Skip to main content

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S is one of the most powerful and sportiest cars to come from the luxury automaker. It’s also Acura’s latest offering and is very similar to the 2023 Honda Civic Type R. That means that it has the same powertrain, similar handling characteristics, and similar features. However, there are minor differences between these two sporty compacts, which may make deciding between them tough. For anyone on the fence, check out these four reasons why the Honda Civic Type R could be a better choice.

The 2023 Honda Civic is cheaper than the 2024 Acura Integra Type S

2024 Acura Integra Type S in blue on a road
2024 Acura Integra Type S | Acura

Price is often a huge deciding factor when shopping between these two cars. The 2023 Honda Civic Type R has a leg up on the 2024 Acura Integra Type S because it’s cheaper. The hot-hatch Civic starts at $43,795, while the Integra Type S starts at $50,800. That’s a pretty big jump in price for two cars that are so similar, which means that you’ll save a lot of money by going with the Civic.

The Civic Type R has the same powertrain as the Integra Type S

2024 Acura Integra Type S Engine
2024 Acura Integra Type S | Acura

Look under the hood of the Honda Civic Type R and the Acura Integra Type S and you’ll find the same turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. However, the one in the Civic puts out 315 hp, and the Integra’s mill puts out 320. No, that’s not a big difference.

Also, when the power coming from either engine flows through the six-speed manual transmission and out to the front wheels, the power output will be very similar. Case in point: you’re getting the same powertrain with a slight 5-hp difference, probably only there for marketing purposes.

The Honda Civic Type R has sportier seats than the Integra

A Honda Civic Type R shows off its aluminum shift knob and interior.
Honda Civic Type R | Honda

There’s no denying that the heated front seats in the Acura Integra Type S appeal to those living in snow states. The seats are also appealing since they are 12-way adjustable and provide lumbar support. On the other hand, the Civic Type R has two front race buckets that are manually adjustable and don’t have heating elements. That’s a bummer, but if you’re into form over function (and racing), you may like the sportier seats in the Civic.

The Honda Civic Type R has slightly more cargo space than the Integra Type S

2024 Acura Integra Type S cargo room
2024 Acura Integra | Acura

Both of these cars are hatchbacks, which means they both provide plenty of cargo volume. However, the Honda Civic Type R’s trunk measures 24.5 cubic feet versus the Integra’s 24.3 cubic feet. OK, so it’s a tiny difference, but that could be enough space to fit a toothbrush. And everyone knows that a toothbrush is necessary.

Jokes aside, the Civic Type R also has a little more passenger volume (99 cubic feet vs. 95), which translates into a little more space for the rear-seat passengers.

The 2023 Honda Civic Type R is practically the same car but cheaper

Although the 2024 Acura Integra Type S has a bolder look with its flared fenders, hood vent, and aggressive bumper, it’s still the same basic car as the Civic Type R. Why pay more for a car that will perform the same as one that costs nearly $8,000 less? In that case, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R could be the better buy.