PRL 2023-2025 Honda Civic FL5 Type-R Tube and Fin Intercooler

PRL Tube-and-Fin Intercooler Upgrade for 2023–2026 Honda Civic Type-R FL5 / DE5

The PRL Tube-and-Fin Intercooler Upgrade is engineered for enthusiasts who demand maximum cooling efficiency, reduced front-end weight, and consistent performance from their turbocharged Civic Type-R FL5 or Acura Integra Type-S DE5. While traditional bar-and-plate intercoolers offer strength, they also carry added mass and thermal inertia that can slow heat rejection during extended driving. PRL designed this tube-and-fin intercooler with a focus on lightweight construction and rapid heat transfer to maintain stable charge air temperatures during aggressive street driving, track use, and long sessions.

This intercooler is ideal for drivers who value responsiveness and thermal consistency without unnecessary weight or complexity.

Tube-and-Fin Core Engineering

At the center of this upgrade is PRL’s high-efficiency tube-and-fin core design. Unlike heavier bar-and-plate cores, the tube-and-fin layout uses thin, oval tubes with internal fins that allow heat to escape more quickly once airflow is present. The reduced thermal mass enables faster heat shedding at speed, helping maintain lower intake air temperatures during sustained driving.

This design excels in situations where continuous airflow is available, making it especially effective for road course use, high-speed driving, and repeat pulls where thermal recovery is critical.

Lightweight Performance Advantage

One of the defining characteristics of this intercooler is its extremely low weight. The complete assembly weighs approximately 14.4 pounds, making it roughly 35 percent lighter than PRL’s bar-and-plate intercooler option. Reducing weight at the front of the vehicle improves turn-in response, chassis balance, and overall driving feel, while also reducing stress on mounting points and supporting components.

This weight reduction delivers both performance and handling benefits without compromising cooling efficiency.

CNC-Machined Billet End Tanks

The tube-and-fin core is paired with precision CNC-machined billet aluminum end tanks that are carefully sculpted to optimize airflow while minimizing excess material. These end tanks are machined from custom 6061 aluminum extrusions and shaped to promote smooth, even charge air distribution across the core.

By reducing turbulence and unnecessary restriction, the end tanks contribute to improved airflow efficiency and consistent boost delivery under load.

Improved Sealing and Assembly Hardware

PRL engineered this intercooler with upgraded sealing features designed to handle higher boost pressures reliably. The factory tab-style groove is replaced with OEM-style O-ring sealing grooves that provide a more secure and consistent seal. Custom EPDM O-rings are included to ensure long-term durability and leak-free operation.

The kit also includes lightweight fasteners and a rubber edge guard that helps seal the intercooler to the bumper opening, improving airflow direction and overall cooling efficiency.

Cooling and Performance Benefits

This intercooler delivers measurable improvements in thermal performance and driving consistency, especially during extended use:

• Faster heat dissipation at speed

• Lower and more stable charge air temperatures

• Improved consistency during back-to-back runs

• Reduced front-end weight for better handling balance

These advantages make it an excellent choice for drivers who regularly push their vehicle in high-load conditions.

Vehicle Fitment and Compatibility

This intercooler is a direct replacement for the factory unit and installs using the vehicle’s original mounting provisions with no cutting or trimming required.

Compatible vehicles include:

• 2023–2026 Honda Civic Type-R FL5

• 2024–2026 Acura Integra Type-S DE5

The design works seamlessly with factory charge piping, bumper ducting, and airflow shrouds.

What’s Included

Each kit includes all required components for installation:

• One PRL Tube-and-Fin Intercooler Assembly

• Two custom EPDM O-rings

• Lightweight M8 socket-head cap screws

• Rubber edge guard for bumper-to-intercooler sealing

The PRL Tube-and-Fin Intercooler Upgrade is a well-balanced solution for Civic Type-R and Integra Type-S owners seeking reduced weight, improved thermal stability, and consistent performance under demanding driving conditions, while maintaining factory-level fitment and reliability.