Acura Celebrates Type S Heritage in New Video as 2021 TLX Type S Nears Market Introduction

  • New video from Acura revisits history of Acura Type S models
  • 2021 Acura TLX Type S signals return of high-performance brand to Acura showrooms
  • 2022 MDX Type S will be the first Acura SUV to wear the Type S badge

With Type S performance models set to return to the Acura lineup, a new video released today celebrates the history of Type S and the iconic vehicles that have worn the high-performance badge.


From 2001 through 2010, Type S set the standard for Acura performance in North America, offering a dynamic driving experience with more power, improved handling, and stronger braking. Those high-performance variants of the Acura CL, TL, RSX and CSX continue to hold a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts.

This year Type S returns with the 2021 TLX Type S, arriving in showrooms this spring, with the upcoming MDX Type S – the first SUV to wear the Type S badge – to follow later this year. The production embodiment of the Type S Concept, the 2021 TLX Type S delivers on Acura’s promise of Precision Crafted Performance. Powered by the Acura-exclusive 355-horsepower Type S Turbo V6 and with standard Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD®), it’s the quickest, most powerful, and best handling Type S ever.

Acura Type S Model History

2001-2003 Acura 3.2CL Type S:

The Type S performance line debuted with the 2001 Acura 3.2CL Type S. The high-performance coupe featured a 3.2-litre 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. For more information on the 2001 Acura 3.2CL Type S click here.

2002-2003 Acura 3.2TL Type S:

Debuting a year after the 3.2CL Type S, the 3.2TL Type S high-performance sedan featured the same performance-tuned engine, 5-speed automatic with a manual shift function, and similar suspension, wheel and tire upgrades. For more information on the 2002 Acura 3.2TL Type S click here.

2002-2006 Acura RSX Type S:

The RSX Type S also joined the family in 2002, powered by a new 2.0-litre 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. For more information on the 2002 Acura RSX Type S click here.

2007-2008 Acura TL Type S:

The third-generation Acura TL rejoined the Type S lineup in 2007 powered by a 3.5-litre V6 making 286 horsepower (upgraded from the standard TL’s 3.2-litre V6 with 258 hp). A 6-speed manual transmission, 4-piston Brembo brakes, sport suspension, upgraded wheels and distinctive quad exhaust were all standard. For more information on the 2007 Acura TL Type S click here.

2007-2010 Acura CSX Type S:

Built exclusively for the Canadian market at Honda of Canada Mfg. in Alliston, Ontario was the Type S variant of the CSX. This model debuted in 2007 consisting of a 2.0 litre I4, 197 horsepower, i-VTEC engine with a 6-speed manual transmission. It featured stiffer springs, firmer damping and thicker stabilizer bars and employed electronic stability control. Other amenities included 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, rear wing spoiler with integrated LED brake light, fog lights, upgraded audio system, Bluetooth and USB connections. For more information on the 2007 Acura CSX Type S click here.

A New Generation of Type S

2021 Acura TLX Type S:

Type S returns to Acura showrooms with the all-new TLX Type S, the most powerful, quickest, and best handling Type S ever. Powered by the new Type S Turbo V6, the TLX Type S boasts 355-horsepower, an upgraded 10-speed automatic transmission, SH-AWD®, a sport tuned suspension and Brembo® brakes. For more information on the 2021 Acura TLX Type S click here.

2022 Acura MDX Type S:

The 2022 MDX Type S will be the first SUV to ever wear the Type S badge. Building on the critically acclaimed and all-new fourth generation MDX, Acura’s new flagship, the MDX Type S will be powered by the 355 hp Type S Turbo V6 and will also feature standard SH-AWD®. For more information on the 2022 Acura MDX click here. More details about the MDX Type S will be available closer to its on-sale date.

About Acura Canada
Acura is the luxury-performance division of Honda Canada Inc. and is a leading automotive luxury nameplate that delivers Precision Crafted Performance, an original approach to technology and design that creates a new driving experience. The Acura lineup features five distinctive models – the TLX performance luxury sedan, the ILX sport sedan, the 5-passenger RDX luxury crossover SUV, and the Acura MDX seven-passenger luxury SUV. Acura launched its next-generation, electrified NSX supercar as a new and pinnacle expression of Acura Precision Crafted Performance. Acura celebrated its 30th anniversary in Canada in February 2017 and has grown to include over 50 locations in its dealer network across the country. For more information, please visit www.acura.ca.


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