Rekindling Performance Heritage: The 2019 Acura Type S Concept
In the whirlwind of Monterey Car Week, a notable presence was the introduction of the Acura Type S Concept, a harbinger of the return of Type S performance variants. Not just a display of automotive innovation, this concept also served as a preview of the upcoming second-generation TLX Type S's character.
A New Dawn for Type S
The Type S Concept marks Acura's serious commitment to re-establishing its performance credentials. The last decade saw the brand's performance variants fall into a hiatus, but the Type S Concept is a solid reassurance of their return. The concept vehicle carries an embodiment of Acura's Precision Crafted Performance ethos, suggesting that the upcoming TLX Type S would inherit much of its character.
The Aesthetics of Performance
Acura's design team aimed to create a powerful and expressive silhouette that would be an emblem of Acura performance. The Type S Concept is endowed with a wide track and low stance, underlined by an expansive hood that creates a dynamic form. This form, with its roots in the Acura Precision Concept, is a manifestation of clean, cohesive design while projecting an aura of power.
Delving Into The Details
The Type S Concept showcases several design elements that will likely be seen in upcoming Acura models. Among these are the next-generation, four-lamp Jewel Eye LED headlights, an open-surface Diamond Pentagon grille, and "Chicane" daytime running lights and taillights, all of which mirror the Acura ARX-05 Daytona Prototype race car.
The front fascia is a blend of aesthetics and function, with large center and side intakes designed to cool a high-performance engine and brake package. Moving to the side profile, it evokes a sense of both power and elegance. Every surface seems to shift and flow as it recedes towards the rear, accentuating the concept's wide track.
Revitalizing the Blue Heritage
Wrapped in a bespoke "Double Apex Blue Pearl" paint, the Type S Concept pays a stylish homage to the blue Type S heritage models. This paint, laced with Nano pigments, imparts a sense of motion and enhances the vehicle's luster and brilliance, mirroring the spirit of the revitalized Type S lineage.
The Path Forward
The introduction of the Type S Concept signifies a new chapter in Acura's journey. The brand seems keen on leveraging its legacy and heritage to forge a future that is rooted in performance. With the second-generation TLX Type S expected to be the first of many Type S models to come, Acura appears to be steering its course back to its original ethos of Precision Crafted Performance.
Final Thoughts
The unveiling of the Acura Type S Concept at Monterey Car Week was more than just a display of a new vehicle. It was a statement of intent. Acura seems to be reaffirming its commitment to its performance roots, a move that will no doubt resonate with purists and fans of the brand. As we await the launch of the second-generation TLX Type S, the Type S Concept gives us a glimpse into a promising future for Acura's performance variants.
-Ed
2019 Acura Type S Concept
