*Disclosure: The Acura driving experience was provided to me for testing purposes and editorial consideration. All opinions are 100% my own*
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of exploring Atlanta, Georgia with my Acura friends and it was a blast.
We danced to the magnificent sounds of Trombone Shorty, got hyped with Big Freedia, hung out in Tree Sound Studios w/Elliott Scheiner, took selfies with the legendary Joe Bonamassa, who is now invited to ALL the family barbeques and drove Acura’s full line of Precision Crafted Performance vehicles. All of which was done in a time span of 48-hour.
48 Hours of Music and Cars with Acura…
As you can tell, we were all definitely on our play/drive now and sleep later vibes.
My Acura Driving Experience
Acura’s full line consists of the MDX Type S, TLX Type S, NSX Type S, the recently refreshed RDX and the all-new Integra. During my Acura driving experience, I tested five amazing vehicles. However, I will only be discussing my top three favorites.
Check them out below…
1. 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec
The Premium Sport Crossover recently received a face-lift and is back and better than ever.
I am very impressed by the compact SUVs aggressive design, smooth drive, nibble handling and technology filled cabin. Additionally, the Apex Blue Pearl complimented the vehicle’s sharp lines and exclusive 20-in Shark Gray wheel design quite well, giving it an even more bold and confident look.
Brief Overview: 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec Technology Price/Specs/Features:
The 2022 RDX is not offered in traditional trim levels, but rather comes in a single base level with five option packages, which include: Technology, A-Spec Technology, Advance, A-Spec Advance and PMC Edition.
- Starting MSRP:
- Standard Base Model: $40,600.00
- A-Spec Technology (Model Tested): $48,450.00
- Engine:
- 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged with 272 horsepower and 280 pounds of torque
- Transmission:
- 10-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift paddle shifters
- MPG (A-Spec Technology):
- 21 city/26 hwy/23 combined
- Drivetrain:
- FWD (Standard)
- SH-AWD = Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (Available)
- Note: The Advance packages and the PMC edition come standard with AWD
- A-Spec Technology Key Features:
- Jewel Eye LED headlights
- Panoramic moonroof
- Seats 5
- Power lift tailgate
- 4 Integrated dynamics system modes:
- Normal
- Comfort
- Snow
- Sport
- 10.2-inch Digital Instrument Cluster
- 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback
- Acura navigation system with 3D view
- AcuraWatch advanced safety & driver assist technology
- 10.2-inch HD dual-content center display
- Note: This display is not touchscreen. Instead, you can manage menus, maps and directions, through a tappable, two-zone touchpad
- ELS Studio 3D, 16-speaker, premium audio system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Ambient lighting
- Alexa
- SiriusXM satellite radio
*100k +/- Miles No Scheduled Tune-Ups*
2. 2023 Integra A-Spec – 6-Speed Manual
After more than a decade the Acura Integra returns. The original hit the newly minted Acura dealerships in 1986, only one year after the vehicle launched in Japan. At that time, it was available in both coupe and sedan body styles. However, the 2023 model comes in sedan only.
On March 10, 2022, the iconic nameplate (2023) became available for order, and to no surprise the first 500 units, which included the non-fungible token (NFT) sold out extremely fast.
Not long after, Andrew Quillin from Acura’s public relations Team announced that more than 70% of all those reservations were the six-speed manual transmission, versus the 50% percent average from 1986 – 2001. In my opinion, that is extremely cool. #SaveTheManual!
When I found out that the fifth-gen model would be available to test during the drive experience, I was more than thrilled.
Now I must admit, although I have driven several 6-speed transmission models, I still find myself a bit intimidated when getting behind the wheel of a model that I’ve never experienced. Trust and believe this go around was no different. However, that feeling left fairly quickly. After I got out of my head, I found that the affordable hatchback sedan is not only gorgeous inside and out but was extremely easy to handle and incredibly fun to drive.
*Note: The holders of the reservations get a NFT that will be upgraded once the vehicle is delivered. *
Brief Overview: 2023 Integra A-Spec w/Technology 6MT Price/Specs/Features:
The 2023 Integra comes in three trim levels: A-Spec, A-Spec w/Technology CVT, A-Spec w/Technology 6MT.
- Starting MSRP:
- Standard Base Model: $30,800.00
- 6-speed manual w/A-Spec Technology (Model Tested): $35,800.00
- Engine:
- 1.5-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged with 200 horsepower and 192 pounds of torque
- Transmission:
- 6-speed manual transmission with Rev Match Control
- MPG (6-speed manual w/A-Spec Technology):
- 26 city/36 hwy/30 combined
- Drivetrain:
- FWD
- A-Spec w/Technology 6MT Key Features:
- Jewel Eye LED headlights
- Seats 5
- 9-inch touchscreen,
- The larger touchscreen offered with the technology package only. The 7-inch comes standard
- 12-way power-adjustable front seats with power-adjustable lumbar support and adaptive suspension dampers.
- Front 4-way power passenger’s seat
- Interior LED ambient lighting
- AcuraWatch advanced safety & driver assist technology
- 10.2-inch Digital Instrument Cluster
- AcuraLink
- Note: This app lets you connect to your latest Acura model from almost anywhere at the touch of a button from smartphone, tablet, or computer.
- ELS Studio 3D, 16-speaker, premium audio system
- Heads up display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration
- Alexa
- Wireless charging pad
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- 3-Mode Integrated Dynamic System (IDS)
- Normal
- Comfort
- Sport
*All 2023 Acura models come with complimentary new Acura Maintenance Program offering select factory-scheduled service. *
3. 2021 NSX Type-S Sport Hybrid
The iconic and extremely striking 2021 NSX Type-S is something special! It is definitely my top pick of the day, week and year.
This high-performance sports car is aggressive, sophisticated, incredibly responsive and a joy to drive. My partner and I had the time of our lives driving it around ATL.
One thing I noticed while behind the wheel of the supercar is its versatility and comfortability making it great for daily use. It is certainly a cool option for singles, couples, and for those with a family looking for a very cool and fun second car.
Brief Overview: 2021 NSX SH-AWD Sport Hybrid Price/Specs/Features:
The 2021 NSX comes in 1 body type, coupe, and is available in only 1 trim level: SH-AWD Sport Hybrid.
- Starting MSRP:
- Standard Base Model: $157,500.00
- Engine:
- 3.5L Hybrid Twin Turbo V6 with 573 horsepower and 476 pounds of torque
- Transmission:
- 9-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
- MPG:
- 21 city/22 highway/21 combined
- Drivetrain:
- AWD
- Type S Key Features:
- 7-inch touchscreen multimedia system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity
- 0 to 60: 2.9 secs
- Two Seater
- Rearview camera
- Parking sensors
- Emergency brake assist
- 4-way power lumbar seats
- Navigation
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Leather and simulated-suede upholstery
- Sport Bucket seats
- Heated seats for those who live in a colder climate
- Carbon-ceramic brakes
- Exterior and interior carbon-fiber accents
- Full-leather upholstery
- Simulated-suede headliner
2022 NSX Type-S – Key Information
- The 2022 NSX Type-S debuted August 12, 2021, during Monterey Car Week.
- Acura is ending production of the NSX after the 2022 model year.
- There is only 350 2022 NSX Type-S available globally. 300 of those were allocated to the US, which was reserved as soon as pre-orders opened last August.
- Per the Acura website, all orders are pending. Contact your local dealer to get on the waitlist.
This Acura driving experience was totally epic. My colleagues and I had a chance to experience how they are changing the game by using music to capture a more youthful and diverse audience.
What are your thoughts on the brands way of capturing a different audience? And also, of their full line-up?? Inquiring minds would love to know.
Additionally, to learn more their new line, visit their website.
Have A Happy Healthy and Remember to Always…Stay Sassy!
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