Integra ups the ante

THESE are the first pictures released by Honda of the new generation Integra Type R, due here around September.

The next generation car comes with a new all-alloy 2.0-litre DOHC LEV engine that cranks out either 149kW or 162kW of power, up from the 141kW produced by the existing 1.8-litre engine.

The new powerplant features i-VTEC technology with variable timing control (VTC) and is matched to a new close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission.

This should help answer criticisms levelled by some at the current model, which lacks a sixth cog.

Brembo brakes, Recaro seats, Momo steering wheel, 16-inch alloy wheels and a huge rear wing are also part of the package.

There is no official word on pricing, but the strength of the yen against the Aussie dollar means the Type R may rise from $40,990 to around $43,000. The entry-level model is expected to cost about $38,000.

The "cooking" version will also get a new 2.0-litre engine, producing 119kW of power and 191Nm of torque, which represent increases of 12kW and 19Nm over the current Integra GSi's 1.8-litre engine.

Power is sent to the front wheels by either a five-speed manual transmission or a new five-speed sequential automatic transmission.

Honda claims the performance figures from the new engines are backed by fuel efficiency and emissions gains.

The upgraded drivetrains will be joined by a variable-assistance rack and pinion steering system and a newly designed Control Link MacPherson strut front suspension. At the rear, the Integra features a new compact double wishbone set-up.

The Type R will also benefit from firmer springs and dampers and a larger front anti-roll bar to give it sharper responses.

Standard equipment extends to climate control, remote central locking, electric windows and an in-dash CD player. The Type R will get a Bose sound system with a six-disc CD player and additional sub-woofer.

Safety features include dual front airbags, side impact airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners.

The aggressively styled coupe was unveiled by Honda's Acura luxury car division at the recent New York International Auto Show, after it was first shown in prototype form at the Detroit Motor Show in January.

The release of the fourth generation Integra finally spells the end for the existing model, which dates back to 1993.