Does the Acura Type S have a turbo?
Yes. All current Acura Type S models use turbocharged engines.
Across Acura’s Type S lineup, turbocharging is the defining feature that distinguishes these performance variants from their non-Type S siblings. The TLX Type S and Integra Type S each pair forced induction with distinct powertrains and drivetrains to deliver higher performance than standard models.
The Type S lineup and turbocharged powertrains
The Type S family in the United States currently centers on two models, each reinforcing Acura’s performance credentials with a turbocharged heart. Here’s how each one uses a turbo to generate speed and agility.
TLX Type S: turbocharged inline-6 with all-wheel drive
The TLX Type S relies on a turbocharged inline-6 engine to deliver its performance, paired with all-wheel-drive for better traction and handling. Here are the key turbo-related specifications for this model:
- 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6
- 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque
- Standard SH-AWD (torque-vectoring all-wheel drive)
- Transmission: automatic (no manual transmission option)
In summary, the TLX Type S uses a powerful turbocharged six-cylinder under the hood, routed through an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive to maximize performance on varied road surfaces.
Integra Type S: turbocharged four-cylinder with a manual option
The Integra Type S brings a different turbocharged setup tuned for compact-sport performance, including a manual transmission to appeal to driving enthusiasts. Its turbocharged engine and drivetrain specifics include:
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
- 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque
- Six-speed manual transmission is standard (no automatic option)
- Front-wheel drive with a performance-oriented limited-slip differential
Thus, the Integra Type S also uses forced induction, but it emphasizes a manual gearbox and front-wheel-drive dynamics to deliver a focused, driver-centric experience.
Why turbocharging matters for Type S performance
Turbochargers boost power by forcing more air into the engine, which allows smaller engines to produce higher horsepower and torque without a proportional increase in displacement. For Acura’s Type S models, the turbocharged setups are designed to balance peak power with daily drivability, offering strong acceleration, improved throttle response, and a more engaging drive than non-Type S variants.
Summary
In short, the Acura Type S line is built around turbocharged engines. The TLX Type S uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 with all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission, delivering high horsepower and torque. The Integra Type S uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 with a six-speed manual and front-wheel drive, delivering strong performance with a traditional manual experience. Together, these configurations illustrate how turbocharging remains central to Acura’s Type S identity.
