2026 Acura Integra Review: What’s New and What Still Works
I drove the 2026 Integra for a few days and it slowly won me over in ways I did not expect
The first thing I did after sitting inside the 2026 Acura Integra was take a deep breath and look around. It felt calm. Not flashy. Just right. As I pulled out onto the road, I kept thinking one thing. Is this really worth more than a Civic Si? After spending real time with it, I finally had my answer.
Under the hood, nothing dramatic has changed, and that is not a bad thing. The Integra still uses the same 1.5-liter turbo engine with 200 horsepower. I drove the A-Spec with the six-speed manual, and honestly, this is how the Integra should be driven. The clutch is light. The gear shifts feel clean. Even in traffic, I never felt tired. You can choose the CVT if you want better fuel economy, but if you love driving, you will enjoy every shift.
The ride quality surprised me. City roads were broken and uneven, yet the car stayed comfortable. On curvy roads, it stayed planted and confident. Sport mode adds energy, Normal works best for daily driving, and Individual mode lets you fine-tune things your way. I mostly stayed in Normal, and it felt just right.
Here is a simple look at what the Integra offers:
| Feature | Details |
| Engine | 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Power | 200 hp, 192 lb-ft torque |
| Transmission | CVT or 6-speed manual |
| Infotainment | 9-inch touchscreen standard |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 37 mpg highway with CVT |
| Body Style | Hatchback with folding rear seats |
Inside, Acura has clearly listened to feedback. The new touchscreen is bigger and easier to use, and Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless charging are now standard. I liked the new seat colors and stitching. The digital gauge screen is clear and simple, and the optional ELS sound system sounds amazing, especially on long drives.
The back seat is roomy. Adults can sit comfortably. The hatchback makes this car very practical and I easily fit bags, groceries, and even camera gear without effort.
Now the honest part. The Integra is fun to drive and easy to live with. It feels more premium than before. The downside is the price. It still costs more than the Civic Si, and some screens could look sharper. But the extra comfort, design touches, and practicality help justify it.
If you want a sporty car that you can drive every day without stress, the 2026 Acura Integra makes sense. It does not try too hard. It just works.
