The Acura Integra was one of the first models produced by Honda’s luxury and performance division, launched in 1986. After 16 years and three design updates, Integra took a 17-year breather and returned to us for 2023.
Strengths of the new Integra include dramatic styling, zippy acceleration, a high fun-to-drive factor, good fuel economy, and pricing within a reasonable grasp.
The Integra luxury compact car has front-wheel drive and five-passenger seating. The luxury is largely confined to the driver and front-seat passenger, however, because rear seats aren’t roomy or comfortable enough for long drives. In their favor, they do provide up to 37.4 inches of legroom.
With a streamlined shape and four side doors, Integra could be mistaken for a sedan, but it’s a cleverly disguised hatchback. An area behind the rear seats provides 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space, accessed via a lifting fifth door (hatch) whose opening is generously and conveniently tall and wide. Rear seats fold down in a 60/40 split for more cargo room when needed.
There are three Integra trim levels: Base, A-Spec, and A-Spec with Technology Package. Each one is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard across the board, and the A-Spec with Technology Package offers a six-speed manual transmission as a no-cost option. Adaptive dampers are also exclusive to the A-Spec Tech.
Three large climate control knobs in the 2023 Acura Integra provide a nice tactile experience as they click while being turned. (Acura)
Fuel economy ratings are 30 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 33 mpg combined for the base and A-Spec models. For the A-Spec with Technology Package, the numbers are 29/36/32 mpg with a CVT, and 26/36/30 mpg with the six-speed manual transmission. Premium 91-octane fuel is recommended for all.
Integra pricing starts at $31,895 (including a $1,095 destination charge) for the base model. Add $2,000 for the A-Spec and $3,000 above that for the A-Spec with Technology Package.
Safety and driver-assistance features are in great supply as standard equipment on every 2023 Integra. Comfort and convenience features abound as well, as befits the Acura brand.
Integra’s infotainment system is carefree, especially since it doesn’t use a trackpad for operation. The climate control system is a standout with three large knobs for adjustment that click when turning in a wonderfully tactile way.
The A-Spec with Technology Package infotainment system includes items not available on the other models, such as satellite radio, wireless charging, Wi-Fi hotspot, Alexa Built-in, head-up display, and a dreamy 16-speaker ELS Studio audio system.
Integra’s highway ride is relaxed but with good road feel. On twisty roads, it’s always up for a good time. Driving enthusiasts eager for more can look forward to the high-performance Integra Type S due to arrive this summer as a 2024 model.
Streamlined styling gives the 2023 Acura Integra hatchback the look of a sports sedan. (Acura)
2023 ACURA INTEGRA A-SPEC WITH TECHNOLOGY PACKAGE
Base price, including destination charge: $36,895
Price as driven: $37,395
Mary Lowry is a member of the Motor Press Guild and a member and past president of the Northwest Automotive Press Association. She lives in Snohomish County. Vehicles are provided by automotive manufacturers as a one-week loan for evaluation purposes only. Manufacturers do not control content of the reviews.
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