What is special about Acura Integra?
The Acura Integra stands out as the revival of a storied sport-compact name, pairing practical hatchback usability with engaging performance and premium presentation. It aims to offer accessible driving excitement without sacrificing daily usability.
Since its return, Acura has framed the Integra as a bridge between everyday transport and a sporty, enthusiast-friendly drive. The lineup spans a refined base model and the high-performance Integra Type S, which pushes the envelope for front-wheel-drive luxury performance in this segment.
Heritage and design philosophy
The Integra’s identity harks back to the late 1990s and early 2000s, when the original Integra and its Type R performance variant defined a benchmark for compact performance. The modern Integra preserves that ethos by offering hatchback practicality, a sharp, premium interior, and a chassis tuned for engaging handling while maintaining everyday comfort. Acura leans into a clean, angular design language and high-quality materials inside, aligning with the brand’s current luxury performance positioning.
Key traits that connect the new Integra to its heritage and to today’s market include:
- Revived badge with roots in the original Integra and Type R
- Hatchback practicality paired with a refined interior
- Sound chassis tuning for nimble handling and responsive steering
- Tech integration typical of Acura, including modern infotainment and driver assists
- Competitive value within the premium hatch segment
- Distinct design cues that nod to the classic Integra while remaining contemporary
In practice, the Integra blends nostalgic design cues with modern engineering to deliver a vehicle that can be comfortable everyday transport and a fun-to-drive performance option.
Variants and performance
Base Integra
The base Integra uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder delivering roughly 200 horsepower and about 192 lb-ft of torque. It’s designed for everyday driving with engaging acceleration, precise steering, and a well-balanced chassis. The model emphasizes hatchback practicality with adequate cargo space, comfortable seating, and a suite of standard safety and tech features, including smartphone integration and driver-assistance tech. Transmissions offered emphasize a traditional driving feel that many enthusiasts prefer.
Integra Type S
The high-performance Integra Type S represents the apex of the lineup, packing a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with around 320 horsepower. It brings upgraded brakes, a stiffer suspension, a more aggressive aero package, and a limited-slip differential to sharpen handling. A manual transmission is favored for driver engagement, with a focus on track-ready performance while preserving some daily usability. The Type S sits at a higher price point but is pitched as a true driver’s car within Acura’s compact lineup.
Interior tech and daily usability
Inside, the Integra emphasizes premium materials and modern tech features to match its sporty character. Expect up-to-date infotainment with smartphone integration, quality audio options, and a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance systems. While not as brash as some pure sport compacts, the Integra aims to satisfy enthusiasts who still want comfort, practicality, and a refined cabin.
Why owners appreciate the cabin and tech:
- Comfortable, supportive seating with quality materials
- Accessible cockpit layout and intuitive controls
- Strong infotainment with smartphone integration and available premium audio
- Solid cargo space for a compact hatchback
- Comprehensive safety and driver-assistance features
- Refined ride quality that balances sportiness with daily comfort
In short, the interior and tech are up to Acura’s luxury standards while maintaining a value proposition in the competitive compact space.
Summary
The Acura Integra stands out for reviving a beloved badge while delivering a practical, sporty hatchback with modern refinement. Its base model offers accessible performance and everyday usability, while the Integra Type S pushes the envelope with higher horsepower, advanced chassis tuning, and a driver-centered experience. Together, they position the Integra as a unique choice in the premium compact segment—heritage-informed, engineering-driven, and built for enthusiasts who want a little more from a daily driver.
