I would like to meet a car enthusiast that doesn’t like the latest Honda Civic Type R. Reality is, affordable sports cars and hot hatches are dying off like an endangered species and its cars like the CTR that continue to keep the spirits high. But like anything that bring us pleasure, it comes with its fair share of headaches.  

For as enjoyable as the Civic Type R is, it is the kind of car meant for the youthful generation. Those with bad backs, weak knees and a little extra poof around the waistline would find the Type R exhausting to drive, especially every day. That is where the Acura Integra Type S comes in. Unfortunately, there is a $7,000 difference between the two with the Type S starting at $51,800.  

Fraternal Twins 

It doesn’t take much behind the wheel to notice the similarities between the Type R and the Type S. Hopping on the freeway, shifting through the tight knit gears, managing the anxiously accurate steering, we get a sense of familiarity. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine has been re-tuned to produce a mild increase in performance with 320-horsepower. For maximum performance the Integra Type S does require super premium 93 octane fuel; however, since most gas stations here in Arizona carry up to 91 octane, the performance differences is most likely very minor and unnoticeable to the untrained eye. Should you find yourself paired against a CTR and running on 93 octane fuel, the Type S should outpace it to 60-mph by about .2 seconds taking a full 5-seconds. Of course depending on how quick you can row through the gears.  

The Type S is about as close to twinning with the Type R carrying identical parts under its skin. It uses the same platform and chassis layout. It uses the same suspension spring setup, anti-roll-bars and adaptative dampers. It uses the same set of tires and Bremob brakes. It even has the same wheelbase dimensions and track dimensions.  

Luckily however, the Type S is more like a fraternal twin; while carrying identical parts in every way, it looks different and carries a completely different personality. For example, the adaptive dampers have been tweaked to reduce the stiffness in the ride quality. The drive modes have tweaked so that comfort mode drives the way it sounds with lighter steering inputs and better copious ride. Additional insulation and fireproofing has been added underneath to help reduce sound making for a quieter cabin. Even the metal shift knob has been replaced with a leather one so we don’t burn our skin off in the summer and freeze our hand to the shifter in the winter.  

These changes, while small, make a huge difference in the daily life cycle of driving. The Type S feels better behaved and well manner. But slide the drive mode into the Sport+ and it will fart like a college frat guy providing enjoyable rev matching in the gear changes and rigid composure in the chassis that carries no problem keeping up with its evil rascally twin. 

Entry Level Premium 

Now, we also must remind ourselves that the Integra Type S is in a premium sector and must be scrutinized differently. With its starting price it starts to face other compact premium sport sedans like the Mercedes-AMG CLA35 & the BMW M235i Gran Coupe. As a premium car, missing options like a sunroof, ventilated seats, rear seat air vents, a power passenger seat and even navigation are a huge drawback on a car that costs well over $50,000 and then some after dealer mark ups. Yes, these things add weight. Yes, these things alter the driving dynamics; however, where the Civic Type R is seen as the track focused race car, the Integra Type S is the enjoyable everyday streets sports car. And should offer everyday comforts found on a modern premium vehicle. 

Cons: Lacking premium essentials, rear seats lacking comfort accommodations such as an arm rest, rear air vents or matching front seat premium materials, recommends hard to find 93 octane fuel. 

Looking like a slightly upscale Honda Civic, the Integra marks itself as an entry point into the premium class. The Type S adds in classy elements like suede seats inserts, a power driver seat, nicer door trimmings, and premium ELS Studio 3D sound. And despite staring the Germans right in the face, there are few things the Type S has up its sleeve as an advantage like having standard heads-up display, heated seats and adaptive cruise control – all of which are optional extras on the BMW M235i and Mercedes CLA35.  

Pros: Everything else, averages 26-mpg combined.  

There is no doubt that the Honda Civic Type R is more fun than a one-night stand. But the Acura Integra Type S steps it up from being this young and dumb race car to this more mature, smooth driving, flying under-the-radar lady in the streets that is a freak in the sheets.