2023 Toyota GR Corolla vs. 2024 Acura Integra Type S: A Real-World Hot Hatchback Comparison
The world of hot hatchbacks is getting larger with entrants like the 2024 Acura Integra Type S and Toyota GR Corolla. Both cars offer plenty of power, practicality, and aggressive looks but are also pretty different. I spent time in both of these power-hitting hatchbacks and came away with some impressions. Here’s a comparison between them.
2023 Toyota GR Corolla vs. 2024 Acura Integra Type S: VTEC is the way
It’s hard not to start comparing these two cars without talking about the powertrains first. The interesting part when comparing the powertrains is what lies under the hood of the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla. The potent hatchback is powered by a 1.6-liter, three-cylinder engine that generates 300 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque.
The little three-banger is very unorthodox, but it works. When I drove the GR Corolla, I was surprised at how much mid-range torque it put out, which didn’t end until the 6,500-rpm redline. It was impressive, to say the least.
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S, on the other hand, is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine. It produces 320 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Relatively speaking, the Integra Type S felt faster than the GR Corolla across the RPM band. I don’t think the extra 20 hp was a large factor, but the extra 37 lb-ft of torque was.
Additionally, the Integra Type S has VTEC, which allows the engine to breathe better at a higher RPM. I think it helps.
2023 Toyota GR Corolla vs. 2024 Acura Integra Type S: In-cabin technology
Both cars are very tech-savvy, so buyers won’t miss out on much by picking one over the other. The touchscreen infotainment system in the Acura Integra is a little larger at nine inches, compared to the Toyota GR Corolla’s 8-inch screen. Both interfaces are easy to use and there are hard buttons to make navigating through menus a little easier.
Also, neither system has a tuning knob, which I didn’t like. There’s nothing worse than having to press on the screen to change channels. Otherwise, both cars were equipped with premium sound systems, but I liked the Acura’s ELS setup a little more.
2023 Toyota GR Corolla vs. 2024 Acura Integra Type S: Which one is more comfortable?
In addition to being a little more tech-savvy, Integra’s interior also felt a little more luxurious than the GR Corolla’s. To be fair, my GR Corolla tester was the base Core model, which lacked the heated seats and steering wheel and the nicer bucket seats found in the Circuit trim level.
That said, the Integra Type S’ interior blew it out of the water with its supportive leather and Ultrasuede seats, heat function, and dual-zone climate control. The Integra’s rear seat felt a little more spacious as well, but it lacked a middle seat due to cupholders.
2023 Toyota GR Corolla vs. 2024 Acura Integra Type S: Cargo volume
One of the best reasons to drive a hot hatchback every day, aside from its power, is its practicality. Between the Acura Integra Type S and the Toyota GR Corolla, the Integra is more practical. Its cargo area boasts 24 cubic feet of space compared to the Corolla’s 13.2 cubic feet.
However, it’s worth noting that the Integra’s cargo area requires a little more luggage lifting due to the high rear bumper and narrower entry.
2023 Toyota GR Corolla vs. 2024 Acura Integra Type S: Which of these hot hatchbacks is right for you?
The hot hatch segment is alive and well with cars like the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla and 2024 Acura Integra Type S. If you want to spend less than $40,000, the GR Corolla presents a potent and practical package. But if you can afford more than $50,000, the Integra Type S offers more luxury and a little more practicality.
For my money, I would go with the Integra because I felt like it was a higher-quality car despite its high price tag. However, you can’t go wrong with either choice.
