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Type S: Past, Present & Future

Jun 9, 2021

If you can’t wait for the 2021 Acura TLX Type S to arrive at Scanlon Acura in Fort Myers, Florida, then your wait is almost up!

Model Shown: 2021 TLX Type S

Performance and precision. Those are the core values of the Acura Type S. The Type S is a sports variant that offers the best of both worlds. Type S delivers a dynamic driving experience with more power, improved handling, and stronger braking, all without sacrificing creature comforts and serving as a daily driver. After more than a decade, the Acura Type S is finally making its triumphant return!

The 2021 Acura Type S is set to go on sale on June 23! But there’s more!

To be a Type S, the vehicle’s “Stop. Go and Turn” performance must be better than standard cars. Add in more horsepower and torque and you’ve got Acura’s best-performing sedan yet.

What’s so special about a Type S? Let’s look at the history of the iconic vehicles that have worn the Type S badge. From 2001 through 2008, Type S models played a big role in Acura’s performance lineup.

The concept for Type S performance models began with the 1997 NSX Type S in Japan, which led Honda R&D engineers in America to create a prototype coupe called the AC-R.

Before we get caught up in history (see the entire history below), let’s catch you up on the new generation of Type S.

Powered by the new Type S Turbo V6, the TLX Type S boasts 355-horsepower, 354-lb.-ft. of torque, a quick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, standard torque-vectoring Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (a Type S first), a sport tuned suspension and Brembo® front brakes.?The all-new 2021 Acura TLX Type S is available in two variations.

The TLX Type S features 20-inch multi-spoke wheels with Pirelli Cinturato P7 all-Season tires. Those seeking even more performance can opt for the TLX Type S with High Performance Wheel and Tire Package, which brings NSX-inspired split 5-spoke wheels, reducing unsprung mass by more than 21 lbs., and 255-series Pirelli P-Zero summer tires.

If you’re shopping for an all-new 2021 Acura TLX Type S, Scanlon Acura is your Acura dealership in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers Beach and all of Southwest Florida for new and used Acura vehicles.

We told you there was more! Later this year the 2022 Acura MDX Type S will be revealed. It’ll be the first Acura SUV to ever wear the Type S badge. The MDX Type S will be powered by the 355-horsepower Type S Turbo V6, and will also feature standard SH-AWD®. More details about the MDX Type S will be available closer to its launch.?More information on the 2022 MDX.

To build and price your desired configuration, visit Acura.com/Type-S

Acura Type S Model History

• 2001-2003 Acura 3.2CL Type S: The Type S performance line debuted in North America with the 2001 3.2CL Type S. The high-performance coupe featured a 3.2-liter V6 engine with 260 horsepower (upgraded from the standard CL’s 225 hp), a 5-speed automatic with a manual shift function, quicker steering, 17-inch wheels and tires and a sport-tuned suspension. In its final model year, a 6-speed manual transmission was available. ?More information on the 2001 Acura 3.2CL Type S.
• 2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL Type S: Debuting a year after the coupe, the 3.2TL Type S sedan featured the same performance-tuned 3.2-liter engine including its innovative dual-stage induction system, a 5-speed automatic with a manual shift function, and similar suspension, wheel and tire upgrades.?More information on the 2002 Acura 3.2TL Type S.
• 2002-2006 Acura RSX Type S: The RSX Type S also joined the family in 2002, powered by a new 2.0-liter?i-VTEC® 4-cylinder with 200 horsepower (upgraded from the standard RSX’s 160 hp) connected exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission. In 2005, the RSX Type S received a power boost to 210 horsepower, with styling changes that included a larger eye-catching rear wing.?More information on the 2002 Acura RSX Type S.
• 2007-2008 Acura TL Type S: The third-generation Acura TL rejoined the Type S lineup in 2007 powered by a 3.5-liter V6 making 286 horsepower (upgraded from the standard TL’s 3.2-liter V6 with 258 hp). A 6-speed manual transmission, 4-piston Brembo brakes, sport suspension, upgraded wheels and tires and distinctive quad exhaust were all standard.?More information on the 2007 Acura TL Type S.