Acura Integra

2001 Acura Integra -- Introduction

As the entry-level Acura, the Integra embodies all the virtues that have established Acura as one of the leading luxury import brands in the U.S. market. It features superb road manners and excellent handling, an advanced powertrain, an aerodynamic exterior shape and a comfortable, ergonomic cockpit designed to make driving enjoyable and safe. The Integra, like all Acura automobiles, is dedicated to the proposition that driving is its own reward.

CONCEPTS AND GOALS
The Integra Sports Coupe and Sports Sedan were designed to achieve:
+ Spirited engine performance, with excellent acceleration, sporty, free-revving response and top-level smoothness and flexibility
+ Crisp, precise handling with excellent driver feedback and steering response
+ Distinctive, aerodynamic styling with high efficiency and low wind noise
+ A rigid structure for accurate handling response, long-term durability, excellent corrosion protection and optimum occupant safety
+ An intimate, highly ergonomic driving environment

OVERVIEW
The third-generation Acura Integra (introduced in 1994) features a number of technological innovations that enhance performance and handling and provide high levels of safety, durability, efficiency, comfort and ride quality. The Integra is available as a Sports Coupe or Sports Sedan. For 2001 the Sports Coupe and Sports Sedan come in three trim levels &emdash; LS, GS and GS-R. The ultra-high performance Integra Type R Sports Coupe also returns for 2001, and is discussed in detail in its own section.

The Integra has evolved and matured in its three generations. The Integra offers a comprehensive list of standard luxury, comfort and safety features. It features a standard driver's and front passenger's air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in all models. Additionally, features such as an AM/FM/CD six-speaker audio system, a power moon roof, windows, door mirrors and locks, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and a lumbar/height/tilt adjustment for the driver's seat are all standard equipment.

Key performance features of the Integra include:
+ 140-hp, 1.8-liter, 16-valve, DOHC, 4-cylinder engine (LS and GS)
+ 170-hp, 1.8-liter, 16-valve, DOHC, VTEC 4-cylinder engine (GS-R)
+ 5-speed manual or an optional electronically controlled, 4-speed automatic transmission with the sophisticated Grade Logic Control System (LS and GS)
+ Close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission (GS-R)
+ Four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension
+ Four-wheel disc brakes
+ Variable power-assisted steering with rotary-valve steering gear

Key safety features of the Integra include:
+ Standard driver's and front passenger's air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) on all models
+ Standard Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
+ 3-point outboard seat belts
+ Projector beam headlights
+ Side-impact door-protection beams
+ Side-intrusion shoulder pads

Acura Integra

Acura Debuts Second-Generation Integra 3-Door and 4-Door Sports Sedans

The Acura Division of American Honda introduced earlier this year the 1990 second-generation Integra sports sedans. The Integra line includes 3-door hatchback and all-new 4-door sedan body styles, as well as a new GS trim level for each.

The 1990 Integra has a new 1.8-liter DOHC fuel-injected engine, which produces 130 horsepower, 4-wheel double-wishbone suspension, a new, speed-sensitive variable-assist power steering system, and ergonomically designed interiors and controls. The new GS model features an Anti-Lock Braking (ALB) system -- a feature rarely found on automobiles in this price class.

The distinctive, wedge-shaped Integras were designed using the latest Computer-Aided Design (CAD) techniques and extensive wind tunnel testing to achieve rigid body structures and excellent aerodynamics. The 3-door achieves a coefficient of drag rating of 0.32, while the 4-door sedan is rated at 0.34.

Design features include slim roof pillars and sashless doors, for a contemporary "hardtop" look. The extensive use of glass results in over 320 degrees of outward visibility for the driver.

Powering the 1990 Integra is a new, 4-cylinder engine that benefits from technology developed through Honda Research and Development's championship-winning Formula 1 racing program. The all-aluminum engine displaces 1834 cc's (1.8 liters) and has dual overhead camshafts, 4-valves-per-cylinder and Programmed Fuel Injection. It develops 130 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 121 lbs.-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm.

The combustion chambers are a pentroof design and have centrally-located spark plugs for optimum flame propagation and thorough combustion. The 4-valve-per-cylinder configuration, combined with careful tuning of the intake and exhaust systems increases torque, especially in low and mid-range rpm. A 5-speed manual is standard equipment and features larger synchromesh gears for first and second gears, to better handle the engine's increased torque. A short throw shift lever provides crisp, precise feel.

An electronically-controlled 4-speed automatic transmission with driver-selectable sport mode is also available. Borrowing technology from the Acura Legend, this sport mode allows the transmission to shift at higher rpm points for more spirited driving.

The second-generation Integra utilizes a 4-wheel fully independent double-wishbone suspension. Handling and comfort are enhanced by front and rear stabilizer bars, new front nitrogen gas-pressurized shock absorbers and progressive-rate rear springs.

The rack-and-pinion steering employs a new, electronic, speed-sensitive variable power-assist system that provides a more linear transition between assist levels for more precise and responsive steering feel.

Braking is accomplished with standard 4-wheel disc brakes. Integra GS models include a new Anti-Lock Braking (ALB) system which uses sensors at each wheel to detect impending lockup. Once detected, the ALB system modulates hydraulic pressure to allow the wheels to continue rotating *ith no loss of braking power, while maintaining steering control.

Inside the new Integra is an ergonomically engineered interior. The instrument panel has been contoured into a wing shape which wraps slightly around the driver. Instrumentation is analog, with white-on-black dials. An adjustable steering column is standard on all Integra models, as is a digital quartz clock and a low-fuel warning light. Utility and cargo-carrying versatility are retained as both the 3- and 4-door sedans feature a 60/40 split rear seatback with access through to the large trunk area.

The front bucket seats of the new Integra have been designed for comfort and support. LS models feature a driver's adjustable lumbar support and GS models add adjustable side bolsters.

All Integra models are equipped with 2-point motorized passive front restraint system with an active lap belt and padded knee bolsters under the instrument panel. Outboard rear passengers are provided with 3-point shoulder and lap belts. In addition, all 4-door models are equipped with childproof rear door locks.

All Acura automobiles are covered by a 3-year, 36,000-mile limited warranty.