Integra Type S Versus Civic Type R

In 1997, the Integra Type R debuted and remained available until 2001, marking the conclusion of the third-generation Integra chassis. The RSX Type S took its place following its departure, offering a more subdued demeanor. On the flip side, the Civic Type R was noticeably absent from the U.S. market until 2016.

After a 21-year hiatus, the legend has returned. Today, the mightiest Integra becomes the Type S redesigned for the modern driving enthusiast; the fifth-generation Acura Integra is a technological showcase that combines the same passionate performance of its predecessors with seamless connectivity and dynamic styling exceeding its Honda counterpart, Civic Type R.

The company ensures that the 2024 Acura Integra Type S will maintain its bragging rights over its 2023 Civic Type R sibling by giving it an edge in horsepower. The turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four will make 320 hp, five hp more than the Civic Type R. When it comes to performance, the Integra Type S takes the lead and surpasses its counterpart in many areas. Notably, it boasts remarkable advancements in both its exterior and interior features, making it a standout choice.

Powertrain

The latest 2024 Acura Integra Type S features a turbocharged DOHC 2.0-liter four-cylinder K20C1 engine and a six-speed manual gearbox. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generates 320 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and delivers 310 pound-feet of torque, accessible between 2,600 and 4,000 rpm. While 2023 Honda Civic Type S has 315 horsepower, making it less advantageous when it comes to this aspect. Acura stated that the Type S sound is distinct for each driving mode and, in Sport Mode, includes "pops and bangs."

Furthermore, the Integra Type S shares some of the most remarkable features of the Civic Type R, such as the Dual-Axis front suspension and Adaptive Damper System, providing steady handling and addressing torque steer-related initiatives.

The car has wider NSX Type S-inspired wheels, giving it a distinctive, sporty, and confident look. The front and rear are fitted with 265/30 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S summer tires, providing excellent grip on the road. With a wide track and an extended wheelbase of 2.8 inches, the Integra Type S features upgraded performance features to ensure a smooth driving experience on sharp bends and at high speeds.

Exterior

Regarding looks, the Acura Integra Type S takes a more sophisticated and mature approach compared to Honda Civic Type R. Unlike the Type R, the Type S doesn't feature a towering rear wing. Instead, it opts for a milder decklid spoiler that blends in with its overall design. Moving down to the rear end, the Type S showcases a purposeful appearance with a well-defined diffuser surrounding three exhaust finishers.

The Integra Type S accentuates its bulging fenders. Significant enhancements have been made to the vehicle's front end, extending from the A-pillars and onwards, to create a more refined and polished look, further enhancing the vehicle's overall appeal.

The Integra Type S features an aluminum hood with vents above Acura's distinctive diamond pentagon grille. This combination significantly enhances airflow, leading to a remarkable 170 percent improvement in cooling for the 2.0-liter engine. As a result, users can expect better performance and reduced overheating concerns during track days, especially compared to the previous generation Type R.

In terms of color options, Integra Type S offers seven color choices, a range of deep, rich monochromatic premium paint colors, including Performance Red Pearl, Liquid Carbon Metallic, Majestic Black Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, Apex Blue Pearl, and the Type S exclusive Tiger Eye Pearl are available for drivers who demand a rich finish. However, Civic Type R buyers have a limited selection with just five paint choices, including Crystal Black Pearl, Rallye Red, Boost Blue Pearl, Sonic Gray Pearl, and Championship White.

Overall, if you prefer a car with a more refined and understated aesthetic, the Integra Type S is a better choice over the Civic Type R.

Interior

The Integra Type S has a more sophisticated interior with sporty leather seats, suede inserts, and heating. Leather upholstery covers various car sections, including the steering wheel, dash, and door panels. Aluminum trim pieces are also present throughout the interior. Essentially, the Integra Type S is a more refined version of the Civic Type R. Including these premium elements makes the Integra Type S more reasonable than Civic Type R.

The Acura Integra features a 10.2-inch Driver Information Interface (digital gauge cluster) and a 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment unit, providing the convenience and connectivity you expect from a modern vehicle. Integra sets itself apart with a different approach to the dashboard design. Unlike the Civic's honeycomb vented dash treatment, the Acura Integra adopts a more conventional left, center, and right air vent setup. This design choice enhances the overall functionality and practicality of the dashboard.

The Integra gets a boost in audio to the tune of a 16-speaker, ELS STUDIO 3D premium audio system backed by 530 watts, compared to the 12-speaker Bose setup in the Civic. Also, the materials used throughout the Type S appear more upscale in comparison, and the switches appear slightly different.

Verdict

The Acura Integra Type S has returned after a 21-year hiatus. It offers impressive performance, exceeding its counterpart, the Honda Civic Type R, in horsepower. Its upgraded features, such as the turbocharged engine and improved handling, deliver a thrilling driving experience.

The exterior design of the Integra Type S is more sophisticated and mature, without the towering rear wing seen on the Civic Type R. The interior is refined with luxurious leather seats and premium materials, along with advanced technology features for convenience and connectivity. The Acura Integra Type S offers a more elegant and understated option than the Honda Civic Type R.

Convinced with our newest 2024 Acura Type S? We invite you to visit our dealership and experience it firsthand! Our exceptional customer service representatives are waiting!