Acura’s highly anticipated return to the Integra namesake has been bolstered by a new release of production details, including performance figures, options and interior specifics.
We’ve known for a while the 2023 Integra would return as a sporty five-door liftback with coupe-like elements. While this choice has upset some purists (and we would love to see a three-door Integra), it does make sense, as the Integra has always been a diversion from the Honda Civic, which currently is only available as a four-door model.
The new Integra will be powered by a VTEC-enhanced 1.5-liter four-cylinder, turbocharged to produce 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. Given the Civic’s current curb weight hovering below or around 3,000 pounds (depending on trim), it’s safe to say the Integra will punch in the same weight class, and we expect that engine to make it rather froggy. The most discussed component of the drivetrain is the available 6-speed manual, which Acura claims to have short throws and a close-ratio. Combined with a rev matching feature and a limited-slip differential, a manual-equipped Integra sounds true to form; however, a CVT transmission is standard.
The vehicle’s ultra-rigid body is carried by a sport-tuned chassis, which we suspect will call for more precise handling. In tandem, an available Adaptive Damper System will provide even greater control through the apexes. MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension will be active behind the vehicle’s 17×7 or 18×8 wheels, depending on trim. Those wheels also sheath 12.3-inch ventilated disc brakes up front and 11.1-inch solid rear discs in back. Wheelbase is measured to 107.7 inches, identical to the 2022 Honda Civic.
All trims will see the same general exterior design: a coupe-like profile spearheaded by “Chicane”-styled LED daytime running lights and Acura’s Diamond Pentagon grille, now frameless in it’s design. The daytime runners frame up the four JewelEye LED headlights; beneath them are the available LED fog lights. Thin A-pillars and a low cowl provide a sleek appearance in the front, sweeping to the liftback rear. The back end incorporates dual exhaust and an unswept decklid. Single piece LED taillights– a throwback to Integras of old– emphasize the vehicle’s relatively-wide track and stance. Both the front and rear fascia are nostalgically stamped with the “Integra” logos.
The interior is fabricated with some driver-centric elements and soft touchpoints throughout. Vehicle information is provided via the 10.2-inch Acura Precision Cockpit gauge cluster, and a standard 7-inch infotainment touchscreen is mounted in the center stack for music, navigation and other less-immediate functions. All Integra models will come with heated front seats wrapped in synthetic leather, finished in either Ebony, Red or Orchid-colored materials. A diamond mesh pattern, similar to what’s seen in Acura’s grilles, is used to cover the HVAC vents. Rear occupants are said to be given generous legroom and, when not in use, the seats are foldable in a 60/40 configuration, expanding the trunk space into a flat cargo area.
All models will come standard with AcuraWatch, the automaker’s suite of onboard safety tech. Those include a Collision Mitigation Braking System, Traffic Sign Recognition and Traffic Jam Assist (CVT transmission only). Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist will also be included, alongside a standard Blind Spot Information System with Rear Cross-Traffic Monitoring on every trim.
Speaking of, the 2023 Integra will be offered in two initial trims: a base model simply dubbed “Integra” and the “Integra A-Spec.” The A-spec adds a trim-specific appearance package, standard LED fog lights, and is equippable with the aforementioned manual transmission. The appearance pack will add a special lip spoiler, gloss-black window surrounds, A-Spec badges, and the previously described 18-inch alloy wheels finished in “Shark Gray.”
A-spec models can be further enhanced with a Technology Package, which provides keyless remote start for CVT models, as well as microsuede seat inserts, 12-way adjustable driver’s seat with memory functionality, 3 Type C USB ports, a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen and wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. The tech package adds onto the AcuraWatch safety suite with front and rear parking sensors and Low-Speed Braking Control.
The 2023 Integra will be the first Integra to be built in America at Acura’s plant in Marysville, Ohio; it will utilize the same line as the Acura TLX. Engines are to be built at the Anna Engine Plant in Ohio, which also produces the Type S Turbo V6 used in the TLX Type S and the twin-turbo V6 used in the NSX Type S supercar.
The 2023 Integra is expected to launch with a starting price of around $30,000, available for preorder at participating dealers as of today. The first 500 reservations (with deposit) will also lay claim to an exclusive non-fungible token (NFT).
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Keyword: 2023 Acura Integra: Full Details Emerge