Honda's New Integra – Technology Meets Driving Excitement
sept 2001

Honda has redefined the popular Integra sports coupe with an all-new range for 2002. Two new models – featuring bigger engines with a new 'intelligent' version of VTEC – continue the Integra's sports heritage and spirit of driving pleasure.

A unique car which successfully combined sporting driving qualities with a roomy and practical interior, Integra has been reinvented for 2002 without losing the characteristics which made it popular. The engineers spearheaded these key areas for development – styling, performance, ride and handling, body construction, engine, safety and low emissions.

Honda also took the unusual step of developing a Type R version in parallel with the new model. The result is a sportier base model and a more refined range-topper that retains the race-bred driving experience synonymous with Honda's Type R badge.

The new Type R features a slick-shifting close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox, while the base VTi model gets the choice of a sequential-shift SportShift 5 speed automatic or a close-ratio 5-speed manual.

The heart of the new Integra is an all-new 2.0 litre i-VTEC LEV engine – the first of Honda's new-generation engines to be sold in New Zealand. i-VTEC combines Honda's innovative valve timing technology with VTC – Variable Timing Control – which continually adjusts camshaft phasing to provide linear engine performance throughout the rev range, low fuel consumption and minimal exhaust emissions.

Powering the Integra VTi is a 118kW (160bhp) 2.0 litre i-VTEC four-cylinder engine with peak power delivered at 6500rpm and 191Nm of torque at 4000rpm. A higher-output version of i-VTEC lifts the output of the Type R's engine to a stirring 147kW (200bhp) at 7400rpm.

A new body was designed to meet the demands of the high-performance powertrain. Boasting 116% greater torsional rigidity and 35% increased bending rigidity, the new Integra body enhances handling and ride as well as overall strength.

The chassis is completely new and includes new compact Control-Link strut-type front suspension, compact rear double wishbones and a quick-ratio power steering system with a high-mounted rack for agile, controlled handling and a comfortable ride. The Type R uses specially tuned suspension to advance the model's acclaimed at-the-limit responses. A torque-sensing limited slip differential delivers superior traction and reduced understeer.

Standard four wheel discs with anti-lock (larger front discs in the case of the Type R) combine with sporty 16 inch alloy wheels and low-profile tyres to provide the new Integra with impeccable handling and braking performance.

The Integra now joins Honda's growing list of LEV-certified vehicles. Apart from the advanced new i-VTEC engine technology, emissions are further reduced by turning the engine 180 degrees so the exhaust is positioned at the rear of the engine. The shorter distance between the engine and catalytic converter permits a more complete conversion of exhaust gases, and a unique 'e-shaped' dual exhaust manifold improves exhaust flow.

The new Integra is as safe as it is pleasant to drive. The body uses high-tensile steel and numerous computer-designed reinforcements to help it meet the highest international safety standards. Honda's world-renowned omnidirectional crash-testing facility has enabled the company to incorporate the very latest safety construction technology into the Integra's body shell.

Standard safety equipment across both models includes dual SRS airbags, ABS anti-lock brakes, three-point seatbelts with front pretensioners with load limiters. Pedestrian safety technology targets the prevention of lower body injuries with shock absorbing bumpers, bonnet and front guards.

Naturally, the Integra features a driver-oriented cockpit. A dome-shaped pod houses large, metallic-face dials with red illumination and 'zero-angle' needles to give the new car a high-tech, sporty feel. Body-hugging sports seats, a small three spoke steering wheel, climate-control air conditioning, 4-speaker stereo with CD tuner, remote central locking and a security alarm are all standard.

The Type R extends its racing theme with body-hugging suede Recaro seats, Momo steering wheel, aluminium pedals, footrest and gear knob, a high wing spoiler and body coloured side sills and chin spoiler.

Honda New Zealand Director Graeme Seymour said the new Integra offers cutting-edge technology, luxury features, advanced styling and a pure driving experience, either on the highway or around town at a price that meets Honda's Price Promise.

'Honda has advanced every aspect of Integra – the engine, upgraded equipment levels, exterior and interior design, its crash performance and build quality – and it is still a price leader amongst sports coupes' he said. 'Our new Integra VTi is introduced at a price of $34,500 with manual transmission. The 5- speed SportShift automatic is $36,500 and the high-performance Type R is $44,500.

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