For anyone who wishes there was a Honda Civic Type R Touring model, there is.
It wears a different badge and is called the Acura Integra Type S.
A year after that 2023 Honda Civic Type R arrived and received the title Motor Authority Best Car to Buy 2023comes in a slightly more luxurious, visually toned down version with a premium badge.
After spending a few days and hundreds of miles on it 2024 Acura Integra Type S, it’s clear that this is the version of the car I would like to own, although I’m not sure I want to spend that much money. The price may be a challenge, but the Integra Type S also has a lot to offer. Here are the pros and cons of the 2024 Acura Integra Type S.
2024 Acura Integra Type S
Pro: Acura Integra Type S flies under the radar
The Civic Type R is visually striking with protruding sills, a large rear diffuser and a massive rear wing mounted on the tailgate. The Integra Type S is the opposite. At first glance, few will recognize that this is the hot rod model. Flared fenders, Type S-specific 19-inch wheels, big brakes, the Type R’s triple exhaust tips and a subtle body kit are all that set it apart from the standard Integra. During my two-day rental period, only one person noticed that the Apex Blue Pearl Integra was a Type S, and he was in a lime green Audi RS3, losing his mind as he peppered me with questions at a stoplight.
2024 Acura Integra Type S
Disadvantage: Acura Integra Type S retains the compromises of the base model
The Integra packaging of the Type S remains unchanged. This means the back seat is compromised, with the bottom sitting too low, resulting in a knee-jerk seating position, and a quick roofline that restricts headroom. At 1.75 m tall, my head hits the headliner. If I hit a bump, my head could hit the roof.
2024 Acura Integra Type S
Pro: Acura Integra Type S has the heart of the Type R, but better
The Type S uses the Type R’s 2.0-liter turbo-4. It still has 25.2 psi of boost, but at 320 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, the Acura has 5 hp more than the Honda. This is thanks to a different tuning that ensures better torque in the mid-range. You’ll never notice the difference, but you have bragging rights. The drivetrain is a gem. The high-torque turbo-4 engine kicks in with strong response all the way up to the 7,000 rpm limit, which can result in strong response Giggle factor. The 6-speed manual transmission shifts from gear to gear with short shift throws and satisfactory gear changes. All power goes exclusively to the front wheels.
2024 Acura Integra Type S
Con: The Acura Integra Type S’s infotainment system feels dated
On the one hand, we should all be grateful Integra lineup, including the Type S, features the Honda Civic’s touchscreen infotainment system with a tile-based interface. It’s much easier to use than the touchpad-based system in other Acuras. But it’s already looking dated, with an uninspired interface, sometimes slow responses and shaky Apple CarPlay connectivity. In five years it will feel ancient.
2024 Acura Integra Type S
Pro: The Acura Integra Type S combines comfort and control
From the well-balanced steering to the well-bolstered seats to the firm but comfortable suspension setup, the Integra Type S is also a gem to drive. It’s not tiring or uncomfortable, even over broken Midwestern pavement. The adaptive dampers are tuned a step softer than on the Type R, and there’s no Race setting to send everything into hyperactive mode. This feels like the ideal place for daily driving while maintaining track performance. Even though front-wheel drive isn’t optimal for handling, the teams at Honda and Acura did their best to make sure this car doesn’t hurtle around corners.
2024 Acura Integra Type S
Con: Acura Integra Type S costs a premium
The 2024 Acura Integra Type S Cost $51,995 including $1,195 destination. That’s about $9,000 more than a Civic Type R. My tester had the $600 Apex Blue Pearl paint, which at a sticker price of $52,595 is totally worth the extra cost. Despite the premium price, the Integra Type S lacks basic features such as driver memory or cooled front seats. These front seats are actually the same as in the standard Integra, except for firmer bolsters and synthetic suede inserts. The surcharge over the Civic Type R, which already seems around $5,000 too expensive, doesn’t seem entirely justified.
Although the Acura Integra Type S is false-wheel drive and probably overpriced, it is the ideal version of the Civic Type R and makes a great everyday car. The Type S is the Civic Type R for adults and is great fun at any speed with an under-the-radar look. Make sure you bring an adult-sized check.
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2024 Acura Integra Type S
Base price: $51,995, including $1,195 destination
Price as tested: $52,595
Powertrain: 320 hp 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine, 6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive
EPA fuel economy: 28.21.24
The advantages: sleeper status, Civic Type R drivetrain, absolute driving pleasure, comfortable
The Cons: Compromised packaging, outdated infotainment system, premium price
