2024 Acura Integra Type S vs. 2023 Honda Civic Type R: Is the Badge Worth the Extra Cash?
2024 Acura Integra Type S vs. 2023 Honda Civic Type R highlights:
- The 2024 Acura Integra Type S is the brand’s latest high-performance hatchback based on the Civic Type R.
- The Honda Civic Type R was redesigned for 2023
- Although these sporty compacts are nearly identical, the Acura has a much higher price tag
The Honda Civic Type R has been in the market since 2017 and provides buyers with plenty of turbocharged fun and practicality. The 2024 Acura Integra Type S takes that driving fun and pragmatism to a new level with a more upscale look inside and out and a few more tech features.
| 2024 Acura Integra Type S | 2023 Honda Civic Type R | |
| Pricing | $50,800 | $43,795 |
| Trim levels | One trim level | One trim level |
| Engine Types + Sizes | Turbo 2.0-liter, four-cylinder | Turbo 2.0-liter, four-cylinder |
| Horsepower + Torque | 320 hp, 310 lb-ft | 315 hp, 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission + Drivetrain | Six-speed manual | Six-speed manual |
| Fuel efficiency | 21 city/28 highway | 22 city/28 highway |
| Safety Rating | Five stars | Five stars |
| Generation (1st, 9th) | Fourth | 11th generation |
2024 Acura Integra Type S
- Pros: The Acura Integra Type S is a hatchback with over 300 hp and plenty of luxurious features.
- Cons: Its high price tag makes it a less compelling option over the Honda Civic Type R.
The Acura Integra Type S is the high-performance version of the new hatchback. It shares its underpinnings with the Honda Civic Type R, which includes its powertrain and suspension. We recently drove this pocket rocket and found it comfortable enough for the street but a real solid performer when pushed to the limit.
2023 Honda Civic Type R
- Pros: A moderately-priced hatchback with plenty of turbocharged performance and practicality.
- Cons: The Civic Type R could be a little too racecar-like for some buyers.
Honda revamped the Civic Type R for the 2023 model year with more power, smoother looks, and a more refined interior. With 315 hp, this version of the Civic Type R is the most powerful version Honda has ever produced. It’s great for the track but civil enough for the street. However, it could be a little too hardcore for some buyers looking for a quiet means of transportation.
2024 Acura Integra Type S vs. 2023 Honda Civic Type R: Driving and performance
Although one could argue that the Acura Integra Type S and Honda Civic Type R drive similarly, they wouldn’t be completely correct. The Acura has more sound deadening, which leads to a quieter experience, and it also has a little more power. However, it is true that both cars drive smoothly with a crisp-shifting manual transmission and free-revving turbocharged engine.
That said, both cars should exhibit similar performance on the road and a track, with only a slight variation when pushed to the limit. The Integra’s slightly heavier curb weight could make it a tad slower. Power and weight aside, both cars are built to handle a variety of driving situations with their adaptive suspensions and stick performance tires.
2024 Acura Integra Type S vs. 2023 Honda Civic Type R: Interior and tech
The similarities between these two power hatchbacks extend to their interiors as well. Both cars come with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12.3-inch driver’s instrument panel, and a premium audio system. However, the Acura’s audio trumps the Honda’s with an ELS-branded system that pumps audio through 16 speakers. The Honda, on the other hand, has a Bose system with 12 speakers.
Additionally, although the interiors of both cars look fairly similar, there are some major differences. The Civic Type R’s front seats are red and race-bucket-like as opposed to the leather and Ultrasuede seats in the Integra. The Integra also has more LED interior lighting options when different drive modes are selected, as well as a head-up display.
Both hatchbacks have similar-sized cargo areas that measure 24 cubic feet. However, the Integra’s cargo opening is slightly narrow and has a higher load height due to the high rear bumper.
2024 Acura Integra Type S vs. 2023 Honda Civic Type R: Trim levels and features
Shopping for the 2024 Acura Integra Type S or the 2023 Honda Civic Type R is easy because they’re both single-trim levels. However, there are lower trim levels for each car, but they are not as high-performing. Ultimately, the Integra has a leg up over the Civic with its creature comforts like heated seats and a better audio system.
That said, there is about a $7,000 price difference between the two hot hatchbacks. The Integra Type S starts at $50,800, and the Civic Type R starts at $43,795.
Which high-performance hatchback is the right fit for you?
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S provides a touch of upscale class, which complements its potent powertrain. Its more premium seating materials, sound-deadening, and heated seats could be seen as an advantage over the Civic Type R.
However, those looking to save $7,000 and don’t care about heated seats are fancier leather may take a liking to the Civic Type R. It provides similar performance and features and a more practical trunk area. Ultimately, either performance hatchback should work for most driving enthusiasts, depending on their needs and budget.
