- Is the 2023 Acura Integra a smarter buy over a used Honda Civic Type R?
- What does the 2023 Integra have that the Civic Type R does not?
- What makes the Honda Civic Type R a better buy than the Acura Integra?
It’s been over two decades since we last saw the Acura Integra in the marketplace, but it’s back for the 2023 model year. It shares a lot with the current-model Honda Civic – specifically the Si trim – and carries a price tag within the low $30,000 range. That made us wonder, considering the Integra’s affordable buy-in price and luxury features, could it be a better buy over a used Civic Type R?
Is the 2023 Acura Integra a smarter buy over a used Honda Civic Type R?
An overhead shot of the 2023 Acura Integra in blue | Acura
Value-wise, the 2023 Acura Integra looks to be a smarter purchase over a Honda Civic Type R. According to Acura, the Integra will carry a starting price of $30,800 and up to $35,800 for the top trim when it shows up in dealerships soon. In contrast, most used 2017 to 2021 Honda Civic Type R models are selling for anywhere between $33,000 and $50,000 according to a nationwide search on Autotrader.
Keep in mind that the Civic Type R models priced at the lower end of the spectrum are at least four years old and have plenty of miles racked up on the odometer. The new Integra would pose a better value because it’s new, has the newer tech and luxury features, and presents a better value proposition despite the fact that it’s not as much of a performer.
What does the 2023 Integra have that the Civic Type R does not?
The interior view of the 2023 Acura Integra. | Acura
Compared to the Civic Type R, some of the key features included in the 2023 Acura Integra are a well-appointed interior and some tech-savvy features. Some standout amenities include a larger 9.0-inch infotainment screen, a 10.2-inch all-digital instrument panel, wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, heated seats, and a 16-speaker ELS premium sound system. Sure, the Integra is meant to be an entry-level luxury car, but that’s what makes it such a good option over Honda’s fire-breathing pocket rocket.
Speaking of breathing fire, let’s not forget that the Civic Type R’s main draw is its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that churns out 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It also has some tech features like Apple Carplay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, navigation, and a decent sound system. On the other hand, the Integra is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that pounds out 200 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, the same engine found in the current Civic Si.
That is to say that if power is what you seek, then the Civic Type R is the one to get. But if you would rather have daily driving comfort, then the all-new Integra is the way to go.
What makes the Honda Civic Type R a better buy than the Acura Integra?
2021 Honda Civic Type R | Honda
Aside from its potent powerplant, what makes the Honda Civic Type R a better buy than the Integra is its collectible value. The reason that the used hatchback commands a higher price than its original MSRP is that it’s in high demand. The “Type R” moniker has a special place in the hearts of Honda and Acura fans, so dealers and private sellers are able to command a premium for it. And buyers will have a car that will likely appreciate in value later on.
That being said, if Acura dealers start marking up the 2023 Integra’s MSRP by $10,000 to $15,000 – as is a common practice nowadays – then the new car won’t be worth it. But barring any price hikes, the all-new Integra is dollar-for-dollar and feature-for-feature a far better buy than a used Honda Civic Type R.
Keyword: Is the 2023 Acura Integra Worth Buying Over a Used Honda Civic Type R?