Acura Aims to Conquer Pikes Peak with Integra Type S and Olympian Pace Driver
Acura is gearing up for a significant challenge at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, aiming to secure new records and demonstrate its engineering prowess. The brand's long-standing involvement in this demanding motorsport event highlights its dedication to performance and precision. This year's strategy involves a two-pronged attack: a highly modified Integra Type S piloted by a seasoned driver seeking a new front-wheel-drive benchmark, and an Olympian-driven MDX Type S serving as the official pace car, bringing both competitive spirit and athletic excellence to the legendary mountain course.
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, often dubbed 'The Race to the Clouds,' is an arduous automotive competition where participants navigate a 12.42-mile course with 156 turns, ascending to an elevation of 14,115 feet. This extreme altitude significantly impacts vehicle performance and driver endurance, making it a true test of both machine and skill. Acura has a rich history at Pikes Peak, consistently pushing the boundaries of what's achievable on this unique terrain. Back in 2018, Nick Robinson set the current front-wheel-drive record in a 500-horsepower Acura TLX, completing the climb in an impressive 10:48.094. This record has remained unbroken despite subsequent attempts, including by Acura itself, due to the challenging combination of track conditions and unpredictable weather.
For the upcoming June 21, 2026 event, Acura is placing its hopes on veteran driver Dai Yoshihara, a Formula Drift champion and Pikes Peak specialist. Yoshihara will be behind the wheel of an Acura Integra Type S DE5 race car, competing in the Time Attack 1 (TA1) category. This purpose-built machine is derived from a production Integra Type S, but features extensive modifications. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine has been tuned to deliver over 360 horsepower, paired with a sequential, paddle-shifted six-speed gearbox for rapid and precise gear changes. To counteract the power-sapping effects of high altitude, the Integra Type S DE5 is equipped with an upgraded intake system, an enhanced charge pipe, and an additional intercooler. High-performance Yokohama Advan A005 tires will ensure maximum grip and control on the demanding paved sections of the course, as Yoshihara strives to eclipse Robinson's long-standing record.
Beyond the competitive aspect, Acura's presence will also be prominently displayed by the official pace car, an Acura MDX Type S, driven by U.S. Olympian and Team USA bobsled pilot, Kaysha Love. This collaboration underscores Acura's partnership with the Olympics and brings a unique blend of athleticism and automotive precision to the event. Love, a world champion in her sport, is expected to navigate the steep climbs and sharp turns of Pikes Peak with the same composure and skill she displays on the bobsled track. Her participation highlights the demanding nature of both disciplines, requiring exceptional focus and control, regardless of whether it's on ice or asphalt.
Acura's continued participation in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with cutting-edge vehicles and skilled drivers like Dai Yoshihara and Kaysha Love underscores its commitment to innovation and pushing performance limits. The event serves as an ultimate proving ground for the brand's engineering capabilities and a thrilling spectacle for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide, as they eagerly anticipate the unfolding drama on the mountain.
