2023 Acura Integra

Base

$31,895

A-Spec

$33,895

$36,895

Until we’re sure that there’s a high-performance Type S in the works the A-Spec model is the one to buy as it adds sportier bodywork, 18-inch wheels, and unlocks the availability of the six-speed manual transmission—which is not available on the base model. To get the manual, you need to also add the Technology package, which easily justifies its $3000 price increase with features such as an adaptive suspension system, a 10.2-inch digital gauge display, a 16-speaker ELS stereo system, and wireless smartphone charging, among other items. If a racy Type S model is in fact in the cards, we expect it to cost significantly more than a standard Integra, but Acura has kept mum on that model so far.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The new Integra is powered by a 200-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine borrowed from the Honda Civic Si. All models are front-wheel drive and come standard with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). A-Spec models can be had with an optional six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. An adaptive suspension system is available as well, and the A-Spec model adds an Individual drive mode to the Integra’s drive-mode selector switch which allows drivers to save a customized setting. During our initial test drive, we found the Integra to be lively and spry. The steering is heavy-weighted but satisfyingly direct and the adaptive dampers allow the driver to choose between a comfortable cruising ride or a stiffer performance-oriented setup for better cornering fun. Road noise is too evident, however, and we wish Acura had integrated more sound-deadening materials throughout the car’s design. When we get a chance to put the Integra through its paces at our test track, we’ll update this story with test results.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

According to the EPA, the most efficient Integra model is the base car with the CVT which is rated for 30 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. Such ratings will allow the Integra to go up against its key rival, the Audi A3, which is rated for 29 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. Step up to the A-Spec trim with the manual transmission and fuel economy estimates fall to 26 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. For more information about the Integra’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Although there’s plenty of parts sharing with the Honda Civic, Acura has done a decent job of making the cabin look right at home in the brand’s lineup, pulling styling from the TLX sedan and RDX SUV. Heated sport seats wrapped in faux-leather upholstery are standard and feature eight-way power adjustments for the driver; A-Spec models with the optional Technology package add faux-suede inserts to the seats as well as 12-way power adjustments for the driver and four-way power adjustments for the front passenger. The rear seat is spacious enough to comfortably fit two adults, but we noticed a lack of creature comforts there that may turn off premium buyers.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A 10.2-inch digital gauge display is standard across the Integra lineup and provides reconfigurable information for the driver. The Integra comes with a 7.0-inch infotainment display as standard with a larger 9.0-inch unit available as an option; both forgo the frustrating touchpad controller that’s found in other Acura products. The larger touchscreen is part of the Technology package on A-Spec models which also includes a wireless smartphone charging pad, a 5.3-inch head-up display, and three USB-C charging ports dotting the cabin. All models feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but only cars with the Technology package offer wireless connectivity for those features. An eight-speaker stereo is standard but an ELS Studio 3D premium stereo system is available and includes a whopping 16 speakers.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

A host of driver-assistance features are included as standard in the Integra, including automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. A-Spec models with the optional Technology package come with front and rear parking sensors. For more information about the Integra’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Standard adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Acura offers a longer powertrain warranty than most of its competitors with coverage stretching up to six years or 70,000 miles, but buyers of the BMW 2-series Gran Coupe will enjoy an extra year of complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers six years or 70,000 miles
• Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for two years or 24,000 miles.