The Integra name has always resonated with Acura enthusiasts. The legendary Type R and current Type S are synonymous with top-tier performance, but what about the less performance-focused models? Throughout the 1990s, even lesser Integras brought more to the table than their competitors, so we snagged the keys to a 2024 Acura Integra A-Spec Elite to see if it keeps that spirit alive.
Built on the 11th-generation Honda Civic’s bones, the Integra is already off to a good start. It’s an impressive platform that, like its predecessor, makes the Integra feel sportier than most other compacts out there. But where the Integra Type S and Civic Type R are both heavy hitters, the Integra A-Spec’s equivalent is the Civic Si. Here, the Honda is the sportier choice of the two; the A-Spec leans more towards luxury, and as a result, it has more mass to lug around. It’s one of the several reasons you may choose one over the other, which I’ll get into shortly.
From a design standpoint, the Integra A-Spec is certainly a looker. The lines all around are chiselled and clean, looking appreciably different than the Civic that shares the same platform. Another big difference between the two: Acura embraces its roots here and only offers the Integra as a liftback, whereas the Civic Si remains a traditional sedan. But as much as we love the look, we’re not so impressed with the Integra’s limted colour options: Lunar Silver is the only no-cost option, and you can choose from Majestic Black Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, Liquid Carbon Metallic, all for an extra $500. It’s worth noting that Performance Red Pearl, the only non-greyscale colour option, has been discontinued for the 2025 model year. For a sporty car, some more eye-catching hues would be nice.
Inside the Integra, the similarities to the Civic are more apparent. The overall design and layout, right down to the air vents, are pretty much identical, albeit with upgraded materials used throughout. Like the Civic, the Integra’s interior is well-thought-out and everything is easily within reach of the driver. You won’t be overwhelmed with tech, but there’s more than enough to satisfy most. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are present, along with wireless charging, heads-up display, a nine-inch display running Honda’s touchscreen-based infotainment instead of Acura’s trackpad-based system, and an all-digital instrument cluster. However, I will say this: during a very hot day, I missed having ventilated seats. They aren’t offered on any Integra trim.
Power is one area where the non-Type-S Integra falls somewhat flat. Having the same powertrain as the Civic Si might’ve been exciting two decades ago, but times change. The 1.5L turbo-four, rated at 200 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, seems lethargic especially paired to the A-Spec’s CVT, but the optional six-speed manual spices up the drive. Besides, ride and handling is where the Integra shines, feeling composed on twisty roads yet it won’t beat you up on your commute.
If you want to chase Hyundai Elantra Ns or Subaru WRXs, you might want to step up to the Type S, but the Integra A-Spec does benefit from impressive fuel economy with the 1.5L engine. It’s rated at 8.1 L/100 kilometres city, 6.5 highway, and 7.4 combined. During my time with the Integra A-Spec, I achieved a respectable 7.9 L/100 km in mixed driving. Premium fuel is recommended to fill its 46-litre tank, though.
Pricing for the 2024 Integra starts at $38,850 for the base A-Spec trim. Even the base Integra is well-equipped, with features like 18-inch wheels, heated seats and steering wheel, LED lighting, and Acura’s full suite of driver assists standard, including lane-departure warning, forward collision alert, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic monitoring, and blind-spot monitoring. Our A-Spec Elite tester tops out at $44,850 depending on what shade of grey you want, before any applicable fees and taxes. It’s worth noting that Acura has released details for the 2025 Integra, and prices have increased by at least $1,000 across the board.
At the end of the day, the 2024 Acura Integra A-Spec Elite can’t hide its Civic roots. While the chassis is great, the Integra and Civic share too much to feel appreciably different from each other, let alone to justify the price difference. As it stands, the Integra is a good effort in a vacuum, but more power, a more distinctive interior, and upgraded technology — perhaps the 2025 MDX’s new touchscreen, instead of the touchpad interface — would all be steps in the right direction.
