2023 Acura Integra Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The legendary Integra has finally returned to the American car market. This sporty hatchback is a great option for folks who seek driving fun at a reasonable price. A versatile cargo area and good fuel economy make the 2023 Acura Integra even more practical. In contrast to so many of today’s other performance-focused cars, the Integra continues to offer the excitement of a traditional manual transmission.

Many people consider the Integra to be a great alternative to the pricier Acura TLX. It offers enough modern infotainment features and amenities to please most car shoppers. An attractive look also helps this vehicle to entice interest. There are now four available trim configurations: base, A-Spec, A-Spec with Technology CVT, and A-Spec with Technology Manual. Let’s take a look at the key variations between these new Integra trims.

Compare the Integra Base vs A-Spec Trims. What is the Difference?

The base Integra has an estimated starting MSRP of just over $31,000. This trim is highly recommended for drivers who don’t need any upgraded creature comforts or styling enhancements. In terms of performance, it’s just as pleasing to drive as the higher trim grades.

For the 2023 model year, all versions of the TLX pack the same amount of power. A 1.5-liter, turbo VTEC four-cylinder supplies the car’s muscle. This is virtually the same engine that is found on the new Honda Civic Si. With 200 horsepower resting under the hood, owners will be able to enjoy a spirited drive. Expect a 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds.

Unfortunately for some driving purists, Acura does not offer the base Integra with a manual transmission. However, its auto continuously variable transmission is tuned for sporty driving. Paddle shifters also enable drivers to simulate gear changes. Fuel economy is satisfying. The EPA rates the automatic Integra to return 30 mpg in town and 37 on the freeway using premium gasoline.

The new Integra is strictly a front-wheel-drive car. This should not worry most people. Traction on rain-soaked roads will be good. Only snowy conditions will pose a significant challenge.

When behind the wheel of the Integra, drivers can dive into curves with a high level of confidence. Sports-tuned shock absorbers and a sports-tuned electric steering system come standard. Fortunately, the car’s athletic road manners don't compromise ride comfort.

There are four driving modes to choose from. When drivers desire a more relaxing highway commute, they can activate the Comfort setting. A Sport mode intensifies the car’s performance. Meanwhile, the Normal mode is perfect for everyday drives.

The entry-level Integra does not have a basic appearance. A frameless grille and bold LED headlights help its front fascia to attract attention. Acura’s signature Chicane LED tail lamps give the car’s rear a more modern look. This trim rolls on a dapper set of 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires.

On wintry mornings, drivers can use the Integra’s heated side mirrors to dissolve snow and ice. There are six exterior color options, including Performance Red Pearl and Platinum White Pearl. Keep in mind that premium paint is an extra $600.

The base Integra’s cabin features synthetic leather, which looks more luxurious than cloth. Available upholstery colors include orchid, red, and ebony. A leather-wrapped steering wheel also comes standard. An eight-way power driver’s seat helps you to obtain a confident and relaxed driving position. While both of the front seats feature built-in heating modes, the front passenger must settle for a manual seat.

Fortunately, buyers don’t have to pay extra for the Integra’s standard sunroof. This popular amenity is often a pricey option. Interior ambient lighting enables drivers to change the cabin’s atmosphere. Keyless open with push-button ignition is another nice convenience. Other standard items include automatic climate control and a tilt/telescoping steering column.

Drivers who often haul around extra gear will find the Integra’s hatchback design to be a great asset. A 60/40-split folding rear seat expands the car’s storage space.

While the base Integra’s standard infotainment unit features a smaller 7.0-inch touchscreen monitor, drivers will enjoy the system’s uncomplicated design. While on the road, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration enables drivers to gain access to their smartphone’s functions. Bluetooth phone connectivity is also included.

When driving the new Integra, a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster shows key information. It can even display navigation routes and safety system alerts. At night, the car’s auto-dimming rearview mirror helps diminish the brightness of glaring headlights.

Acura equips the base Integra with an eight-speaker audio system, which sounds rather pleasing to the ear. A 12-volt power outlet and a single USB port enable drivers to charge external devices.

Plenty of beneficial safety features come equipped on the base model. Aside from a tire pressure monitor and a backup camera, the Integra also receives upgraded front airbags. They are specially engineered to further reduce the likelihood of a severe head injury.

AcuraWatch, which combines several accident-avoidance technologies, helps drivers to dodge danger. The car’s auto emergency braking system is intelligent enough to recognize pedestrians, bikers, and other vehicles. Meanwhile, Traffic Jam Assist curbs driving stress while stuck in heavy congestion. When traveling at speeds less than 46 mph, the system automatically keeps the Integra centered in its lane and maintains a safe following gap.

Other AcuraWatch features consist of smart cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, road departure mitigation, and a traffic sign reader. Acura goes a step further by adding a blind-spot information system.

Driving enthusiasts who don’t mind forking over an additional $2,000 should consider the Integra A-Spec. While this trim does not gain any additional brawn under the hood, it does look a bit more powerful.

To give the hatchback a sporty edge, Acura outfits it with an upsized set of 18-inch alloy wheels. Not only do the performance tires look a bit more aggressive, but they also help enhance agility. Blacked-out exterior accents and a front lip spoiler help create a more tantalizing look. In contrast to the base model, it comes equipped with LED fog lamps.

Acura also gives the Integra A-Spec just a few racy treatments. Metal sport petals and contrasting interior stitching help it to stand out.

Compare the Integra A-Spec vs A-Spec with Technology CVT. What is the difference?

The Integra A-Spec with Technology CVT’s MSRP is around $3,000 higher. It delivers the same performance as the lower trim levels. However, an Individual driving mode is added to the car’s Integrated Dynamics System. This Individual setting enables you drivers to further customize the car’s driving dynamics. Suspension stiffness, transmission responsiveness, exhaust volume, and steering feel can all be adjusted.

In contrast to base and A-Spec trims, the Integra A-Spec with Technology CVT comes equipped with adaptive suspension dampers. Ride quality and stability are improved. A sport exhaust further differentiates the Integra A-Spec with Technology CVT.

Premium creature comforts make this trim more appetizing. Dual-zone automatic climate control enables two different temperatures to be set. Meanwhile, a 12-way power seat with memory functions helps drivers to find the perfect fit. Synthetic suede seat inserts give the interior a luxurious touch. Acura also outfits this trim with a power-adjustable passenger seat.

To no surprise, upgraded tech features are found on the Integra A-Spec with Technology CVT. The top-of-the-line infotainment unit provides a larger 9.0-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone pairing. Amazon Alexa Built-In enables drivers to make verbal commands. A Wi-Fi hotspot is included as well. Other nice conveniences include a wireless charging pad and additional USB charge ports.

Another useful feature is the AcuraLink Connected Services app. It allows drivers to remotely connect with the vehicle via their phone. They can remotely fire up the engine, lock the lock/unlock the doors, and more.

When moving up to the A-Spec with Technology CVT trim, buyers will receive a 5.2-inch head-up display. This means the vehicle’s speed and safety alerts can be easily viewed without the driver taking their eyes off the road. Featuring 16 premium speakers, the car’s ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system will thrill music fans. A cargo-area subwoofer helps the system to produce stronger bass.

This trim’s front and rear parking sensors will help prevent parking-lot accidents. Along with the parking sensors comes low-speed automatic braking. The system can detect nearby obstructions.

Compare the Integra A-Spec with Technology vs A-Spec with Technology Manual Trim Level. What is the difference?

This is the only trim in the lineup that features a close-ratio, six-speed manual gearbox. Rev-matching technology helps drivers to experience precise shifting. This trim also receives a limited-slip differential, which helps prevent wheel slip when accelerating. More power is then transferred to the pavement. With the manual transmission, acceleration is a tad faster.

While the manual-equipped Integra isn’t quite as economical, many driving enthusiasts will not mind making this small sacrifice. Fuel economy is still a more than reasonable 26 mpg in town and 36 mpg on the open road.

Fortunately, buyers won’t have to pay more money in order to enjoy the excitement of a manual gearbox. The Integra A-Spec with Technology CVT and the Integra A-Spec with Technology Manual have an identical MSRP.

Final Thoughts

Drivers who’re seeking lower payments will lean more towards the base Integra. Even it delivers a sporty driving experience. Some of the standard features include an eight-speaker stereo system, a 7.0-inch touchscreen, a digital gauge cluster, and a sunroof. Protective safety technologies also help make the base Integra a solid value. The car's sharp exterior styling is another plus.

While the Integra A-Spec does have a bolder look, car shoppers must decide if its appearance upgrades are worth the extra money. Remember, no additional creature comforts or performance-enhancing features come equipped on this trim.

Drivers who prefer a more luxurious sport compact will be interested in the Integra A-Spec with Technology CVT. It provides several premium upgrades. Just a few of the biggest highlights include a powerful-sounding ELS Studio 3D audio system, an upgraded infotainment system, and Wi-Fi hotspot. Adaptive suspension dampers also help make this trim a worthy pick.

The A-Spec with Technology Manual is expected to be a popular choice among driving purists. Its manual transmission definitely amplifies the car’s driving fun. However, fuel economy in the city is just a bit lower.