In a historic move that underscores the global nature of modern performance, Zohari Cars is thrilled to report that Acura will officially export its Ohio-built Integra Type S to Japan. As the brand celebrates its 40th anniversary, this represents a "full circle" moment for the Integra—a nameplate that first launched Acura in America in 1986. Sales in Japan are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026, marking the first time an Acura-branded high-performance model will be sold in Honda's home market.

The Pride of Ohio: Marysville and Anna Engineering

The Integra Type S is built exclusively at the Marysville Auto Plant in Ohio, and its heart—the turbocharged 2.0-liter VTEC® engine—is produced at the Anna Engine Plant, also in Ohio. This K20C engine is the same powerhouse that drives the Civic Type R, which is also exported from Ohio to Japan. For the associates in Ohio, this move is a source of immense pride. Jun Jayaraman, senior vice president at Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, noted that exporting this "most powerful, best-performing Integra ever" takes that pride to a new level, allowing Japanese enthusiasts to experience the precision craftsmanship born in the American Midwest.

A Niche Icon with American Flavor

Interestingly, the Japanese-market Integra Type S will match U.S. market specifications, including its left-hand-drive (LHD) layout. While Japan is a right-hand-drive country, driving an LHD vehicle is often viewed as a prestige statement among Japanese enthusiasts and collectors. The package remains identical to the award-winning American version: 320 horsepower, a short-throw 6-speed manual with rev-matching, a helical limited-slip differential, and the innovative dual-axis front suspension designed to kill torque steer. Inside, it retains the 16-speaker ELS STUDIO 3D® audio and the 10.2-inch Acura Precision Cockpit™, bringing the full Acura experience to the streets of Tokyo and Osaka.

At Zohari Cars, we view this export as a testament to the "Precision Crafted Performance" that has made the Integra a top seller in its segment. By sending this American-built thriller back to its spiritual home, Honda is acknowledging that great engineering knows no borders. The Integra Type S is joined by the Alabama-built Honda Passport TrailSport in this historic export push, further strengthening the trade relationship between the two nations. Stay tuned as we track the reception of this "rowdy" American-built liftback in Japan later this year.