What If Honda Transformed the New Prelude into a Contemporary Integra Type R? | Carscoops

      An Integra like this one, equipped with the Civic Type R’s engine, would be nearly ideal, but it's unlikely to ever become a reality.

      5 hours ago

      By Brad Anderson

      An artist has reimagined the Prelude as a contemporary Integra, drawing on design elements from the DC2.

      The redesign includes updated headlights, taillights, and grille styling.

      Unfortunately, a modern version of the DC2 Integra seems improbable to go into production.

      Before Acura reintroduced the Integra nameplate in 2022 as a somewhat upscale compact five-door hatchback, designer Jordan Rubinstein-Towler envisioned how a next-generation model could look, inspired by the legendary DC2 generation. The actual production model that resulted has its merits, but it diverges significantly from the essence of its forerunners.

      Returning to Its Coupe Origins

      A similar statement can be made about the new Prelude. The original models were lauded for their precise front-wheel-drive performance, high-revving four-cylinder engines, available four-wheel steering, and manual transmissions. In contrast, the newest version adopts a more efficient, but less thrilling hybrid powertrain from the Civic and entirely omits a conventional manual.

      Nonetheless, the same designer responsible for the remarkable 2021 Integra renderings has used the Prelude as inspiration for his latest concept, reimagining it as the Integra that enthusiasts might have wished for.

      We believe most car enthusiasts would prefer a Honda that carries the Integra name to honor the original legacy, and, unlike the current five-door model from Acura, this rendering reflects that vision. Naturally, if something like this were to come to life, it would likely bear an Acura badge. Nevertheless, it maintains the overall form of the new Prelude while refining it, arguably enhancing its appeal.

      Illustrations by Jordan Rubinstein-Towler

      The modifications begin at the front. The unusually-shaped headlights of the Prelude have been replaced with simpler units that, in our opinion, look significantly better. Additionally, the peculiar black strip connecting the lights has been eliminated, resulting in a more polished design. The grille has also been modified, now appearing slightly taller and narrower.

      What Else Makes This Integra Unique?

      The most significant changes have been made at the rear. Similar to many new vehicles on the market, the Prelude features straightforward LED taillights visually connected by a light bar in a style reminiscent of the Porsche 911.

      Jordan Rubinstein-Towler has substituted this configuration with sleeker taillights inspired by the DC2 Integra while also replacing the blacked-out rear bumper with body-colored panels and adding a small exhaust mounted at the center.

      Regrettably, there has been no indication from Honda or Acura of a desire to return the Integra to its roots, suggesting that this creation will likely remain a digital concept. Still, one can only hope for a future where a vehicle like this could enter production, possibly featuring the Civic Type R’s 315-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with a smooth six-speed manual transmission.

      Illustrations by Jordan Rubinstein-Towler