It’s inevitable, at some point, if you’re looking for a performance hatch, you’ll want to compare the Acura Integra Type S vs. Honda Civic Type R. You really can’t go wrong with either, so which of these comes out on top in a hot hatch showdown?
They Both Rip Down the Road
In one corner, you have the Integra Type S, a relative newcomer to the performance hatch market, and in the other corner, you have the Civic Type R, the OG when it comes to compact performance. The Type S gets the same powertrain as the Type R. But the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine churns out 320 horsepower under the hood of the Acura and 315 horsepower under the hood of the Honda.
The Acura’s additional horsepower is the result of a high-flow exhaust. This free-flowing exhaust not only gets you more power but also delivers more satisfying pops and bangs, especially when in Sport mode. Maintenance and service, such as an oil change or tire rotation, will be the same.
It Sometimes Comes Down to Handling
The engine and transmission are just a few of the components that the Acura Integra Type S borrows from the Honda Civic Type R. It also has the same front suspension and adaptive dampers. The result is the same great handling that drivers love when they are behind the wheel of the Honda.
The Integra is slightly wider than the Civic, which can also add to how great it feels when taking tight corners. But how fast does it go? The Integra wins here. The Civic can go from zero to 60 mph in 5. 3 seconds, while the Integra will get there in 5.1 seconds.
A Slightly More Upscale Acura
Performance differences and similarities aside, what type of car do you want to sit in? The Acura has a more upscale feel in the cabin and offers a few more creature comforts. The seats come covered in microfiber with just enough splashes of red to give it the sporty look you want.
The Honda wins out if you have rear-seat passengers. The Acura’s roofline doesn’t allow for as much headroom as the Honda’s.
The Acura Integra Type S vs. Honda Civic Type R Tech
Both the Integra Type R and the Civic Type S have a nine-inch touchscreen and a 10.2-inch driver gauge cluster. The Acura gives it a little flair with some unique color options and fonts, but both have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a Wi-Fi hotspot, as you would expect from a new car these days.
If your idea of the perfect ride includes your favorite music, the Integra’s 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D stereo system will make your day. The Civic has a respectable 12-speaker Bose system, but it’s just not as impressive as the Acura’s.
When you’re looking for a performance hatch, take the Integra Type S and the Civic Type R out for a test drive. It may just come down to your personal preference.
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