2023 Acura Integra: 5 Things Consumer Reports Likes About the ILX Replacement
The Acura Integra is no stranger to the market since it was a segment leader a few decades ago. Older models are so popular now that enthusiasts pay top dollar to get their hands on one. So Acura hit the ball out of the park when it decided to resurrect the Integra. Consumer Reports recently tested two 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec models — one with and one without the Technology package. Here’s what CR experts think so far.
Overview of the 2023 Acura Integra
The 2023 Acura Integra replaces the retired ILX, which was built on the same platform as the Honda Civic. However, the new Integra shares many of the sporty Civic Si’s parts, Consumer Reports explains.
Despite its all-new look, the Integra is hardly new to the market. It was an iconic model in the’90s, which was pretty popular, especially with the modded community.
The new version is a compact four-door boasting 24.3 cubic feet of cargo, thanks to its hatchback-like shape. Not bad for a sporty car priced at $31,000 for the base model. The fuel economy is also impressive, with a 33 mpg overall EPA rating.
However, some enthusiasts think it’s too much like the Civic Si and doesn’t have enough unique features to stand out on its own. But Consumer Reports reviewers like five attributes that could set the 2023 Acura Integra apart from its cousin.
1. Manual transmission
The standard 2023 Acura Integra comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission. However, upgrading to the A-Spec trim with the Technology package gives you access to a six-speed manual. Consumer Reports says that “the crisp and precise shifter is a delight to operate.”
According to Car and Driver, this top costs around $36,895. You can opt for either the CVT or the manual transmission, and it won’t cost you any more money. As for how it performs, Consumer Reports testers say it’s similar to the Civic Si.
2. Ride comfort
The new Integra has an adjustable suspension, allowing you to choose how you want the vehicle to drive. You can use Comfort or Normal mode to give you a softer ride on bumpy roads. Otherwise, you can use the Sport mode on other surfaces.
That option is different from the Honda Civic Si, which CR felt had a rougher ride, to the point of being a bit uncomfortable. However, to get the suspension system on the Integra, you have to purchase the A-Spec trim with the Technology package.
3. Physical controls
The 2023 Integra is the first modern Acura to get physical controls instead of the touch interface in other models in the lineup. Consumer Reports is pleased with the real buttons because they’re easy to use.
With the simple controls, you can easily activate whatever program you want without taking your eyes off the road. However, some of the controls — like the digital instrument cluster you control from buttons on the steering wheel — require a bit of a learning curve.
4. Engine
A 1.5-liter inline-four turbo engine, producing 200 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, powers the 2023 Acura Integra. CR reviewers were impressed with the car’s lack of lag, which usually plagues turbocharged motors.
Its VTEC system helps the engine increase its RPMs to 7,000, making the thrilling rev of a sports car. And the start/stop system won’t leave you hanging, restarting quickly without shuddering movements.
5. Standard driver assistance features
Acura offers an impressive suite of driver assistance features in every 2023 Integra, mirroring the Civic Si. It comes with a forward-collision warning system, which uses cameras and radar systems to detect if the car is at risk of a crash. If the system detects a collision, it alerts the driver so they can make the necessary adjustments to avoid an accident.
In addition, the safety suite includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert, warning the driver if a vehicle is near when backing up.
The long-awaited return of the Acura Integra is here, and it promises to be worth the wait.
