What years did Acura make the Integra?
The Acura Integra has two distinct eras: the original run from the mid-1980s through 2001, and a revival that began in 2023 for the 2024 model year and continues today.
Original run: 1986–2001
The early Integra line in the United States spanned three generations and several model years, ending in 2001 when Acura shifted focus to the RSX. The following section breaks down the major generational spans in the U.S. market.
- First generation: 1986–1989 model years (launched in the U.S. in 1986; two-door hatchback and coupe styles).
- Second generation: 1990–1993 model years (updated styling and revised chassis).
- Third generation: 1994–2001 model years (the final U.S. Integra generation before the nameplate was retired).
The Integra’s U.S. production ended after the 2001 model year, making room for the RSX in 2002. In other markets, the Integra name continued in different forms, but for the United States, 2001 marked the end of the original era.
Revived era: 2023–present
A new chapter began when Acura revived the Integra name in 2023 for the 2024 model year, reintroducing a modern hatchback that aligns with Honda’s Civic platform. The revival has included updates and variants, notably a performance-focused Integra Type S introduced after the initial launch.
Markets and variants: The revived Integra launched in the United States and other markets starting in 2023 for the 2024 model year. In some regions, branding differs (for example, Honda handles many non-U.S. markets), but the Integra nameplate persists as Acura in North America. The Type S variant represents the high-performance end of the revived lineup and has helped broaden the model’s appeal.
Global market variations
Across the globe, the Integra lineage has appeared under different badges and in various body styles, reflecting regional branding strategies. In North America, it remains an Acura model, while other regions have used the Honda Integra branding or related hatchback offerings based on the same platform.
Summary: The Acura Integra’s production years fall into two main periods. The original run in the United States lasted from 1986 to 2001, across three generations. The name was revived in 2023 for the 2024 model year and continues to be offered today, including the high-performance Integra Type S.
What is the best Integra year?
The best Acura Integra year is highly subjective, but the 1997-2001 third generation, particularly the 1997-2001 Integra Type R, is often cited as the best for performance enthusiasts due to its hand-built engine, limited-slip differential, and track-focused design. For those seeking a balance of luxury and performance, the third-generation GS-R models from the same years are also excellent choices.
This video discusses the 1995 Acura Integra GSR, an excellent choice for everyday performance: 58sM-t3chYouTube · May 2, 2025
Performance-focused: 1997-2001 Type R
- Engine: Hand-built, 195-horsepower, 1.8-liter DOHC VTEC engine (B18C5).
- Drivetrain: A limited-slip front differential and a five-speed manual transmission.
- Chassis: Stiffer chassis, upgraded suspension and brakes, and reduced weight.
- Design: Exclusive Championship White paint on early US models, a large rear wing, and no sunroof.
Well-rounded performance: 1997-2001 GS-R
- Engine: VTEC-equipped engine, which provided enhanced performance at higher RPMs.
- Transmission: Available with a manual transmission for a connected driving experience.
- Features: Offered with a balance of luxury and performance, including available leather upholstery on later models.
Why other years are less frequently mentioned
- Earlier models (first and second generations): Were less powerful and refined than the third generation, though some enthusiasts find the 1992 GSR a good starting point.
- Later models (RSX): The Integra nameplate was replaced by the Acura RSX after 2001, so these are a different model line.
You can watch this video for a buyer's guide on the third generation Integra: 1mHakosanYouTube · Mar 2, 2024
What Acura to stay away from?
According to CarComplaints.com, the 2003 model is one of the most problematic Acura TL years, with over 400+ NHTSA user complaints. This car's top three most prominent problems are transmission failure, car shakes during acceleration, and the peeling clear coat.
What year did Acura make Integra?
The original Acura Integra was first released in the United States in 1986 as one of the brand's launch models. The Integra was discontinued in 2006, replaced by the Acura RSX, before the nameplate returned for the 2023 model year.
- Initial Release: The first-generation Integra was introduced in 1986 as part of the new Acura brand, along with the Legend sedan. It was available as a 3- and 5-door hatchback.
- Discontinuation and Return: The Integra was produced for several generations until 2006, when it was replaced by the RSX. Acura brought the Integra back for the 2023 model year, marking its return after a hiatus.
Why did Acura discontinue the Integra?
The original Acura Integra was discontinued in 2001 due to a market shift away from coupes toward SUVs and sedans, and the brand's strategic pivot to a more luxury-focused lineup. After a hiatus, the nameplate returned for the 2023 model year, but the original production run ended to make way for the next generation of the brand's entry-level sports coupe.
- Market demand: The market trend at the time was moving away from coupes, with consumers showing more interest in SUVs and sedans.
- Brand strategy: Acura was shifting its focus toward becoming a more upscale brand, and the Integra's production ended as part of this transition.
- Successor model: The third-generation Integra was replaced by the Acura RSX for the 2002 model year. However, some argue the RSX didn't capture the same spirit as the original Integra.
- Return of the name: The Integra name was officially retired from the U.S. market until its revival for the 2023 model year, which is based on the Honda Civic platform.
