For car enthusiasts, the name Acura Integra sparks a blend of nostalgia and admiration. Once a staple of the 1990s and early 2000s sport compact scene, the Integra developed a cult following thanks to its sharp handling, high-revving VTEC engines, and tuner-friendly platform. Now, after a long hiatus, the Integra is back—and it’s not just banking on nostalgia. Acura has reimagined the icon for a new generation, blending performance, technology, and everyday usability in a sleek, modern package.
So, what makes the Acura Integra a standout in today’s crowded compact luxury segment? Let’s take a closer look.
A Name That Means Something
When Acura announced the Integra’s return, expectations were sky-high. After all, this was the car that helped define an era—particularly the revered Integra Type R, which remains a benchmark for front-wheel-drive performance. Acura wisely chose not to reinvent the wheel with the new Integra. Instead, it leaned into the car’s strengths: a lightweight chassis, sharp dynamics, and driver-focused engineering.
The 2025 Integra honors its heritage by retaining its five-door liftback shape, similar to some early-generation models. It’s a design choice that offers both practicality and a nod to the past, with a modern twist—sleek LED lighting, aggressive body lines, and a premium feel that elevates it beyond the economy-car roots of its predecessors.
Performance Meets Practicality
Under the hood, the base Integra is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque—shared with the Honda Civic Si. While that may not sound like a lot in today’s horsepower wars, the Integra is all about balance and engagement, not brute force.
The real magic, however, lies in the transmission options. Acura offers a slick-shifting 6-speed manual for those who want to stay connected to the driving experience, along with a CVT for more comfort-oriented buyers. The manual version also includes a limited-slip differential, further enhancing its corner-carving capabilities.
For those craving more performance, the Integra Type S is the answer. With a 320-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine borrowed from the Honda Civic Type R, the Type S transforms the Integra into a true performance machine. It’s wider, more aggressive, and unapologetically driver-focused. No CVT here—just a 6-speed manual, adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes, and all the ingredients for a genuine enthusiast car.
Tech-Savvy and Comfortable Inside
Inside, the new Integra doesn’t disappoint. The cabin feels upscale, blending soft-touch materials with a clean, driver-oriented layout. Standard features include a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch (or optional 9-inch) infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Available options like a head-up display, ELS Studio premium audio system, and heated leatherette or suede-trimmed seats make the Integra feel every bit like a modern luxury compact.
Even better, rear-seat space is generous for the class, and the hatchback design offers more cargo flexibility than most sedans in the segment. It’s a car that fits daily life just as well as it fits a backroad.
The Legacy Lives On
For many buyers, the Integra is more than just a car—it’s a connection to the past. Acura has leaned into this legacy without being trapped by it. The new Integra is not a retro car. It’s a modern machine built for today’s drivers, but one that respects and reflects the performance DNA of its forebears.
There’s also a strategic brilliance in how Acura positioned the Integra. It slots in below the TLX in the brand’s lineup, offering a more accessible entry point for younger buyers who might be moving up from a Civic or looking for something with more personality than your average compact sedan.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Acura Integra isn’t just about reviving a nameplate—it’s about continuing a story. It’s a car that balances nostalgia with innovation, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and practicality that few in the segment can match. Whether you’re an enthusiast chasing your next canyon run or someone looking for a stylish, tech-savvy daily driver, the Integra delivers.
In a world dominated by SUVs and crossovers, the return of the Integra is a refreshing reminder that small, sporty cars still have a place—and a passionate following. For those who remember the golden era of VTEC screamers and late-night wrenching sessions, the Integra is back. And for those discovering it for the first time, it’s ready to earn its stripes all over again.
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