The Acura Integra is a remarkable blend of performance, practicality, and luxury in the subcompact luxury car market. With its foundation built on the popular Honda Civic, the Integra stands out by incorporating a robust 200-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, along with a crisp six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive capabilities. Drivers who prefer a more automated experience can choose a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Internally, the Integra showcases improved interior quality compared to the Honda Civic, though it doesn’t quite reach the luxury levels found in rivals like the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class or Audi A3. Nevertheless, the Integra offers unique advantages, such as a rear liftgate and a generous cargo space, making it practical for day-to-day use.
An exciting option for those seeking even greater performance is the Acura Integra Type S, which boasts a powerful 320-hp engine.
For the upcoming 2027 model year, no significant changes are anticipated, following a series of updates that included cosmetic and tech enhancements in the previous year. The top-tier A-Spec Technology trim emerges as a smart choice, presenting a sporty aesthetic alongside advanced features such as adaptive dampers, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a premium ELS audio system, and wireless smartphone charging. Moreover, it can be equipped with the appealing six-speed manual transmission, catering to driving enthusiasts.
The Integra’s engine delivers a commendable 200 horsepower, and while its 0-60 mph time of around 7.0 seconds with the manual transmission is competitive, the Civic Si, its more lightweight counterpart, is slightly faster. When tested under real-world conditions, the Integra’s fuel economy figures are impressive; the A-Spec trim with the manual achieves 41 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city.
Acura ensures comfort and usability in the Integra’s interior design, replicating the welcoming feel of other Acura models like the TLX and RDX. The cabin features a clean layout with premium materials, although it falls short of the elegance found in some German competitors. However, the hatchback design proves advantageous, allowing for an impressive 24 cubic feet of cargo capacity, expandable further with the rear seats folded.
The Integra is equipped with modern technology and connectivity options, including a 9.0-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and wireless support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Enhanced safety measures are also included, such as automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims can opt for additional driver-assistance features, making the Integra a robust offering in safety.
With an extended powertrain warranty of six years or 70,000 miles, Acura provides peace of mind, even though some competitors may offer longer complimentary maintenance durations.
In a market filled with choices, the Acura Integra stands out by effectively merging performance with everyday utility, catering to those who seek both excitement and practicality in a luxury subcompact vehicle. This model continues to keep automotive enthusiasts hopeful for a thrilling yet sensible driving experience.