Finding the trim that nails the Integra’s missionThe 2026 Acura Integra remains one of the market’s most compelling premium compact sedans, taking an athletic, tech-forward approach at a relatively affordable cost. However, with four trims to choose from, ranging in price from $33,400 to $53,400, each grade has trade-offs in MSRP, driving character, and daily usability. We’ll be highlighting which trim offers the best balance of value, driving enjoyment, and livability, compared to more specialized or situational options. Below is a breakdown of the 2026 Acura Integra’s grades, zeroing in on interior perks, tech features, and everyday amenities to help streamline your buying decision. Integra - $33,400Acura’s entry-level Integra is the most affordable way to get the model’s 1.5-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, which is standard on all trims except the peak Type S. This engine produces 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque while offering 29/37 city/highway MPG, aided by its continuously variable transmission (CVT). The base Integra’s core safety suite is impressive, but you’ll miss out on front/rear parking sensors, automatic low-speed braking control (1 to 6 mph), and rain-sensing wipers. You’ll primarily be trading visual drama and track hardware for comfort, efficiency, and daily refinement with this trim. The interior keeps things comfortable via standard features such as an 8-way power driver’s seat, leatherette-trimmed seating surfaces, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Silver-painted interior trim and ambient lighting make things feel less bare bones, and the 9-inch touchscreen display is standard across all grades. The main tech sacrifice you’ll make is the lack of a head-up display. Acura’s entry-level Integra suits budget-conscious buyers preferring a premium compact without sport-pack flair. Integra A-Spec Package - $35,950 The Integra A-Spec Package features the same engine and CVT with paddle shifters as the base, but adds a more aggressive exterior and sportier interior accents. Instead of 17-inch Silver aluminum alloy wheels, you’ll receive 18-inch Black wheels found on upper trims, a gloss Black spoiler, and a refined side sill garnish. Still, Acura balances this exterior flair with functional additions like LED fog lights. Inside, the A-Spec Interior Sport Appearance Package features stainless-steel sport pedals, red gauge needles, and dark-metal-film interior trim, complemented by ambient LED door accents. Safety and connectivity mirror the entry-level Integra, with features like a base 8-speaker audio system remaining. The Integra A-Spec Package’s driving experience remains relaxed and practical like its entry-level counterpart, tuned for more curb appeal rather than hardcore handling. This could be viewed as an upside or a downside, depending on your priorities, but buyers who prioritize looks over meaningful performance or tech upgrades should consider it a valid option. Need new tires? Save up to 30% at Tire RackFind the perfect tires for your exact vehicle and driving style. Click here to shop all top-tier brands, including Michelin, Bridgestone, and more, directly at Tire Rack. Integra A-Spec with Technology Package CVT - $39,200 / Integra A-Spec with Technology Package 6MT - $39,200 When it comes to considering the Integra A-Spec with Technology Package CVT versus the Integra A-Spec with Technology Package 6MT, it’s not about which has more features. Instead, you’re selecting a certain driving experience and daily character at the same starting price. The CVT is the comfort-first version, trading a stick and adaptive dampers for smoother behavior. You’ll want this trim if your needs emphasize relaxed commuting and easy-going road manners. In comparison, the 6MT’s manual and adaptive dampers establish a firmer ride and more adjustable handling. Just think of the 6MT as the sport-tuned version of the same hardware. While the 6MT offers greater driver control and a more connected feel, there’s a difference in fuel economy. The CVT version offers 29/37 city/highway mpg, and the 6MT provides 26/36 city/highway mpg. However, this efficiency difference is minor enough that most enthusiasts can overlook it. Whichever trim you choose, both add front and rear parking sensors, low-speed automatic braking control, and rain-sensing wipers. Integra Type S - $53,400The Integra Type S is the track-oriented, no-compromise performance version of the Integra. This is the only Integra that features a 2.0‑liter turbo four‑cylinder paired with a 6-speed manual, making 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, with a redline of 7,000 rpm instead of 6,500. Fuel economy is naturally lower than other trims at 21/28 city/highway mpg, but Type S buyers aren’t prioritizing mileage. You’ll also receive exclusive perks like an active exhaust valve, dual-axis strut front suspension rather than MacPherson strut front suspension (providing sharper and more precise steering), and Brembo 4-Piston aluminum front brake calipers. Regarding aesthetics, the Type S stands out with 19-inch Shark Gray wheels, a dedicated Type S wide-body aero kit with red-painted Brembos, triple exhaust outlets, and a gloss black rear diffuser. Perforated ultrasuede-trimmed with Type S embossed head restraints and the Technology Package’s front 12-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support strike an ideal balance between interior form and function. The Black Ultrasuede shift boot with colored stitching is the icing on the cake. Final thoughtsThe 2026 Acura Integra A-Spec with Technology Package 6MT is the smartest buy, thanks to its design that maximizes what most buyers in this segment actually need: a fun, tech‑loaded daily driver that doesn’t cross into overkill. Remaining trims are either for specific shoppers targeting budget, style, or track, moving further from that ideal mix. Picking the A-Spec with Technology Package 6MT feels like a sports car splurge, but it can perform like a daily driver. Be sure to test drive the 2026 Acura Integra A-Spec with Technology Package 6MT before making a purchase, and check out Road Ethos for more car-buying guides.