Davidson and European makes.

The small office at 4077 West Pico Boulevard was moved to the nearby suburb of Gardena at 100 West Alondra in 1963. In 1990, headquarters was relocated to its existing address at 1919 Torrance Boulevard in Torrance. The Honda headquarters occupies 101 acres.

A glass display case of awards

The honors wall.

Embracing the Community

Located in the main lobby of American Honda headquarters, the museum is a way to bring the (car) community to Honda, said CEO Kaihara. The American Honda Collection Hall will be open to the public during regular “Cars, Bikes & Coffee” events starting Oct. 21, 2023.

While there was a previous museum at HQ, it was not open to the public. The new collection hall is a complete redesign, an open and airy walk-through learning experience of milestones. The 20,000-square-foot hall displays more than 60 vehicles from Honda and Acura, motorcycles, power products, engines, and racing machines.

The display will be updated several times a year to highlight different products and themes. Just added in 2024 is a new display of 12 electrified vehicles, concepts, and race cars, including the new Honda Prologue EV, Acura ZDX EV, 2nd-generation NSX, and a custom 1991 Civic EV Pikes Peak racer.

The collection hall is a 20,000-square-foot showcase of Honda milestone vehicles and events.

Honda’s collection hall is a 20,000-square-foot showcase of milestone vehicles and events.

Cars, Bikes & Coffee Events

The collection hall will be open to the public from 9 a.m. to noon on third Saturdays for “Cars, Bikes & Coffee” events. All interesting automobiles and motorcycles from all manufacturers and eras are welcome for attendees to display.

The events typically include giveaways, special displays, vendors, food trucks, and music. And, of course, participants can shop the merchandise display of Honda wearables and more.

Car clubs can plan to attend any upcoming events: April 13, 2024; June 15, 2024; Aug. 17, 2024; Oct. 19, 2024; and Dec. 21, 2024.

To learn more about the Collection Hall and event information, visit hondacollectionhall.com.

Some examples of products currently on display:

Honda merchandise for sale in the museum

Honda merch.

Honda Cars On View

1970 Honda N600 Coupe – The first Honda automobile sold in the U.S. used an air-cooled 600cc two-cylinder engine and retailed for just $1,395.

1975 Honda Civic CVCC Hatchback – The first car to meet the emissions standards of the 1970 U.S. Clean Air Act without needing a catalytic converter.

1979 Honda Accord CVCC Hatchback – The first Accord debuted in 1976 as a three-door hatchback powered by Honda’s revolutionary Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion (CVCC) 4-cylinder engine.

1985 Honda CRX Si – The first performance Honda Si model sold in America, a sporty 2-seat coupe with Honda’s advanced PGM-FI fuel injection.

1986 Acura Legend – The performance luxury touring sedan that launched the Acura brand alongside the Integra.

1991 Acura NSX supercar – The revolutionary hand-built, exotic mid-engine sports car showcased Honda’s technical prowess.

1997 Honda CR-V – Honda’s first in-house SUV helped establish a new breed of compact sport utility vehicle with car-like ride and handling.

2006 Honda Insight – Introduced in 2000, Insight was the first mass-produced gasoline-electric hybrid passenger vehicle sold in the U.S.

Honda motorcycles on display

Honda’s motorcycling milestones.

Honda Motorcycles On View

1962 Honda 50/Super Cub – One of the first three models Honda sold in the U.S. The Super Cub is now the overall bestselling vehicle globally, with over 100 million sold.

1969 Honda CB750A – Widely considered the first superbike and called “the Motorcycle of the Century” by Motorcyclist magazine.

1973 Honda CR/RC250 Elsinore – Honda’s first production motocross motorcycle and the first product Honda manufactured in the U.S., named after the famous Elsinore Grand Prix.

1975 Honda GL1000 Gold Wing – Redefined long-distance touring motorcycles with a revolutionary horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine.

1981 Honda CBX1000 – Honda’s first motorcycle with more than 100 hp, powered by a 1000cc six-cylinder engine.

1983 Honda VF750F – The revolutionary VF750F used a liquid-cooled DOHC V4 engine and a stiff square-tube frame that also helped it dominate superbike racing in the mid-1980s.

1990 Honda VFR750R/RC30 – A homologation special created for competition in the “World Superbike Championship.” 

1992 Honda NR750 – The most technically advanced motorcycle at the time, iconic for its oval-piston engine design and other innovations.

2004 Honda RVT1000R/RC51 – A street version of Honda’s championship-winning V-twin superbike.

Honda power equipment and marine engines in the collection

Honda power equipment and marine engines in the collection.

Honda Power Equipment

1964 Honda CB30 Marine Outboard Engine – Honda’s first outboard marine engine featured a revolutionary four-stroke design.

1965 Honda E300 Generator – The first generator to combine 300-watt output. It was quiet, easy to use, and in a compact design that could be carried with one hand.

2023 Honda GF5 Marine Outboard Engine – A Compact and lightweight portable outboard engine provides a complete performance package for small boats and dinghies.

Honda-Acura Race Cars

1992 Acura Spice GTP-Lights – Powered by a modified Acura NSX V6 engine, carried veteran driver Parker Johnstone to the Drivers’ championship in the IMSA Camel GT Lights series.

1996 Reynard 961-031 Indy Car – Honda/Reynard driven by Indy Car Drivers’ Champion Jimmy Vasser and Rookie of the Year Alex Zanardi.

1997 Acura Integra Realtime – RealTime Racing and the Acura Integra Type R forged a race-winning record that remained unbroken after nearly two decades.

Honda race cars on display

Honda’s racing history is on display.

Honda Civic Type R Review

by | Sep 13, 2023 | 0 comments

Honda Civic Type R Review

If looks could kill. The 315-hp 2023 Honda Civic Type R is a purpose-engineered track star with manners

a championship white Honda Civic Type photographed on a corner of the Sonoma raceway

With 315 turbocharged horsepower, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R is the most powerful model in Type R’s 30-year history. (Photography courtesy of American Honda)

Table of Contents

Engineered Durability
Pricing
Performance
Roll on the Power
Datalogger
Ride and Handling
A Couple of Considerations
Interior Function
Why Buy the Honda Civic Type R?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The 2023 Honda Civic Type R is exciting to look at and just as exciting to drive when its 315-horsepower turbo four is whipped for more, more, more. In between those runs of fury, the Type R settles into its Civic roots as a polite and squeaky-clean compact hatchback.

This segment of high-performance compacts is a storied gathering that includes the Hyundai Elantra N, Subaru WRX, Toyota GR Corolla, VW Golf R, and the Civic Type R.

The Elantra N and the Civic Type R are front-wheel drive, while the other competing models have all-wheel drive. Some are available with an automatic transmission, but the Type R has a six-speed manual only.

Honda’s skill at race-spec engineering transforms one of the top-selling compacts in the U.S. into a purpose-engineered track athlete. And Honda has been at it for 26 years. The Civic Type R has evolved through five different variants globally since it debuted as a 1997 model in Japan and Europe. North America got its first Civic Type R as the fifth-gen model from 2017 to 2021.

Red sport seats and floor mats

Type R interior features include a serial-number plate, high-bolstered front sport seats in red-and-black microsuede fabric, and red floor mats.

The Type R’s Engineered Durability

Built on Honda’s new 11th-generation Civic Hatchback, the sixth-gen 2023 Type R is basically an all-new model from its predecessor. The new hatchback, Honda says, uses 3.8 times more structural adhesive than the previous generation model. Gluing the spot welds doubles the strength and stiffness of the joint. All the better from which to hang the suspension to set performance standards, from the tires to the steering.

To fit the wide Michelin Pilot Sport tires, the new Type R has a 1-inch wider front track and 0.75-inch wider rear track (64/63.5 inches front/rear). There also are significant reinforcements for durability under pressure. For one, the Type R’s transmission has a more rigid exterior case, a high-strength bearing system, and high-strength gears.

Pop the hood, and you’ll find a minimalist red Honda dress-up shroud and a carbon fiber plate over the air induction unit. Look closely for the downspout-sized air intake duct. It takes a lot of fresh air to supply combustion for 315 horsepower.

Honda pushed for speed and control in developing the new 2023 Civic Type R. It set a new production-car, front-wheel drive track record at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan . Home to the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, the new Civic Type R lapped the Suzuka’s 3.6-mile figure-8 in 2 minutes 23.120 seconds. That blistering attack secured its legacy as the best-performing Civic Type R — ever.

According to ZeroTo60Times.com, the 2023 Type R will launch to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The fifth generation Type R is a click quicker at 5 seconds.

2023 Honda Civic Type R Pricing

The Honda Civic Type R is a one-spec choice for engine, manual transmission, and equipment. The 2023 model went on sale in the U.S. about a year ago (Oct. 7, 2022), and already there has been a $900 price bump; the Championship white paint option went up $60, from $395 to $455.

The Type R has a six-speed manual transmission.

A six-speed stick only for the Type R.

Manufacturer pricing for the Civic Type R starts at $44,890, including the $1,095 freight charge from Yorii-Machi, Zaitama, Japan. (However, the Type R engine is built in Honda’s Anna Engine Plant in Sidney, Ohio, and shipped to Japan.) Check here for current Honda and Type R pricing.

My tester was $45,345 with one option for Championship White paint, $455.

Unique Type R interior features include a serial-number plate, high-bolstered front sport seats in red-and-black microsuede fabric with double red stitching, red floor mats, red ambient LED interior lighting, metal-trimmed sport pedals, aluminum shift knob, red illuminated front door panels.

On the outside, look for the Brembo four-piston aluminum front brake calipers, 19-inch matte black alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, gloss black side sills and wing spoiler, center-mounted, and the car’s signature triple outlet exhaust.

More Type R features are listed below in the specifications chart.

But Try To Find One …

Finding a new Civic Type R takes resolve, and fans at a car show told me that some dealers are asking $20,000 over sticker. A recent online search for a Civic Type R returned just four cars within 100 miles of my address in San Diego and just one Type R at a San Diego dealership (Pacific Honda). The other four Honda dealers in San Diego County included with their post, “We can still help you find it.”

Almost-new 2023 Type Rs, with very low miles, are being sold at dealerships for $50,000 to $56,000, according to Carfax.com. Because there are few factory options, just several accessories, these new-used Type R listings appear to include a dealer add-on “market value.”

The Type R engine has a red "Honda"

315 turbocharged horsepower from the K20C 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine.

Type R Performance

Honda’s legion of Type R enthusiasts can be fanatical about their brand loyalty. Speak with any of these followers and they can recite stats for the Type R’s K20C engine. The VTEC turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter four-cylinder has 315 hp at 6,500 rpm, and a redline of 7,000 rpm. Peak torque of 310 foot-pounds runs from 2,600 to 4,000 rpm.

A new turbocharger has an increased air intake flow rate, and boost pressure is up to 25 psi.

There are four drive modes: Comfort, Sport, +R, and Individual. I used Comfort mode for daily driving, and it gave excellent performance without a jarring ride. Sport mode is exponentially stiffer and becomes quite monotonous at interstate speeds. Individual mode, however, allows specific dial-ins for engine response, steering assist, suspension damping, engine sound, rev-match speed, and the red design of the gauge cluster.

The six-speed stick separates the pretenders from the proficient. Each gear slots with absolute engagement, which is the charm of a six-speed box vs. a crowded seven-speed. There’s little chance of accidental jamming when making fast shifts. And hill-start assist gives added relief as it brakes the car for a couple of seconds when starting on an incline.

Another electronic aid is rev-matching downshifts, which, fortunately, is a driver-selectable choice. To those who can heel-toe shift, this electronic enabler is more of an intrusion. It seems sissy when there are so many how-to heel-toe YouTube videos.

The 9-inch driver gauge screen in red Sport mode.

The 9-inch driver gauge screen in Sport mode.

Fuel Economy Ratings

Official EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2023 Type R are 22 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 mpg combined. Using premium fuel provides the most power, but engine electronics will adjust to run on 87 octane.

I saw a highway mileage reading of 26.8 mpg, beating the EPA estimates. But I’m sure my around-town mileage was sacrificed by too much revving fun.

And keep an eye on the fuel gauge. It does not take long to use up the 12.4-gallon capacity. But a fill-up doesn’t hurt much when gas costs nearly $6 a gallon.

Safety Features

Type R safety features include 10 air bags and a complete set of driving-assist technologies (listed below in the specs box). The Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assist felt a little skitzy — insistent — at the steering wheel. Lane-centering, however, was accurate and reassuring in heavy traffic.

One of my most appreciated technologies is the Traffic Sign Recognition system. It is essential to know the speed limits in this speed-capable Type R.

Honda’s LogR Datalogger

Any sports car with tires this wide, a wing this big, and race seats demands a Performance Datalogger. And Honda complied with an enhanced version of its LogR Performance Datalogger. The datalogger helps drivers monitor and record various performance parameters, whether in real-time on the road, track, or other closed courses. Users can also share their lap times and other data with other Type R owners.

Key Honda LogR features include:

  • Stopwatch to record lap times;
  • Tire friction circle. The 3D motion indicator displays the tire force the vehicle achieves;
  • Scoring function, to help drivers improve their track driving.
19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires have a “contact patch” that is 10.7 inches wide.

19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires have a “contact patch” that is 10.7 inches wide. (Mark Maynard photo)

Power-To-Weight Ratio

The Type R is among the lightest of the current pocket rockets, weighing just 3,188 pounds, two pounds more than the front-drive Elantra N (also front-drive). Lightweighting measures include a vented aluminum hood (same as before) and a new lightweight resin hatch and a resin front bulkhead.

But saving weight also means paring back the budget for soundproofing, and the Type R’s interior noise level is at “Maelstrom” at highway speeds. At 65 mph, the engine revs at 2,500 rpm in sixth gear, and the wind and road harshness only increase with speed.

Type R Ride and Handling

Laying down 310 foot-pounds of torque to the front wheels can be a fury of dreaded “torque steer.” Hard acceleration in an FWD setup can make the tires pull from side to side as they seek traction. That is one reason some of these hot hatches are all-wheel drive, which helps displace torque steer by routing the force to all tires.

Honda has neatly solved the torque steer matter with a couple of engineering enhancements. One is what Honda calls a “dual axis suspension system with adaptive dampers.” The setup “greatly reduces torque steer, primarily through a 0.75-inch reduction in steering axis offset.”

The second piece of magic is the helical-type limited-slip differential, which minimizes wheel spin and puts more power to the pavement. The LSD enables harder acceleration on surfaces with uneven traction and reduces wheel spin when exiting corners.

By the way, Honda says a helical-type LSD describes how the differential’s gear teeth are cut at an angle to the gear shaft. Helical gears are quieter and can channel more torque than straight-cut (or spur) gears.

Roll On the Power

The revs have a sweet rise and fall as gears are neatly engaged. With the engine’s wide-spread of peak torque, shifts do not have to be rushed. Hustling along at 4,000 rpm through a second-gear turn is inspiring. Exit the apex and slot the shifter for third, and roll on the power — then smile at the reassuring pushback in the seat. That’s when these sport seats are in their element.

And that is also when the 19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires (265/30) are in their playground. These 10.7-inch-wide rollers bring an attack attitude to performance driving.

The tires have an asymmetric tread pattern and a treadwear rating (UTQG, or Uniform Tire Quality Grade) of 300. Honda advises that these three-season “summer” tires have a life that “may be less than 10,000 miles, depending on how you drive.”

Replacing a tire will run close to $400 — and do not cheap out when it’s time for replacements, or risk a compromise to handling performance.

The Type R’s signature triple round exhaust outlets are centered by the larger boom tube. In Sport mode, the exhaust note is one of determined grit under brisk acceleration, but the tone falls off quickly for quiet cruising.

Honda should have released the booming beast at all levels to remind owners why they paid $50,000 or $60,000 for a compact hatchback. Pull out a couple of baffles and let loose the snap, crackle, and pop.

A Couple of Considerations

With the hatchback’s 1.7-inch longer wheelbase(107.7 inches) and the wide Michelins, the Type R turning circle is an unwieldy 40 feet (39.9 inches). The low ride height is also a chin scraper, requiring some caution at dips in the street and some driveways.

The 9-inch color infotainment touchscreen adds a volume knob, customizable feature settings, and smart shortcuts

The 9-inch color infotainment touchscreen adds a volume knob, customizable feature settings, and smart shortcuts

Interior Function

This generation of Civic Hatchback is a solid base for performance. It has thinner windshield pillars, a lower hood, and the side mirrors mounted on the doors — not the pillar — creating a wide look-around.

Sightlines are open across the hood and out the back, even with that big wing on the decklid. The designers cleverly shaped the wing with an arc that matches the surround of the back glass.

The cabin ergonomics are Honda simple and direct. There’s nothing wrong with the leather-wrapped three-point steering wheel that a flat bottom wouldn’t improve for thigh space. Honda offers an Alcantara-wrapped upgrade with red baseball stitching for $408, but it does not have a flat bottom.

The big, winged race seats, ready for a three-point harness, are a one-size-fits-most.

A short throw shifter with a red shift knob is a $230 accessory, and it might be a worthwhile addition. The aluminum shift knob gets hot when the car has been sitting in the sun; the smooth finish of the knob can mean a missed shift if it slips in the hand. The accessory shifter has a metallic disc top with the lower portion wrapped in red leather.

The open cargo hatch of the Type R

The hatchback Type R has a 60/40 folding back seat and 24.5 cubic feet of trunk space.

Why Buy the Honda Civic Type R?

The Civic Type R is a street-able track car that looks like trouble. It is actually quite harmless but best enjoyed at high volume in competitive driving. The suspension gives stunning control, but as a Monday-Friday commuter, Comfort mode will be the way to go; Sport is just too rough.

As one enthusiast said of the Type R: “Hey, it has four doors; the spouse would approve.”

You can’t miss the Type R’s big wing, decklid spoiler, and triple exhaust tips.

You can’t miss the Type R’s big wing, decklid spoiler, and triple exhaust tips.

2023 Honda Civic Type R Specifications

Body style: Compact 4-seat, 5-door front-wheel-drive high-performance hatchback

Engine: K20C 315 hp, VTEC turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter 4-cylinder; 310 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,600 to 4,000 rpm; 7,000 rpm redline

Boost pressure: 25psi

Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission with automatic rev-matching, and hill-start assist

Fuel economy: 22/28/24 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium fuel recommended for max performance

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 12.4 gallons

Cargo space: 24.5 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 39.3/42.3 inches

Rear head/leg room: 37.1/37.4 inches

Length/wheelbase: 180.9/107.7 inches

Height/width: 55.4/74.4 inches

Curb weight: 3,188 pounds; 62/38 weight distribution

Turning circle: 39.9 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Smartkey entry with push-button start, multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, 10.2-inch driver info screen, 12-speaker Bose sound System with subwoofer, 9-inch color touchscreen (with volume knob, customizable feature settings, and smart shortcuts), electric parking brake, Bluetooth phone and audio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 2.5-amp USB smartphone-audio port (front), 2.5-amp USB charging port, 12-volt power outlet (front), wireless charging pad, sliding sun visors, LED map lights, cargo area cover,

Type R features, interior: Type R serial-number plate, high-Bolstered front sport seats with red-black microsuede fabric with double red stitching, red floor mats, red ambient LED interior lighting, leather-wrapped steering wheel, metal-trimmed sport pedals, aluminum shift knob, red illuminated front door panels, active sound control

Type R features, exterior: Brembo 4-piston aluminum front brake calipers, 19-inch matte black alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, aluminum hood, red Honda badges, Type R badges front and rear, gloss black side sills, gloss black wing spoiler, center-mounted, triple outlet exhaust with active exhaust valve, gloss black side mirrors with LED turn signals

Safety features include: 10 air bags, stability and traction controls, brake distribution, brake assist, and hill-start assist.

Driving-Assistance Technologies

Collision Mitigation Braking; Road Departure Mitigation; Adaptive Cruise Control; Lane Keeping Assist; Forward Collision Warning; Lane Departure Warning; Traffic Sign Recognition System; Auto High-Beam Headlights; Driver Attention Monitor; Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor;

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Suspension: Adaptive damper system; dual-axis MacPherson front struts, rear multi-link; stabilizer bars front (tubular) and rear (solid);

Steering: Dual-pinion, variable-ratio electric power steering; 2.1 turns lock to lock;

Brakes: Power-assisted and ventilated 2-piece front discs, solid rear; 13.8-inch rotors front, 12 inches rear; Brembo 4-piston aluminum front calipers;

Tires-Wheels: 19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (265/30); 19-inch matte black alloy wheels; tire-repair kit.

PRICING

Base price: $44,890, including $1,095 freight charge; price as tested $45,345

Options on test vehicle: Championship White paint $455

Where assembled: Yorii-Machii, Saitama, Japan

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper with 24-hour roadside assistance; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain

Hyundai Ioniq 6 Review

by | Sep 6, 2023 | 0 comments

Hyundai Ioniq 6 Review

There is nothing “traditional” about the midsize Ioniq 6, but its features and technologies are familiar, with welcome engagement for driver and occupants.

A side view of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 electric sedan

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is sold in four trim levels in rear or all-wheel drive with standard and long-range battery options. Starting prices range from $42,715 to $57,215. (Photos courtesy of Hyundai USA or as credited)

Table of Contents

Who Will Buy the Ioniq 6?
Choices of Power and Driving Ranges
Charging the Ioniq 6
2024 Ioniq 6 Pricing
Touchy Feely Design
The Human Experience
Enter the Living Space
Clever Function
Ride and Handling
Driver Assist Technologies
Back Seats and Cargo
Why Buy the Hyundai Ioniq 6?
2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is not just a benchmark electric car; it is a well-done passenger car without gimmicks or compromise to comfort or drivability.

For those considering an electric vehicle, the Ioniq 6 treats you right, from its gracious ride quality to its ease of entry and exit and many appreciated details. Its potential as an emergency power source is not the least among its assets.

The midsize “coupe sedan” has been a breakout star for Hyundai. The Ioniq 6 debuted last year and is a “carryover” model with no changes for 2024.

Exterior styling of the Ioniq 6 has stirred controversy. The rear end is very busy with two spoilers, vertical metallic accent bars, and “parametric pixel” cubes liberally applied in the lighting.

Front views are sleek and refined, with a smooth slope to the hood, centered between the curvaceous fenders. The dramatic slope is key to aerodynamics, but at a compromise to space in the front trunk. The frunk’s 0.5 cu.ft. shows good use of space, but the space is long and shallow but lighted. How an owner would use this leftover space? For gloves? A microfiber towel? Christmas gift hiding place?

Trimming the height of the frunk was likely to allow the steep slant of the nose, contributing to low aerodynamic drag. Intended or not, the slope of the hood also allows open sightlines. The slant design treatment has been compared to the 1980s Porsche 911 Turbo S “slantnose.” The Porsche “Flachbau,” or flat front design, had a low front aerodynamic flow for its race cars.

Driver information comes from two side-by-side, 12.3-inch digital screens with white backgrounds.

Driver information comes from two side-by-side, 12.3-inch digital screens.

Who Will Buy the Ioniq 6?

Hyundai’s marketing research has decided that the focus buyer for the Ioniq 6 will be:

  • Millennial professionals who are confident in their choices and looking to transition to electric;
  • Accomplished singles or couples who are typically urban. They are comfortable standing apart and differing from the status quo. They seek to make an informed choice for their next vehicle;
  • They are looking to reward themselves with an EV that makes a statement of confidence and doesn’t compromise on a premium interior, advanced technology (safety and connectivity), or limit (through charging and range) their active lifestyle.
The front seatbacks gently cradle with modest cushion bolstering that does not give a goodbye wedgie when exiting.

The front seatbacks gently cradle with modest cushion bolstering.

Choices of Power and Driving Ranges

The 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 is sold in four trim levels in rear or all-wheel drive with standard and long-range battery options:

Standard range RWD with a 53-kWh battery pack of 264 cells; 149-hp (111kW); up to 240-mile range; 0-62 mph 9 seconds.

Long range RWD with a 77.4 kWh battery pack of 384 cells; 225 hp (168kW); up to 361-mile range; 0-62 mph 7.4 seconds.

Dual-Motor HTRAC AWD long range, with 77.4 kWh battery; 320 hp (239 kW), up to 316-mile range; 0-62 mph 5.1 seconds.

The single-speed transmission has four driving modes of Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow, and Custom, with a dedicated eAWD torque split for each drive mode.

The power closing charge door on the right rear flank.

The power closing charge door on the right rear flank. (Mark Maynard photo)

Charging the Ioniq 6

According to Hyundai, the Ioniq 6 battery pack will charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in 18 minutes at an ultra-fast 800V charging facility. Connecting to the more common 350-kW Level 3 fast charger can add as much as 65 miles of range in 5 minutes.

Hyundai includes a 10.9-kW onboard charger as standard equipment so owners can plug it into a household outlet or a 240V Level 2 home charger. Charging a depleted battery at home on a Level 2 charger would take around seven hours. I plugged in at home with 150 miles remaining on the charge, and it took about 4 hours to reach 100 percent.

Here are the official charging times, up to 80 percent:

Level II standard 120-volt: 6 hours 55 minutes

50kW: 73 minutes;

Rapid Charging, 350kW: 18 minutes.

Hyundai’s Multi-Charging System

Hyundai has patented its multi-charging system, calling it world-first technology. The system enables the motor and inverter to boost 400V to 800V for stable charging compatibility.

The technology includes “reverse compatibility,” also known as bidirectional. This added level of engineering — Vehicle to Load (V2L) — allows the Ioniq 6 battery to be used as an alternate power source. V2L is handy in the event of a significant power outage. It has enough power to operate small appliances, recharge electronic devices, or boost another EV.

The shift-by-wire gear selector.

The no-confusion shift-by-wire gear selector.

Recharging an EV on vacation travel is still a time-management effort, no matter if the EV has a range of 600 miles. The recharge still requires a break for a meal or shopping.

Hyundai has partnered with Electrify America to provide free fast-charge sessions. The plan is provided to any new all-electric Hyundai model. For the Kona small SUV, owners will receive up to 250kWh or about 1,000 miles of driving. Buyers of the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 get two years of 30-minute DC fast-charging sessions.

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Pricing

Starting prices include the $1,115 freight charge from Asan, Korea; add $3,500 for AWD:

SE RWD standard range: $42,715;

SE RWD long range: $46,615;

SEL: $48,815 (RWD 305-mile range, AWD 270-mile range);

Limited RWD: $53,715, up to 305-mile range;

Limited AWD, $57,215, up to 270-mile range.

The Limited AWD Long Range tester cost $58,425 with Gravity Gold matte paint ($1,000) and carpeted floor mats ($210).

Find current Hyundai pricing here.

Hyundai’s new-vehicle warranties include 10 years or 60,000 miles bumper to bumper and 10 years or 100,000 miles for the powertrain and electric vehicle systems.

The front door panel grip rail with ambient lighting.

The front door panel grip rail with ambient lighting.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 Incentives and Rebates

Leasing a 2023 and 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 qualifies for up to $7,500 in an IRS credit. The incentive is only available on a lease, and other qualifiers can apply. Learn more here.

There is a California Clean Fuel Reward of $2,000, but participants are eligible based on gross annual income, as stated on their federal tax return. Details are here.

Find federal and state laws or incentives here.

And the Ioniq 6 qualifies for High-Occupancy-Vehicle freeway access, with the green DMV decal

A front trunk of 0.5 cu.ft. shows good use of space, but how would an owner use it? For gloves? A microfiber towel? Christmas gift hiding place?

How would an owner use this shallow but lighted front trunk? (Mark Maynard photo)

Touchy Feely Design

Hyundai went far left coast in planning the Ioniq 6 interior. In the big wall map of features to be considered, Hyundai designers came up with many categories including “Mindful Cocoon,” “Ethical Design,” and “Emotional Efficiency.”

The cabin is referred to as “Living Space” and is defined by a cab-forward exterior design, a stretched cabin, and a low hood for a streamlined silhouette. The cabin as “Living Space” would have “Transparent Accents,” “Light Reflection,” “Parametric Pixel,” and “Eco Materials,” for “Sustainability.”

That’s a touchy-feely marketing focus that doesn’t mean a whole lot to an owner, but Hyundai neatly ties it all together. Perhaps most apparent is the “Parametric Pixel.” In, out, and around the Ioniq 6 are series of cube pixel-like accents, such as in the taillights, the trunk-lid spoiler, and on the steering wheel. There is no badge for Hyundai or Ioniq on the wheel, just a row of four, square pixels that light up when charging; they show the state of charge, whether one, two, or four squares.

The dashboard ‘winglet’ design.

The dashboard’s‘winglet’ design.

The Human Experience

Popular magazine reviews of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 go deep into its powertrain kilowattage, 0-60 acceleration, and charging times. The Ioniq 6 aces those categories, which an owner will quickly accept and appreciate. However, there is a bigger presence of thoughtfulness toward the human experience. That aspect will be a pleasant discovery period for the many surprise-and-delight features throughout the living space.

Achieving max aerodynamic flow can mean lowering the car’s ride height. That’s good for the manufacturer’s fuel-efficiency standards but damning to the driver and occupants who must drop into a seat while peering into the taillights of the vehicle ahead. Ride height is one reason SUVs have become so popular. Hyundai, however, managed to give the Ioniq 6 a comfortable step-in height with a commanding forward view. Most modern sedans are now notorious for chin-scraping on driveways and dips in the road, but the Ioniq 6 has none of those tendencies.

Those attributes alone make the Ioniq 6 a “buy.”

An artsy view from the back seat forward showing the wide sunroof

Enter the Living Space

Modern low-riding sedans lost buyers because of trimmed headroom. Hyundai went upward with Ioniq 6 headroom, providing (tall for a car) 40.2 inches of hair space without the wide sunroof or 38.3 inches with it.

Seat design is another strong selling point, whether in the front or back. Hyundai’s H-Tex leatherette upholstery feels rich to the touch and is more compliant than leather hides. The front seatbacks gently cradle with modest cushion bolstering that does not give a goodbye wedgie when exiting. Thigh support is full-bodied and suitable for those tall enough to need all 45.4 inches of the car’s very long legroom.

The tester’s interior was basic black but refined by meticulously neat stitching, patterns, textures, and translucent plastics in the lower areas of the cabin. I liked the robust driver’s footrest, and the metal-trimmed pedals fit well with the interior design and black microsuede headliner.

And the greenhouse of the living space is a lighthouse of unobstructed views at the side mirrors, over the shoulder, and the somewhat cropped back glass.

A winglet-design dashboard is unique with 90-degree angles at each end by the windows. The dashboard looks like a plug-and-play unit, but it all works — though it will look odd for the first few drives.

Driver information comes from two side-by-side, 12.3-inch digital screens with white backgrounds. The driver’s instrument cluster with EV display is visible in all lighting conditions with text and graphics that are an easy read.

The HD touch-screen navigation screen includes a split screen for the around-view camera system. The screen anchors at least a dozen categories with icons for connecting a phone, media, climate, and charging.

The “bridge” center console with storage shelf below.

The “bridge” console with storage shelf below.

Clever Function

A “bridge” console extends from the base of the instrument panel and divides the front seats, with unique storage. The upper level has cup holders, a wireless charging pad, window lift switches, and door locks. An armrest box has useful storage and conceals two Type C USB ports, and there is an old-style USB-A next to the wireless charging pad.

Below the bridge is a long, open storage space with low sides for a purse or take-out food bags.

Without a space-robbing gearshift lever, the designers rethought what could be. Placing window and lock controls on the console is different, but I adapted quickly. Moving the switches from the traditional door panel allowed the designer to create a long, padded armrest with an integrated grab rail for closing the door. On opening, the grab rail — with a bead of ambient lighting — provides the ideal leverage point to control the door from punching the car next to it.

Hyundai gives owners a 3-month trial for the Wi-Fi hotspot, followed by a $20 per month Verizon data plan. Or the owner can add the Ioniq 6 to their phone plan.

Mercifully, the digital infotainment touchscreen has various buttons and switches for such oft-used features as volume, tuning, fan speed, and temp control.

All controls were intuitive for me to quickly figure out and use — a degree in IT is not required. Also smartly designed is the steering-column mounted, shift-by-wire gear selector. The sturdy stalk is clearly marked D-N-R, with a Park button at the end. Turning the tab-end of the stalk was never confusing to select D or R.

an image of the Ioniq's 20-inch Pirelli tire and alloy wheel

The Ioniq 6 Limited has 20-inch Pirelli P Zero Elect all-season tires. (Mark Maynard photo)

Ioniq 6 AWD Ride and Handling

Underpinned by a seemingly unsophisticated steel suspension, there is outstanding control from the front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link. The setup provides capable finesse in enthusiastic driving, but the main asset is how the suspension absorbs the jarring roughness of crappy road surfaces and potholes. The ride is luxurious without a complex air ride system or electronic control.

On the Interstate with cruise set and Hyundai Drive Assist engaged, the Ioniq 6 settles in and tracks like a streamliner. The ride quality is consistently unruffled over California’s cantankerous concrete highways, but the ride is carpet smooth on blacktop.

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is among the aerodynamic slipperiest cars on sale today. Models with 18-inch wheels have a drag coefficient of 0.20, while 20-inch models rise to 0.27 (matching the 2023 Toyota Prius). Other aerodynamically sleek cars include the Mercedes-Benz EQS and Mercedes-Benz EQE (0.20), Lucid Air (0.21cd), and Porsche Taycan (0.22 cd).

Ioniq 6 back seat

The Ioniq 6 has a comfortable stretch of back legroom.

Driver Assist Technologies

The Ioniq 6 has all the expected safety features, including six air bags and a full spectrum of advanced technologies, including Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist 2.

This evolved system is reliably accurate for Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. When engaged, the lane-centering function is spot-on and keeps the car from drifting wide across the white lines or Botts dots. However, some stretches of light-colored Interstate highway can play tricks on the cameras, causing brief slowdowns.

The evolved technologies now allow Lane Change Assistance. It can be activated when the turn signal is held for a left or right move and the driver has hands on the steering wheel. In my experience, the response was too slow, and I intervened to make the lane change. This function is just one more layer of technology toward fully autonomous driving.

More relevant in the evolved HDA is how it now can respond to low-speed cut-ins of other vehicles or motorcyclists. The system also will adjust the car’s position in the lane if another vehicle in the adjacent lane moves too close.

Also evolved is the Smart Cruise Control with Machine Learning. This electronic “intelligence” mimics the driver’s acceleration style and spacing with the vehicle ahead. I’m too much of an actual driver to give up this type of control.

Other advanced driving-assist technologies include:

  • Blind-spot collision-avoidance assist and Blind-Spot View Monitor;
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist;
  • Parking Distance Warning, reverse and forward;
  • Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (reverse, forward, side);
  • Remote Smart Parking Assist 2;
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Car/Ped/Cyclist Detection and Junction Turning;
  • Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist;
  • Intelligent Speed Limit Assist.
Fold the 60/40 rear seatback for 6 feet in length. (Mark Maynard photo)

Fold the 60/40 rear seatback for 6 feet in length. (Mark Maynard photo)

Back Seat and Cargo Space

The Ioniq 6 is too nice to use as a ride-share sedan, but what a lovely back seat it has.

A comfortable stretch of back legroom seems longer than its specification of 34.7 inches. Headroom is adult accommodating for all but the very tall, somewhat cropped by the trailing arc of the roofline.

A completely flat floor provides exceptional three-across footroom. The bench seat has good thigh support and a relaxed seatback angle. The door panel has a bottle slot and a uniquely integrated niche as a small catchall for gum wrappers and other bits. The door also has the armrest rail for easy closing.

Other occupant amenities include a fold-down center armrest with dual can holders, two USB-C ports, center air vents with left and right flow, and grab handles above each door with a jacket hook on the driver side.

Trunk space is wide and low, looking more spacious than its 11.2 cubic feet. But fold the 60/40 seatback for up to six feet in ladder or ski length. A power trunk closer is a bonus for the Ioniq 6 Limited.

Charging cable storage under the trunk floor.

Charging cable storage under the trunk floor. (Mark Maynard photo)

Why Buy the Hyundai Ioniq 6?

For those who have said good riddance to a modern midsize sedan, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 could be a mind-changer, not just a game-changer.

The average price of a new midsize sedan is around $32,000, which compares to $48,000 for a midsize SUV, according to MoneyGeek.

Spending a little more upfront for the Ioniq 6 — charging at home is a lot cheaper than buying gasoline — buys a no-compromises family car, with the added incentive of it being a power source for emergency support or pleasurable activities.

A rear view of the Ioniq 6

The Limited AWD Long Range tester cost $58,425 with Gravity Gold matte paint ($1,000) and carpeted floor mats ($210).

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited Specifications

Body style: midsize 5-seat, 4-door coupe-sedan in rear- or all-wheel drive

Motor: Permanent magnet synchronous

Power, AWD: 320 hp, 74 kW + 165 kW; 446 lb.-ft. torque

Battery: 77.4 kWh lithium-ion, 697 volts; output 277 kW

Transmission: Single-speed reduction gear

EPA-estimated driving range: 316 miles

Fuel economy equivalent, MPGe: AWD 111/94/103 city/hwy/combined); RWD
129/105/117

Charging, up to 80%:

Level II standard 120-volt: 6 hours 55 minutes

50kW: 73 minutes;

Rapid Charging, 350kW: 18 minutes;

BY THE NUMBERS

Coefficient of drag: 0.22 cd

Trunk space, rear: 11.2 cubic feet; 0.5 cu.ft. front trunk

Front head/leg room: 38.3*/45.4 inches *w/sunroof

Rear head/leg room: 36.9/34.7 inches

Length/wheelbase: 191.1/116.1 inches

Width/height: 74/58.9 inches

Curb weight: 4,616 pounds

Turning circle: 38.8 feet

FEATURES

Standard Limited equipment includes: smart key locking and push-button ignition, 12.3-inch HD touchscreen navigation system, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with EV display, Hyundai digital key (smartphone access), surround-view monitor, wireless device charging, Bose audio system with satellite radio, Android Auto or Apple CarPlay infotainment, Bluetooth phone and audio, H-Tex upholstery, 8-way power front seats with lumbar, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, 60/40-split folding rear seats with armrest and cup holders;

Exterior features: wide sunroof, solar glass on front doors and windshield, acoustic windshield;

Safety features include: 6 air bags, electronic stability and traction controls, Brake Assist;

Advanced safety technologies, include:

  • Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go + Machine Learning;
  • Remote Smart Parking Assist 2;
  • Blind-spot collision-avoidance assist;
  • Blind-Spot View Monitor;
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist;
  • Parking Distance Warning, reverse and forward;
  • Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (reverse, forward, side);
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Car/Ped/Cyclist Detection and Junction Turning;
  • Lane Keeping Assist;
  • Lane Following Assist;
  • Intelligent Speed Limit Assist;
  • Highway Driving Assist II;

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Tires and wheels: 20-inch 245/40 Pirelli P Zero elect all season tires;

Braking: 4-wheel regenerative with brake-level control paddles;

Steering: Motor-driven power-assisted, 38.9-foot turning circle;

Chassis: Monocoque high-strength steel unibody;

Suspension: Front MacPherson struts with coil springs and gas shock absorbers; rear multi-link

PRICING

Base Limited price: $53,715, including $1,115 freight charge; price as tested $58,425

Options on test vehicle: Gravity Gold matte paint $1,000; carpeted floor mats $210

Where assembled: Asan, Korea

Warranties: 10-years/60,000-miles bumper to bumper; 10-years/100,000-miles powertrain and electric vehicle systems; 3-years/36,000-miles free scheduled maintenance; 5-years/unlimited mileage roadside assistance