2026 Acura Integra Expert Review
Reviewed by Billy Rehbock
Bringing back the iconic Integra nameplate is one of the best choices Acura has made in recent years. Boasting attractive design and a practical hatchback, the 2026 Acura Integra is one of the best small luxury cars on the market. A higher-end Type S model offers maximum driver engagement, although the thrills are accompanied by a high price tag.
Updates keep the 2026 Acura Integra competitive with the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe.
What’s New
The Integra name turns 40 this year. For the fifth-gen model’s refresh, also this year, the car gains new standard technology as well as interior and exterior styling upgrades.
Exterior
- The Integra A-Spec receives new 18-inch black wheels
- A-Spec models also pick up a new body kit with model-specific front fascia side spoilers and side sill garnish
- New paint colors: Solar Silver Metallic, Urban Gray Pearl, and Double Apex Blue Pearl, originally a ZDX Type S color
- Double Apex Blue Pearl or Performance Red Pearl models now feature a color-matched grille (a black grille is available)
- A color-matched grille is available for models painted Urban Gray Pearl or Platinum White Pearl
Interior
- Standard 9.0-inch touchscreen with faster processor
- Standard wireless phone mirroring
- Standard wireless phone charger
- Revised trim pattern on the dash
- A-Spec models gain more ambient lighting
- As with last year’s ADX SUV, 2026 Integra A-Spec variants with the Orchid interior receive blue microsuede inserts
- Integra A-Specs with the Ebony interior score yellow stitching on the seats, steering wheel, shift boot, and door panels
What We Think
The 2026 Acura Integra is a smart buy for a variety of reasons. Driving dynamics across the entire model range are as engaging as one would hope for from a nameplate that’s synonymous with fun. Acura equips the Integra with a lot of standard technology, and the cabin is spacious for passengers and cargo. A large hatch makes it easy to load and unload large items.
Type S models are more powerful and receive a variety of performance upgrades that make them a good choice for driving enthusiasts. As we had hoped, updates this year address both cosmetics and tech, and value improves even with lesser models in the lineup.
Shortcomings are few, but there are some downsides to the Integra. Although the sporty hatchback competes with small luxury sedans, it’s less luxurious than the price tag suggests. Road noise is also an issue, and it’s difficult to overlook some of the similarities between the Integra and the more mainstream Honda Civic with which it shares a platform.
We look forward to reconnecting with the updated Integra—particularly in testing—to see how the experience has changed.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
MotorTrend Tested
A 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine developing 200 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque carries over from last year, with the choice of a CVT automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. Regardless of transmission, the Integra accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds when equipped at the A-Spec trim level. FWD is standard—those hoping for a small Acura with all-wheel drive should check out the ADX subcompact SUV.
Swapping a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine in place of the standard model’s 1.5-liter turbo-four, the Integra Type S develops 320 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Type S is equipped exclusively with a manual transmission, and sends power to the front wheels. Acceleration to 60 mph takes just 5.2 seconds. Quicker competitors exist, but the Integra remains a great pick for overall driving fun.
The competing BMW 228 Gran Coupe is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that develops 252 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. BMW estimates the front-wheel-drive model will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds.
MPGs and Range
Unless Acura significantly revises the Integra’s aero for improved efficiency, expect its EPA ratings to mostly stay the same for 2026. For 2025, most CVT automatic models return 30/37 mpg city/highway, although A-Spec models return slightly less, with 29/36 mpg. Range totals 409 and 397 miles, respectively.
The manual Integra A-Spec is rated at 26/36 mpg and 372 miles of range.
With its bigger, thirstier engine, the manual-only Type S gets 21/28 mpg and only 298 miles of range.
Equipped with its 2.0-liter engine and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, fuel economy for the 228 Gran Coupe FWD is 26/38 mpg city/highway, on par with the Integra A-Spec.
Safety Ratings and Features
The Acura Integra has posted good safety ratings since it was reintroduced, and we expect strong scores to continue for 2026. Most recently, the Integra picked up a 2025 Top Safety Pick from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.
The AcuraWatch suite of active safety features carries over into 2026. As standard, every Integra includes:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keeping
- Traffic sign recognition
- Blind-spot monitoring with a rear cross-traffic alert
- Automatic high beams
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Legroom compares favorably to most rivals in the segment. Note that hatchback and sedan cargo volumes are measured differently, so the comparison shown is imperfect.
Technology
Infotainment
A 9.0-inch color touchscreen—2.0 inches larger than the outgoing interface on base and some A-Spec models—is now standard with every 2026 model. A wireless phone charging pad also becomes standard this year, along with a single USB-A port for the first row as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Sound System
An eight-speaker audio system carries over as the base setup. A 16-speaker arrangement is also available.
Available Upgrades
Moving up through the trim walk unlocks rain-sensing wipers, a head-up display, Wi-Fi hotspot, powered front passenger seat, and dual-zone climate control, among other features.
Value
Standard Features
Every Integra delivers good driving dynamics, plenty of space for people and things, and a generous set of driver assists. These are supplemented for 2026 with more standard tech for the lowest trim, including a bigger standard touchscreen, wireless phone mirroring, and a wireless phone charger.
The Integra is also one of the lowest-priced luxury vehicles available today.
Recommended Trim
We think the A-Spec with Technology is a solid middleground between the base model and the awesome-but-expensive Type S. Pricing that should begin around $40,000 makes it the most affordable way to get an available six-speed manual Integra, and the limited-slip differential and adaptive suspension make it a solid choice for those who love a hands-on driving experience.
