The 2023 Acura Integra is quite an affordable option from this luxury brand. Despite its name, it’s just a more premium version of the Honda Civic Si model. The Si is one of the most athletic versions of the Civic sedan with its turbocharged engine, limited-slip differential, and engaging manual gearbox.

The Honda Civic Si is also still available for the 2023 model year, so is the Acura Integra even worth the extra money? Car and Driver say no: here’s why.

What Car and Driver says about the 2023 Acura Integra

Car and Driver assure readers that the Integra doesn’t disappoint in handling. While heavier than many other sporty sedans, the steering is surprisingly enjoyable. C/D says that the six-speed manual transmission provides accurate and unobtrusive shifts.

According to Acura, the Integra is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine capable of 200 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. With this engine and the manual transmission, the Integra can reach 60 mph in 7 seconds. 

However, the manual transmission isn’t included on the base trim: instead, you’ll get a CVT. 17-inch wheels are standard, but the first A-Spec model includes 18-inch wheels.

Car and Driver also appreciated the Acura Integra’s adaptive dampers, which allow you to switch between a sporty or touring ride effortlessly. The Acura Integra also has a feistier design language compared to the Civic Si. Its body lines are slightly more striking. It has narrowed angry-eye headlights and features a different grille design.

Still, Car and Driver warns drivers that the Acura Integra does a terrible job filtering out exterior noise. If your Integra is equipped with the standard CVT, you can also expect it to groan at high speeds. Car and Driver also say that the Integra’s interior could use more convenience features, especially considering its luxury nameplate.

Car and Driver’s thoughts on the 2023 Honda Civic Si

Car and Driver confirm that the newest Honda Civic Si’s power output is identical to the Acura Integra’s. Fortunately, it also includes a standard six-speed manual gearbox with no option for a CVT. On Car and Driver’s test track, the Civic Si reached 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. 

The Honda Civic Si’s transmission comes with rev-matching, though you can’t get adaptive dampers on this car. Still, Car and Driver says that the suspension provides an agreeable ride quality. You also get 18-inch wheels without having to pay extra.

Bigger brake rotors are standard on this sedan, and the limited-slip differential enhances its traction. If you need more confidence on the track, summer tires are available. Standard interior equipment includes a power moonroof, wireless smartphone integration, and sports seats with unique stitching. 

While the interior is eye-catching, Car and Driver were disappointed that Honda took away the standard heated seats. Without the pleasing engine note, it’s also hard to appreciate the full potential of the Civic Si’s sporty character. The engine also produces some turbo lag that’s not present while driving the Acura Integra.

Which sporty sedan is the superior option?

Car and Driver said that the Honda Civic Si is the car to buy if you prioritize value. Acura gives the Integra a starting price of $30,800. The Honda Civic Si starts at $27,500 while offering a manual transmission and the same amount of horsepower.

The Honda Civic Si also has the most peaceful interior, but many drivers will likely miss the engine’s soundtrack. The Acura Integra has the sportiest exterior, while the Honda Civic Si has the most exciting interior. Overall, Car and Driver prefer the Honda Civic Si because of its lower starting price and more attractive standard features.