2024 Acura Integra vs 2024 Cadillac CT5

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S distinguished itself with a widebody appearance and more aggressive detailing, thanks to a comprehensive hardware upgrade based on recently redesigned Honda Civic Type R components. The car's front end was entirely redesigned, sporting a 3.1-inch increase in front track width, 19-inch wheels, and aerodynamic aids to enhance high-speed stability. Rear track width grew by 1.9 inches, complemented by a lower body kit and glued-on rear fender flares. A rear lip spoiler and substantial rear diffuser further added to the car's sporty aesthetic, and the triple-outlet exhaust system provided a raucous soundtrack in Sport+ mode.

The Integra Type S interior, while nearly identical to the A-Spec model, featured Type S emblems, Ultrasuede seat inserts, and unique dashboard trim matching the interior color options of Black, Red, or Orchid. The quality of materials, however, stayed the same as the standard Integra, which could sometimes disappoint for a vehicle costing over $50,000.

In contrast, the 2024 Cadillac CT5, introduced as the successor to the Cadillac CTS, presented a more restrained and stately luxury sedan. The CT5 avoided excessive chrome and geometric surfacing, opting instead for a distinctive front fascia and a stretched wheelbase that imparted a stately appearance. The rear's subtle fastback silhouette complemented the vehicle’s contemporary design.

Inside, the CT5's surfaces seemed a bit disjointed, and despite the presence of high-end materials like semi-aniline leather and carbon fiber trims, the cabin sometimes felt lacking in luxury. However, the Premium Luxury and Sport trims offered additional perks, such as massaging front seats, which enhanced the comfort and overall appeal.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S proved that its high price tag was justified by its performance. Borrowing heavily from the Honda Civic Type R, the Integra packed a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 320 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 310 pound-feet of torque between 2,600 rpm and 4,000 rpm. Its six-speed manual transmission with downshift rev-matching, helical limited-slip differential, adaptive damping suspension, and dual-pinion variable-ratio steering were all fine-tuned to provide a more comfortable ride than the Civic Type R.

Acura orchestrated the driving experience in Ojai, California, to spotlight the car's performance on varied roads. The Integra showcased excellent grip without unwanted torque steer, even on challenging terrain. Steering could've been sharper, but its road manners, especially in Comfort mode, affirmed its dual nature as both a performance and everyday vehicle.

Conversely, the 2024 Cadillac CT5 offered various powertrain choices. The base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produced 237 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (335 hp and 405 lb-ft) provided more muscle, while the CT5-V variant ramped this up to 360 hp. The CT5-V Blackwing sat atop the performance lineup with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, delivering a whopping 668 hp.

Our Premium Luxury test car, equipped with the AWD twin-turbo V6, clocked a 0-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds. It provided agile handling and a sporty driving experience. Ride quality was firm but acceptable, especially with 19-inch wheels, although the larger 20-inch option might compromise comfort. Interior noise was minimal, maintaining a balance between luxury and performance.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S came with well-bolstered front sport seats and 12-way power adjustment for the driver. Rear passengers enjoyed decent legroom, though the seating position wasn’t the most comfortable with poor thigh support. The car's hatchback design allowed for a spacious cargo area of 24.3 cubic feet, which doubled with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 matched its rivals' passenger space and excelled in front headroom and legroom for both rows. However, its 11.9 cubic feet of trunk space was the least in its class. Seat adjustments ranged from 12-way in the base model to 18-way in Premium Luxury and Sport trims, ensuring a comfortable driving position. The center console was practical, housing cupholders, storage space, and a wireless charger efficiently.

Acura equipped the 2024 Integra Type S with a 10.2-inch digital instrumentation display and a 9-inch infotainment screen. The system, while not the most graphically advanced, offered easy customization and usability with essential buttons for simplicity. Standard tech included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D sound system. However, the quality of audio could vary significantly based on the source, and the wireless charger often malfunctioned.

Cadillac's CT5 featured a 10-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display. Previous issues with the Cadillac User Experience (CUE) had been resolved, offering a smooth operation with easy-to-navigate menus. The system included a rotary controller and conventional controls for critical functions, striking a balance between tech and usability. However, it lacked the flamboyant, expansive screens of some competitors but maintained functional and straightforward tech.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S came with AcuraWatch, an ADAS suite providing adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. However, adaptive cruise control missed the full stop-and-go capabilities due to the manual transmission, and emergency braking could only reduce speed before impact.

The 2024 Cadillac CT5 earned five stars from the NHTSA across all tests. It included forward-collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and the Safety Alert Seat, which vibrated to indicate potential threats. Optional features for enhanced safety included adaptive cruise control, reverse automatic emergency braking, and Super Cruise—GM’s advanced hands-free driver-assist system, which managed acceleration, steering, and braking on compatible roads.