Know Your Touring Cars: An Overview of TC America Machinery

Know Your Touring Cars: An Overview of TC America Machinery

As TC America powered by Skip Barber Racing School teams and drivers prepare for their return to racing following the summer break, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the stars of the show—the touring cars themselves. With a variety of purpose-built machinery on the grid in 2025, let’s take a closer look at the contenders lighting up the tracks across America.

Acura Integra Type S

Since its return to the grid, the Acura Integra Type S has proven itself as a formidable touring car competitor. Based on the road-going Type S, the TC version is specially prepped and built by HRC for on-track duty. Its key features include:

  • Modified version of the factory 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, tuned for reliable, consistent performance 
  • 6-speed manual transmission with race-ready sequential gearbox
  • Upgraded suspension and braking systems
  • Aerodynamic enhancements including front splitters and rear wings for added downforce

Balancing modern tech with touring car heritage, the Integra Type S is known for its agility and impressive straight-line speed. 

BMW M2 CS (Cup)

The BMW M2 CS (Cup) stands out as a powerful, rear-wheel-drive coupe, purpose-built by BMW Motorsport for close-quarters racing. Adapted from the M2 CS road car, this Cup variant blends engineering precision with track-focused aggression. Its key features include:

  • 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine delivering a broad torque curve 
  • 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with racing calibration
  • Roll-cage-integrated chassis reinforcement
  • Adjustable ABS and traction control systems for adaptable handling

Renowned for its balance and predictable dynamics, the M2 CS (Cup) is a staple in global one-make and touring car series.

Hyundai Elantra N1 TC EVO

Hyundai’s latest Elantra N1 TC EVO, a front-wheel-drive sedan, has quickly gained a reputation for reliability and cornering prowess in touring car competition. Developed by Ricca Autosport in collaboration with Hyundai Motorsport, this EVO version builds on a proven platform with refined upgrades for 2025. Its key features include:

  • Turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four tuned for endurance and sprint formats 
  • 6-speed sequential gearbox with paddle shifters
  • Lightweight chassis modifications and a comprehensive aero package
  • Tuned suspension geometry for enhanced front-end grip

Compact, quick, and relentless in tight battles, the Elantra N1 TC EVO has been the frontrunner in the opening half of the season.

Mazda 3

Mazda’s long-standing commitment to motorsports continues with the Mazda 3 Touring Car, which features sharp-handling and front-wheel-drive. Developed by CorkSport, the Mazda 3 brings proven Mazda engineering to the TC America grid. Its key features include: 

  • Mazda 2.5 Skyactiv engine with a CorkSport bespoke turbo kit 
  • 6-speed gearbox equipped with a clutch type LSD and upgraded 3-4 gears with a transmission cooler
  • Penske shocks/Swift springs, CorkSport upper mounts, and upgraded suspension pick-up points
  • Widebody kit with front bumper, splitter, front and rear fenders, side skirts, rear bumper and rear wing. 

Praised for its nimbleness and balanced handling, the Mazda 3 is a competitive package known for its great handling. 

Toyota GR Corolla TC

New to the paddock and already making waves, the Toyota GR Corolla TC channels the aggressive spirit of its rally-bred road car into a track-honed racing machine. Developed by Toyota Racing Development (TRD) and specialist partners, it’s built for resilience and high-speed precision. Its key features include: 

  • Turbocharged 1.6-liter 3-cylinder engine with remarkable power density 
  • 6-speed sequential transmission
  • Race-tuned suspension with adjustable dampers
  • Full aero package featuring a prominent rear wing and front splitter 

The GR Corolla TC brings four-door versatility and all-wheel-drive-inspired dynamics to front-wheel-drive touring car competition, offering a distinctive blend of nimble handling and durability.

Up Next: VIRginia International Raceway

With the next rounds coming up in just a few weeks at VIRginia International Raceway, the field will be back in action and vying for victory in the TC America powered by Skip Barber Racing School championship.

Get your VIR tickets now!