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HISTORY

A History of Acura Vehicles

From the Iconic Integra to the Future-Forward RSX

1980s 2000s 2010s 2020s

1986

A Stunning Debut

  • North America is introduced to its first Japanese luxury brand
  • Acura Integra brings Euro-style performance at an attractive price point
  • Integra boasts sporty design and performance with Honda reliability
  • At the same time, Acura’s cornerstone sedan, the Legend, set out to compete with the likes of Volvo, BMW and other premium European brands
  • The Legend’s 24-valve fuel injected V-6 engine was powerful and sophisticated...
  • The two offerings set the tone for Acura’s future reputation as a modern, dependable luxury brand
  • Acura Integra is named to Car and Driver magazine "10 Best Cars" list in 1987
  • Soon thereafter, Toyota and Nissan announce plans to establish their own luxury brands

1990

A Japanese Supercar? Yes!

  • Acura unveils a rumored new exotic sportscar
  • Christened the NSX – “New Sports eXperience”
  • Features lightweight aluminum construction and a mid-engine design
  • Introduces VTEC technology and titanium connecting rods, challenging European supercars with superior technology
  • Again, Acura challenges the convention that high performance and reliability are mutually exclusive

1997

Type R Revs Up the Excitement

  • Acura introduces its performance line, starting with Integra Type R
  • Features a high-revving, 195-hp engine
  • Helical limited-slip differential
  • Upgraded suspension and brakes
  • A 93-lb. weight reduction vs. standard Integra
  • Exclusive Championship White color (NH0)
  • Driven by enthusiasts on racetracks throughout the land
  • Became an icon for sports car enthusiasts

1997

We Make Contact

  • The Acura RL features an in-dash satellite-linked navigation system
  • Uses a combination of GPS and software to map out the best route
  • Also appearing in 1997 is CL, a two-door sport-luxury coupe – Acura's first model designed and engineered in the U.S. and manufactured in East Liberty, Ohio. 

2001

The Premium SUV

  • Acura launches the MDX, a luxury SUV with third-row seating
  • U.S.-designed, developed and engineered
  • Introduces Variable Torque Management® all-wheel drive
  • Achieves a ULEV rating
  • Popular among families seeking a premium driving experience
  • 2001 also marks the debut of the CL Type S, the first Type S model

2004

SH-AWD Intro

  • Acura launches a new-generation RL flagship sedan
  • Debuts Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)
  • First North American application of real-time traffic info system
  • First HandsFreeLink™ wireless telephone interface

2006

An Expanding Lineup

  • Acura launches the RDX
  • Combines SUV utility with sports sedan handling
  • Features Acura’s first turbocharged engine

2009

A First in Safety

  • Entire Acura lineup receives top safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS
  • The first time that an automobile nameplate has simultaneously earned top government and IIHS safety ratings for every vehicle

2012

Acura Puts on a Show

  • Acura debuts three new vehicles at the 2012 North American International Auto Show:
    • The all-new ILX compact sports sedan
    • The all-new RDX with a new V-6 engine
    • And, drumroll... the NSX Concept
  • Also in 2012, the Acura TL earns a top-level rating of GOOD in IIHS crash tests

2016

The Return

  • The NSX nameplate is revived after a decade-long hiatus
  • Hybrid powertrain combining electric motors and a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine
  • Maintains the legacy of performance while embracing modern technology
  • The Car Connection names the Acura NSX a “Best Performing Car” for 2019

2022

Another Icon Reborn

  • Acura announces the rebirth of the Integra
  • Yes, it has a manual transmission
  • Wins the “2023 North American Car of the Year” award
  • In 2024, Type S offers stunning, track-worthy power and precision
  • Appeals to a younger generation while honoring its sporty heritage

2025

Awards Season

  • • Acura was named Kelley Blue Book's 2025 "Best Value Luxury Brand" in their 2025 Consumer Choice Awards
  • 2025 Acura Integra and 2025 Acura MDX win IIHS “Top Safety Pick” award

2026

The Electric Future

  • Acura’s first all-Acura electric vehicle, the RSX, set to launch in 2026
  • Combines luxury, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology
  • Represents Acura’s vision for the future of mobility

Acura History

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