Which Acura Integras have VTEC?
VTEC is available on select Acura Integras, notably the late-1990s DC2 performance variants and the modern 2023–present model that uses i-VTEC. Base, non-VTEC Integras exist as well. This article breaks down where VTEC appears in the Integra lineup.
VTEC-equipped Integras are not universal across every generation or trim. In the United States, the VTEC-equipped DC2 models were the performance-focused GS-R, GSR, and the top-tier Type R, all using 1.8-liter VTEC engines. In 2023, Acura revived the Integra with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that employs i-VTEC technology. Below is a concise guide to where VTEC shows up in the Integra family and what to expect from each model.
DC2-era VTEC Integras (late 1990s to early 2000s)
The DC2 generation introduced VTEC to the Integra lineup in performance-focused trims. These are the models most commonly associated with VTEC in the United States.
Note: Engine codes and outputs can vary slightly by market, but the following are representative of the US market.
- Integra GS-R (DC2) — 1.8L DOHC VTEC engine (B18C1), approximately 170 hp
- Integra GSR (DC2) — 1.8L DOHC VTEC engine (B18C1), approximately 170 hp
- Integra Type R (DC2) — 1.8L DOHC VTEC engine (B18C5), approximately 195–200 hp
These variants demonstrate how VTEC was used to boost high-rev performance within the Integra chassis, with the Type R representing the pinnacle of the DC2 lineup.
Modern Integra with i-VTEC (2023–present)
Acura revived the Integra for the 2023 model year with a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four that uses Honda’s i-VTEC technology. This latest Integra is a distinct generation but continues the brand’s tradition of pairing VTEC with a sporty, practical compact car.
Key specifications for the current Integra include a turbocharged 1.5L engine delivering around 200 horsepower and about 192 lb-ft of torque, paired with a choice of a 6-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The i-VTEC system on this engine manages variable valve timing and lift to balance performance with efficiency.
- Engine: 1.5L turbocharged inline-four with i-VTEC (Earth Dreams)
- Power: ~200 hp
- Torque: ~192 lb-ft
- Transmissions: 6-speed manual or CVT
The modern Integra demonstrates how VTEC technologies have evolved, integrating variable timing and lift control with turbocharging to deliver modern-day efficiency and performance.
Summary
In short, VTEC appears on select Acura Integras as part of performance-focused generations and, more recently, the revived 2023–present model with i-VTEC. Base, non-VTEC Integras exist, but the historically VTEC-equipped lineup centers on the DC2 GS-R, GSR, and Type R, plus the contemporary turbocharged Integra that uses i-VTEC.
Which is faster, Integra Type S or TLX Type S?
2024 TLX Type S vs. Integra Type S: Performance
- 2024 Acura TLX Type S Performance. Engine: 3.0L V6 turbo. Horsepower: 355. 354 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 time: 4.6 seconds (est.)
- 2024 Acura Integra Type S Performance. Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder inline turbo. Horsepower: 320. 310 lb-ft of torque. 0-60 time: 5.2 seconds (est.)
Which Acuras have VTEC?
Acuras that have VTEC include the Integra, RDX, TLX, and older models like the TL and the original RDX. Many modern Acuras use a VTEC Turbo engine, while older models often feature a VTEC V6 or a turbocharged 2.3-liter VTEC engine.
Modern VTEC models
- Integra: Both the standard 1.5L VTEC Turbo engine and the high-performance 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine in the Type S model are equipped with VTEC.
- RDX: The RDX is powered by a 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine.
- TLX: The TLX uses a 2.0L VTEC Turbo engine.
Older VTEC models
- TL: The TL featured a 3.5L V6 with VTEC.
- Original RDX: The first generation RDX (2007) was equipped with a turbocharged 2.3-liter 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC four-cylinder engine.
Does the Acura Integra have VTEC?
In standard configurations, the Acura Integra is powered by a potent VTEC®-enhanced DOHC 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque.
What acuras has VTEC used?
The technology debuted in the 200-hp Acura RSX Type S (K20A2), and the 160-hp Acura RSX and Honda Civic Si (K20A3). Both engines use the cam-switching feature of the original VTEC engines, however, the K20A3 use it solely on the intake cam, while the K20A2 use it on both intake and exhaust cams.
