Is Acura a performance car?
Acura is a brand, not a single performance car. It has built a reputation for performance through flagship models like the NSX and the Type S variants, while also offering mainstream luxury cars.
Established in 1986 as Honda's premium division in North America, Acura has long positioned itself around a blend of luxury refinement and performance-driven engineering. The current strategy centers on dedicated performance variants—especially the Type S lineup—and a halo model in the NSX, balanced by a practical lineup of sedans and SUVs designed for everyday use.
Understanding Acura's identity
Acura's identity spans more than one vehicle. While it does not consist of a single “performance car,” the brand emphasizes sportier dynamics through selective engineering choices, chassis tuning, and powertrain options. The tagline Precision Crafted Performance has guided Acura’s approach to blending driving engagement with everyday usability.
Performance-focused models
Below is a concise look at Acura's main performance-oriented models and variants that have shaped the brand's sporting image, including both historical icons and current offerings.
- NSX — Acura's halo car, a mid-engine hybrid supercar with a high-revving V6 paired with electric motors, delivering roughly 573 horsepower.
- TLX Type S — a sport-influenced sedan introduced in the early 2020s with about 355 horsepower and enhanced chassis tuning.
- MDX Type S — a performance-oriented SUV offering around 355 horsepower with sport-tuned dynamics.
- RDX Type S — a compact luxury SUV with about 315 horsepower and a sport-oriented drivetrain.
- Integra Type R — a historic, highly regarded two-door hatchback from the late 1990s (US market), celebrated for nimble handling and a high-revving engine.
Taken together, these models illustrate Acura's performance approach: high-revving powertrains, precise handling, and advanced technology applied across sport sedans and SUVs, culminating in a flagship halo car.
Current positioning and future direction
In the mid-2020s, Acura continues to push its Type S variants across the lineup, expanding performance-focused options while embracing electrification as part of Honda’s broader strategy. The NSX remains the brand’s performance beacon, even as its production winds down, and its engineering philosophy informs newer powertrain and chassis developments. Looking ahead, Acura aims to sustain a balance between driver-oriented dynamics and luxury practicality, with electrified powertrains becoming more common across its lineup while preserving a sporty driving character.
How to recognize a performance Acura
Key indicators include special Type S badging, more powerful engine options, sport-tuned suspension, upgraded braking systems, and distinctive exterior styling cues that signal enhanced performance capabilities.
Before you shop, note that the Type S variants are the primary entry points for performance living within Acura’s lineup, while the NSX represents the extreme, track-ready end of the spectrum.
Performance indicators in practice
- Badging and trim: Type S designation signals enhanced power and chassis tuning.
- Powertrain: turbocharged V6 engines in Type S models and the hybrid setup in NSX.
- Handling and brakes: sport-tuned suspensions, dampers, and often upgraded braking systems.
- Dynamics: sharper steering, more aggressive exhaust and aero cues, and driving modes centered on performance.
For enthusiasts, choosing a Type S variant or the NSX offers the strongest indication of Acura’s performance emphasis, while standard models deliver luxury and reliability with optional sport-oriented enhancements.
Summary
Acura is a brand, not a single performance car. Its performance identity centers on a family of models—most notably the NSX and the Type S variants—that demonstrate the company's commitment to speed, handling, and advanced engineering. In parallel, Acura continues to offer practical luxury vehicles for daily driving, all while advancing electrified powertrains and maintaining its reputation for precision driving dynamics.
Does Acura have performance cars?
Find Your Drive. Acura presents two exhilarating models — the strikingly crafted 2026 Integra Premium Sport Compact and the athletic 2025 TLX Premium Sport Sedan. Both were built to blur the line between superior style and performance.
Is Acura a performance brand?
Acura is the luxury and performance division of Japanese automaker Honda, based primarily in North America. The brand was launched on March 27, 1986, marketing luxury and performance automobiles.
Is Acura faster than Lexus?
It depends on the specific model, as Acura generally focuses more on sporty performance while Lexus emphasizes comfort and a more polished ride. In direct comparisons, some Acura models like the RDX and TLX have shown advantages in handling and power over their direct Lexus competitors (like the NX and IS 300), especially with features like their Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD). However, high-performance Lexus models can outperform some Acura counterparts, and the Lexus brand often leads in overall engine power and smoothness across its entire lineup.
You can watch this video to learn more about the performance comparison between Acura and Lexus SUVs: 51sIndyAutoManYouTube · Feb 26, 2024
Acura's performance edge
- Sporty handling: Acura's SH-AWD is often highlighted for its sportier feel and ability to improve cornering stability and traction.
- Dynamic feel: Models like the TLX are often praised for their more responsive handling and driver-focused features.
- Specific model advantages: In some direct comparisons, Acura models have demonstrated quicker real-world feel and better handling than their Lexus counterparts, even with different specs on paper.
Lexus's performance edge
- Engine power: Lexus models often have more power and smoother acceleration, especially in their top-tier trims.
- Refined acceleration: The Lexus brand tends to prioritize a quieter, smoother experience across its lineup.
- Balanced performance: While Acura focuses on sportiness, Lexus balances performance with a more comfortable and luxurious ride quality.
Is Acura a fast car?
Yes, Acuras can be fast, especially the "Type S" models, which are engineered for performance. The TLX Type S sedan can go from 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in about 4.54.54.5 seconds, and the MDX Type S SUV reaches 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in around 5.55.55.5 seconds. For the most extreme performance, the older NSX supercar is significantly quicker.
This video shows a review of the TLX Type S, highlighting its performance and speed: 58sRoads UntraveledYouTube · Mar 16, 2024
- TLX Type S: The performance sedan model can achieve 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in about 4.54.54.5 seconds, thanks to its 355-horsepower 3.0L turbocharged V6 engine.
- MDX Type S: This high-performance SUV can accelerate from 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in approximately 5.55.55.5 seconds.
- Integra Type S: The Integra Type S offers a sporty driving experience with a 320-horsepower engine and a manual transmission.
- ZDX Type S: With nearly 500 horsepower, this all-electric SUV can accelerate from 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in under 5 seconds.
- NSX: The previous generation supercar is the fastest production model, reaching 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in around 3.13.13.1 seconds and a top speed of approximately 191191191 mph.
