2023 Acura Integra vs 2024 Acura Integra

The 2023 Acura Integra showcased a cohesive design language that aligned seamlessly with Acura's larger models like the TLX sedan and the RDX and MDX crossovers. Its pentagonal grille, JewelEye headlights, and sharply creased character lines contributed to a modern aesthetic that was both distinctive and familiar. The Integra replaced the ILX compact sedan, offering a five-door liftback design reminiscent of the third-generation Integra. This design choice, along with embossed "Integra" nameplates and a wide track, gave the car a solid, planted look. In Canada, the 2023 Integra was available in three trims: base, A-Spec, and Elite A-Spec, each with performance all-season tires and distinctive wheel designs.

Inside, the 2023 Integra shared some similarities with the Honda Civic, but it maintained its unique identity with features like honeycomb grilles for the climate control vents and high-quality HVAC controls. The Elite A-Spec trim boasted a 9-inch colour touchscreen, a thin steering wheel, and excellent exterior visibility. However, rearward visibility was less impressive. The interior featured microsuede inserts in the upholstery, providing grip but lacking breathability. Despite its premium status, the Integra did not offer ventilated seats, and while it was well-constructed, it didn't quite match the refinement of its German competitors.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S, on the other hand, stood out with its widebody appearance and aggressive detailing. It shared hardware with the Honda Civic Type R, including a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, six-speed manual gearbox, and performance-oriented suspension and brakes. The Type S featured a redesigned front end, wider tracks, and a triple-outlet exhaust system, giving it a distinctive and sporty look. Acura offered the Type S in a single specification level, with options for trendy bronze wheels and carbon fibre accessories. The interior retained the familiar Integra A-Spec design but added Type S emblems and Ultrasuede seat inserts. While the materials were similar to the standard Integra, the rear seats lacked comfort and amenities.

The 2023 Acura Integra marked a significant departure from its predecessors by introducing a turbocharged engine. The 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivered 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque, providing lively performance. The Elite A-Spec trim offered a six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching technology, enhancing the driving experience. The Integra's suspension struck a balance between sportiness and comfort, and its handling capabilities were impressive for a front-wheel-drive vehicle. The variable-ratio electric power-steering system provided a natural feel on highways and sharp responsiveness in corners. The Integra offered three drive modes—Comfort, Normal, and Sport—allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S took performance to the next level with its turbocharged 2.0-litre VTEC engine, producing 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It shared many components with the Honda Civic Type R, including the suspension, steering, and brakes. The Type S featured adaptive dampers and a triple-outlet exhaust system, delivering a thrilling driving experience. While the Integra Type S was more civilized than the Civic Type R, it still offered impressive grip and handling. However, it was not without its quirks, such as occasional torque steer and road noise. The Type S excelled on winding roads, but its loud cabin and limited fuel range were notable drawbacks.

The 2023 Acura Integra's liftback design provided practicality with 688 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats. However, the high lift-over height made loading heavy items challenging. The interior offered a comfortable and well-organized layout, with ample space for front passengers. Rear-seat legroom was decent, but headroom was limited for taller passengers. The rear seat cushions were soft, enhancing comfort.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S featured front sport seats with aggressive bolstering, providing comfort for everyday driving. The driver's seat offered 12-way power adjustment, while the front passenger seat lacked power adjustment. Rear-seat passengers had decent legroom, but the bottom cushion lacked thigh support. The Type S retained the coupe-like sportback body style, offering 688 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up. Folding the seats down doubled the cargo volume, providing SUV-like utility.

The 2023 Acura Integra came equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster. The Elite A-Spec trim added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and a wireless charging pad. The ELS Studio 3D premium audio system with 16 speakers delivered impressive sound quality. The Integra's technology offerings made it a strong contender in its segment.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S featured a 10.2-inch digital instrumentation display and a 9-inch infotainment screen. The system included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 16-speaker Acura/ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, the wireless charging pad was unreliable. The Type S also offered a 5.3-inch head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Acura Integra set a high standard for safety with its comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Standard features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The Elite A-Spec trim added low-speed braking control and parking sensors. The Integra received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2024 Acura Integra Type S came with AcuraWatch, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. However, the manual transmission limited some features, such as stop-and-go adaptive cruise control. The Type S had ten airbags and a robust vehicle architecture for crash protection. While AcuraWatch performed well, it wasn't as refined as some competitors' systems. The Type S had not been crash-tested, but the standard Integra's ratings were promising.