As we’ve seen in the past with shows like Initial D, anime and Japanese car culture can often go hand-in-hand. But as the times change, these car-centric shows need to feature the latest representation of the culture. That’s exactly why Acura will have the all-new Integra Type S as the star of the show in their short-form anime series “Chiaki’s Journey”.
The automaker’s original anime began back in 2022 as a fun way to promote their budding Type S lineup, and now, the second season of the show debuts today at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. The season will feature vehicles such as the 1990s RealTime Racing Integra Type R as a nod to the Integra’s racing heritage, with the new Integra Type S making its grand appearance in the final of the season’s four episodes as a Pikes Peak race car.
Read More: 2024 Acura Integra Type S Is A Civic Type R Sedan With 320 HP
To coincide with this, Acura will be bringing an actual race-prepped Integra Type S to this year’s Pikes Peak hillclimb, which will take place on June 25. With any luck, the car will look like the one from the anime series with its unique decals, gold wheels, and aggressive hillclimb aero. Additionally, at Long Beach this weekend, they’ll have a full-scale replica of the character Uncle Noboru’s garage with the Integra Type S on display, as well as anime-style wraps for the Acuras pacing and competing in the IMSA race.
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With 320 hp (324 PS / 239 kW) and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) on tap, the Integra Type S is a proper hot compact, outdoing even its Civic Type R sibling by 5 hp (5 PS / 4 kW). In typical Integra fashion, the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine sends all its power to the front wheels, and to keep the enthusiasts happy, is offered exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox. The car also features four-piston Brembo brakes and adaptive dampers to ensure it handles corners as well as it looks.