Subaru Impreza vs Acura Integra

The 2024 Subaru Impreza underwent its sixth-generation update, embodying a sportier and more aggressive demeanor compared to its predecessor. The redesigned grille was larger and more angular, complemented by narrower LED headlights that gave it a sharp, focused look. Unlike many of its Subaru siblings, the Impreza refrained from adopting black plastic liners on its wheel arches, sticking instead with body-colored wheel arches for a polished, street-ready style. The RS trim took it a step further with side skirts beneath the doors, enhancing its low-slung appearance. The car's rear featured flared fenders similar to the previous-generation yet suggested a wider athletic stance, overshadowing its competitors like the Honda Civic and Mazda 3 hatchbacks. The new Impreza may not have broken any stylistic barriers, but its rugged street-oriented look was distinctly more formidable than its rivals.

Inside, the 2024 Impreza traded the previous generation's design for a more modern look, thanks primarily to its vertical 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen standard on the Sport and RS trims. The Base model, however, featured dual 7-inch displays. The layout overall remained familiar, with the RS model adding flair through red stitching and seat upholstery accents. Material quality was commendable, especially the areas frequently touched by the driver and front passenger, which were cushioned with soft-touch materials. In contrast, the rear seats utilized hard plastics for enhanced durability. Ultimately, the interior stepped up its game, mainly owing to the massive touchscreen, which stood as the centerpiece of the design evolution.

In comparison, the 2024 Acura Integra Type S adopted a more noticeably widebody aesthetic combined with aggressive detailing. Sharing hardware components from the Honda Civic Type R, the Type S featured a redesigned front end from the bumper to the windshield, addressing the expanded front track width, 19-inch wheels, and specialized aerodynamic aids. The rear was also widened with flares visually linking it to the front, and it was completed with a subtle rear lip spoiler and a pronounced diffuser panel. The highlight was undoubtedly its triple-outlet exhaust system, which delivered a raucous soundtrack in Sport+ mode.

Inside, the Integra remained familiar to the A-Spec model, with the addition of specific Type S emblems and Ultrasuede seat inserts. The dashboard could be matched with different interior colors like Black, Red, or Orchid, while unique graphics adorned the digital displays. Despite the consistency in materials, certain areas fell short of the high expectations set by its high price point, especially the less lavishly designed rear seats.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza was powered by two engine choices. The Base and Sport trims were equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. The RS model upped the ante with a 2.5-liter engine, offering an output of 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), with the Sport and RS trims adding steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles for manual control over the eight simulated gears. All-wheel-drive (AWD) was standard across all Impreza models.

In the RS, Subaru's most performance-oriented choice, acceleration was prompt and adequately responsive, challenging what was typically expected from a CVT. This model delivered a satisfying drive on curvy roads, benefiting from its standard AWD and sport-tuned suspension, which provided a balanced mix of handling prowess and ride comfort. Road noise was noticeably reduced compared to previous generations, making longer journeys more pleasant.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S, on the other hand, shared several specifications with the Honda Civic Type R, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing a slightly higher 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed manual gearbox and a helical-type limited-slip differential, boasting a robust front-wheel drive performance. The suspension system included a dual-axis front strut and multi-link rear suspension with adaptive damping, offering four driving modes and high-caliber Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires for exceptional grip.

On the road, the Integra Type S demonstrated a fine balance between spirited driving and everyday usability, accentuated by a softer ride even in its sportiest setting. Despite some hints of torque steer on uneven surfaces, the Integra remained steadfastly agile and accurate in its handling. The exhaust note added an exhilarating soundtrack, albeit at the expense of cabin quietness on highways.

Front passengers of the 2024 Subaru Impreza enjoyed a spacious cabin where functionality took precedence. Controls were logically placed for easy operation, visibility was high thanks to narrow front roof pillars, and drink storage was plentiful. The RS trim also offered a wireless charging pad for added convenience. Rear seats were surprisingly accommodating, with enough headroom and legroom for six-footers. The cargo area had a capacity of 20.4 cubic feet, expandable to a healthy 56 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, though not entirely flat.

Conversely, the 2024 Acura Integra Type S boasted front sport seats with aggressive bolsters and Ultrasuede inserts for premium comfort. The seats could be adjusted with 12-way power for the driver, while the front passenger seat lacked power adjustment. The rear-seat legroom was decent, but the cushions lacked thigh support and the backrest promoted slouching. Cargo space in the sportback model was impressive with 24.3 cubic feet available and significantly increased when the back seats were folded down, giving it utility likened to a small crossover SUV.

Technologically, the 2024 Subaru Impreza shined with its 11.6-inch touchscreen in the Sport and RS trims. The display was user-friendly with physical knobs for volume, tuning, and temperature control, making for a quick and intuitive interaction. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the higher trims featured wireless connectivity. Although there was no native navigation system, smartphone integration sufficed for most users. The system also included Starlink with a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote vehicle monitoring through a smartphone app.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S featured a 10.2-inch digital instrumentation display and a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, HD Radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system was easy to navigate, high on the dashboard, and had physical buttons for essential functions. However, pairing devices could be slow, and the wireless charger showed inconsistent performance. The 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system had mixed reviews, struggling with the car's inherent high noise levels.

Safety was a top priority for both vehicles. The 2024 Subaru Impreza came with Subaru's EyeSight driver assist suite, including features like frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-centering. Stepping up to the Sport model added Starlink communications, while the RS model included additional safety features like a blind-spot monitor. The Impreza performed well under these safety protocols with no intrusive actions.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S featured the AcuraWatch ADAS suite, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and several other critical features. However, the adaptive cruise control didn't have low-speed follow or Traffic Jam Assist, and the automatic emergency braking couldn't bring the car to a complete stop. Despite some minor performance flaws, AcuraWatch proved reliable in its operation. The standard Integra's superb safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS hinted positively towards the Type S's prospective safety performance.