Acura Integra Review: Price, Specs, Features, and Why It’s the Best Affordable Luxury Sport Compact

If you’re searching for a car that mixes sporty thrills with everyday practicality—and doesn’t scream “look at my paycheck”—the Acura Integra might be your perfect match. After a long hiatus, this iconic nameplate is back, and it’s ready to win over drivers who want a touch of luxury without the flashy price tag. Let’s dive into what makes the new Integra a standout in the crowded compact car market.

Sleek Design That Turns Heads
The Acura Integra doesn’t shy away from making a statement. Its low, wide stance and sharp lines give it a modern, aggressive look, while the signature diamond pentagon grille and jewel-eye LED headlights add a premium flair. The fastback roofline and rear ducktail spoiler hint at its sporty ambitions, but it’s still practical enough for grocery runs or road trips. Whether you’re parking downtown or cruising the highway, the Integra’s design strikes a balance between elegance and athleticism.

Peppy Performance for Fun Drives
Under the hood, the Integra packs a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 200 horsepower. Paired with either a smooth-shifting CVT automatic or a thrilling 6-speed manual transmission (a rarity in this segment!), this car is built to keep driving enthusiasts smiling. The manual option, in particular, lets you take full control, making twisty roads feel like a playground. Fuel efficiency is respectable too, with up to 33 MPG highway, so you won’t be stuck at the gas station every other day. The suspension is tuned for sporty handling, but it’s not overly harsh—you’ll still stay comfortable on bumpy city streets.

Tech-Savvy, Upscale Interior
Step inside, and the Integra feels like a proper luxury car without the stuffiness. The cabin mixes soft-touch materials, metal accents, and optional leather seats for a polished vibe. A 9-inch touchscreen sits front and center, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can ditch the cables. The 10.2-inch digital driver’s display keeps things modern, showing everything from speed to navigation prompts. Even the base model includes perks like a premium sound system and wireless charging, though higher trims add goodies like heated seats and a head-up display.

Safety You Can Count On
Acura doesn’t cut corners on safety. Every Integra comes standard with the AcuraWatch suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on higher trims, adding peace of mind for highway merges or crowded parking lots. The Integra also earned top safety scores from the IIHS, making it a solid pick for families or new drivers.

Pricing That Won’t Break the Bank
tarting around $$31,000$, the Integra is a bargain compared to luxury rivals like the Audi A3 ($36,000) or BMW 228i ($38,000). Even fully loaded, it tops out near $38,000, which is still reasonable for the features you get. That said, if you’re okay skipping the luxury badge, non-premium options like the Honda Civic Si (which shares the Integra’s engine) cost about $5,000 less. But the Integra’s upscale interior and extra polish justify the splurge for many buyers.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Sporty handling, upscale cabin, manual transmission option, strong safety tech.
• Cons: Tight rear legroom, pricier than non-luxury siblings, no all-wheel drive.

Who Should Buy It?
The Integra is ideal for younger drivers or small families who want a daily driver that’s fun to drive but still practical. It’s also a great fit for anyone craving a luxury badge without the luxury maintenance costs—Acura’s reliability reputation helps here. If you’re a driving enthusiast who loves rowing your own gears, the manual transmission alone makes this car worth a test drive.

Final Verdict
The Acura Integra proves that you don’t need to spend big to enjoy a premium, sporty ride. It’s not the fastest or the roomiest car in its class, but it nails the basics with style, safety, and a dash of excitement. If you’re tired of boring commuter cars and want something that feels special without draining your wallet, the Integra deserves a spot on your shortlist.

Pro Tip: Spring for the manual transmission if you love driving—it’s a dying breed, and this one’s a joy to use. Also, check Acura’s certified pre-owned program for deals on lightly used models!