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Staff Writers
22 May 2005
3 min read

You can't help but notice my "blaze orange metallic" body – its official colour – as I cruise by.

But the Honda Integra Type S is not just trendy.

The Type S is a standout from the moment you slide into its low, sleek body. After all, isn't that what the S stands for – slinky, sizzling, sexy?

Excuse me if I'm gushing, but that's the Integra down to its last lustrous nut and bolt. You're not left wanting – automatic climate control and power windows come standard, a CD/MP3 player, courtesy night lights, and front and side airbags for security.

Then there are cool halogen lamps, a rear spoiler and a large, electronic sunroof which makes this feel more like a sporty convertible.

Now if I was power hungry I would boast that it has six-speeds, but since I'm the one in control, I will merely ask: "Are you jealous yet?"

Down to statistics. Its four-cylinder two-litre engine is not one to chew through the fuel and I am quite amazed at how far the S goes without the gauge moving. Maybe it is the aerodynamics. This is a three-door hatch and while it may give the illusion of a cramped two-seater, the two main doors are lengthy structures that house a roomy space for four, although the two at the back may need to be closely acquainted. But that's not always a bad thing.

It is luxurious and very comfortable. It's all-black, leather-trimmed interior is swanky and well appointed. Instrumentation is racy, with a silver finish.

At night, it's even better – the instruments fire up in blood red, which is very sexy.

The S has plenty of power. In fact, I find it is begging for more as the engine purrs to go faster. But don't worry. There are ABS brakes to slow the 17in alloys down. Gear changes are silky and this Honda has a controlled feel – there's no sliding around or squealing of tyres.

Forget the usual hard sports suspension (it has strut and double wishbone suspension) – this is better than I expected, softer but still secure on the road.

The only thing I can fault is the visibility in the back corners.

Like many sporty numbers, it is limited because of the car's shape. Luckily, it has big side mirrors.

The S makes you feel special ... it spoils you.

Love it or leave it

Honda Integra Type S

Price: $42,990 (man)

Love it 

ITS classy good looks.

The stereo, with its colour display, keeps me entranced.

Secret compartments to hide precious cargo.

Leave it

WHEN you're wearing high heels, releasing the clutch can become a health hazard – it's quite low inside.

Releasing the handbrake is also awkward when sitting forward in the bucket seat.

Honda Integra 2005: Type S

Engine Type Inline 4, 2.0L
Fuel Type Premium Unleaded Petrol
Fuel Efficiency 9.5L/100km (combined)
Seating 4
Price From $6,710 - $9,460
Staff Writers
The CarsGuide team of car experts is made up of a diverse array of journalists, with combined experience that well and truly exceeds a century. We live with the cars we test, weaving them into our family lives to highlight any strenghts and weaknesses to help you make the right choice when buying a new or used car. We also specialise in adventure to help you get off the beaten track and into the great outdoors, along with utes and commercial vehicles, performance cars and motorsport to cover all ends of the automotive spectrum. Tune in for our weekly podcast to get to know the personalities behind the team, or click on a byline to learn more about any of our authors.
About Author
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