What is the Acura version of a Civic?
The Acura Integra is the modern counterpart to Honda’s Civic in Acura’s lineup. Reintroduced for the 2023 model year, it sits on the same compact platform as the Civic while offering Acura’s premium styling and features.
In today’s market, automakers often map one brand’s compact to another’s premium badge. The Integra embodies that idea for Acura, serving as a refined, sport-oriented alternative to the Civic while sharing engineering essentials with Honda’s popular compact car.
Historical context
Historically, Acura’s closest response to the Civic has been the Integra and, earlier still, the RSX, both designed to offer a sportier, more premium take on Honda’s compact chart-toppers. The modern Integra re-emerged in 2022 for the 2023 model year, built on the same Global Compact Platform that underpins the Civic and Civic-based derivatives.
Key facts about how the Integra relates to the Civic and where it fits in Acura’s lineup:
- Shared underpinnings: The Integra rides on a platform closely aligned with the Honda Civic, enabling similar packaging and efficiency.
- engine and performance: It uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with about 200 horsepower, tuned for a balance of practicality and spirited driving.
- transmission options: A six-speed manual is available on sportier trims (notably the A-Spec/Tech variants); other trims typically use a CVT.
- body style and interior: The Integra is a five-door hatchback with a more premium interior and distinctive Acura design cues compared with the Civic.
- pricing and positioning: Acura places the Integra above basic Civics in terms of features, materials, and perceived refinement, creating a premium compact alternative.
In summary, the Integra represents Acura’s premium take on Honda’s compact platform, delivering sportier styling, enhanced materials, and a more upscale experience while sharing core engineering with the Civic.
Current model overview
Today’s Integra is offered in several trims designed to appeal to different buyers—from those who want everyday practicality to enthusiasts seeking a sportier, more connected driving experience. It maintains front-wheel drive and the same compact footprint as the Civic, but with Acura-specific trim, tech, and cabin appointments.
Key trim outlines and what they include:
- Base Integra: 1.5-liter turbo engine, CVT, modest standard features, and the entry point into the Integra lineup.
- Integra A-Spec: sport-oriented styling, available or standard sport features, and the option of a six-speed manual transmission for a more engaged drive.
- Integra Tech: top trim with advanced driver-assist systems, premium audio, leather or leather-like seating, and additional comfort and tech amenities.
In practice, the Integra offers a refined, premium compact alternative to the Civic, pairing familiar Civic dynamics with Acura’s upscale interior and design language.
Shopping considerations
Buyers weighing the Integra against the Civic should consider budget, desired level of interior refinement, and whether a manuals-driven driving experience is important. If you want premium cabin appointments and Acura styling on a compact, the Integra is designed to fill that niche without straying far from Honda’s compact DNA.
Summary
The Acura Integra is the contemporary, premium counterpart to the Honda Civic in Acura’s lineup. Built on the Civic’s platform, it adds Acura’s distinctive styling, upgraded interior, and sport-oriented options, making it the brand’s modern answer to the Civic within the compact-car segment.
