2024 Acura Integra Type S vs. 2023 Lexus IS 500: A High-Performance Sedan Comparison
2024 Acura Integra Type S vs. 2023 Lexus IS 500 highlights:
- The 2023 Lexus IS 500 has a potent V8 engine, rear-drive configuration, and plenty of luxurious amenities. However, its interior is a little cramped, and its tech features could use some updates.
- The 2024 Acura Integra Type S has a punchy turbocharged engine and a ton of agility, but it’s pricey for an Acura. It also only comes in front-wheel drive.
- If you’re deciding between these cars, it’s important to factor in the value proposition of each.
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S and the 2023 Lexus IS 500 are two very different sedans, but they both offer plenty of driving thrills. The Acura Integra Type S evokes emotion via its potent turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, agile handling, and tech-rich cabin.
The 2023 Lexus IS 500, on the other hand, speaks to those looking for V8 muscle in a Japanese sedan. Its raw power offers neck-snapping torque, and although it’s heavy, the IS 500 can handle tight corners with ease. One car has a front-drive configuration, while the other is driven by its rear wheels. Here is a comparison between them.
| 2023 Lexus IS 500 | 2024 Acura Integra Type S | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $60,020 | $50,800 |
| Trim levels | Two trims | One trim |
| Engine Types + Sizes | 5.0-liter V8 | Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder |
| Horsepower + Torque | 472 hp, 395 lb-ft of torque | 320 hp, 310 lb-ft of torque |
| Transmission + Drivetrain | 8-speed automatic | Six-speed manual |
| Acceleration + Top Speed | 0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds Top speed: 149 mph | 0-60 mph: 5.1 seconds Top speed: 167 mph |
| Fuel efficiency | 20 city mpg/28 highway mpg | 21 city mpg /28 highway mpg |
| Safety Rating | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Generation (1st, 9th) | Third generation | First generation |
2023 Lexus IS 500
- Pros: The 2023 Lexus IS 500 has plenty of power and elegant styling. It’s also quite the head-turner and has a well-appointed interior.
- Cons: The interior space is a little cramped, especially in the rear. The tech features are also pretty outdated.
The 2023 Lexus IS 500 is a bit of an anomaly in the sedan world. A large 5.0-liter V8 powers it, while most other cars come with a V6 or turbocharged four-cylinder. The IS 500 also packs a lot of tech into a mid-size sedan, but much of it is outdated.
During my time with it, I liked certain features like the Mark Levinson premium sound system, the driver-assist features, and the simple layout. However, although the car’s 10.3-inch infotainment display is touch-activated, there’s a touchpad on the center console that puts it to better use. It’s not bad, but the operation can be cumbersome while driving.
Ultimately, the main highlight of the IS 500 is its V8 engine that generates 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, which makes it quite the tire-shredder on the street. It’s plenty of fun to drive when mashing on the throttle pedal for short jaunts. But it also cruises smoothly on the highway and at lower speeds.
2024 Acura Integra Type S
- Pros: The 2024 Acura Integra Type S is the high-performance trim level in the compact hatchback’s trim lineup. It provides plenty of driving fun with a turbocharged engine and agile handling dynamics.
- Cons: The Integra Type S is pricey with its $50,000 price tag, and it also only comes in a front-drive configuration.
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S is the corporate cousin to the Honda Civic Type R. It shares the same powertrain and suspension with the Civic Type R, but adds a dose of daily driving comfort. That comfort comes via power-adjustable front seats with heating, a better sound system, and more sound insulation.
The key drawback to the Integra Type S is its price. Although it’s an amazing performer on the street, the hot-hatch Integra costs over $7,000 more than the Civic Type R, which performs similarly. Another drawback is that the Integra is only offered in a front-drive configuration, which could turn off some driving enthusiasts.
2024 Acura Integra Type S vs. 2023 Lexus IS 500: Driving and performance
Although the Acura Integra Type S and Lexus IS 500 are high-performance sedans, they offer vastly different driving experiences. The Lexus feels like a four-door muscle car with its rumbling V8 engine, but it’s easy to drive because it has an automatic transmission. The rear-drive configuration also makes it fun on the canyon roads as the rear-end kicks out with the stab of the throttle.
The Integra Type S, on the other hand, offers a more athletic experience. Its spry handling exudes Spiderman-like handling through the canyon turns, and its turbocharged engine has plenty of torque in the mid-range and high-RPM region of the tachometer. If the Integra Type S is an agile martial artist, the IS 500 is a heavyweight boxer.
2024 Acura Integra Type S vs. 2023 Lexus IS 500: Interior and tech
Regarding the interior of both of these cars, the Acura Integra Type S blows the Lexus IS 500 out of the water. Don’t get me wrong, the IS 500 is luxurious with its soft-touch surfaces and leather interior, but its tech features could use some updates – mainly the infotainment system.
The Integra Type S’ interior doesn’t look or feel as lavish as the IS 500’s, but its tech features are better. There’s a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the center of the dash that’s easy to use and reach. There are also heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and a wireless charging dock. The suede and leather seats are also very comfortable and supportive.
Between the two cars, I would pick the Integra over the IS, despite its interior feeling less opulent. However, either car would be comfortable for a long drive.
Which high-performance sedan is right for you?
When shopping between the 2023 Lexus IS 500 and the 2024 Acura Integra, it could be tough to pick the right one. From a performance standpoint, the Integra offers a well-balanced powertrain, but the IS 500 has more power. That said, if you want the feeling of being pushed back in the seat, the IS 500 is for you.
However, if you want a more spacious interior, updated technology, and a powertrain that is powerful and efficient, I recommend the Integra Type S. Fortunately, you can’t go wrong either way.
