The Integra nameplate was resurrected after almost 20 years for Acura’s premium entry-level sedan. The updated 2023 Acura Integra retains all of the things that made the original car special, including a fun, engaging driving experience, attractive styling, and a reasonable price. 

Also, like the original, it’s practical with a rear hatchback and reasonable room. It rides and drives like the Honda Civic it’s based on yet feels more upscale with more premium options like the ELS 3D surround sound stereo. The Integra competes with cars such as the BMW 2 Series Grand Coupe, and Mercedes-Benz CLA. However, its closest rival may be the Audi A3. Compared to the Audi A3, it offers three advantages. 

1. The 2023 Acura Integra has a lower starting price

At $30,800, the Acura Integra has a lower base price than the Audi A3 and is less expensive when fully equipped. Loaded with options, it tops out under $40,000, per Kelley Blue Book. This makes the Acura Integra value one of the best in the entry-level luxury sedan category. In fact, the Integra’s base puts it closer to cars like the Volkswagen Golf GTI which starts at $29,545.  

The Audi A3 starts at around $35K and can go above $50K. For other small premium sedans, the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class starts at $38K, and the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe starts around $36K. 

2. The 2023 Acura Integra has an available manual transmission

Manual transmissions are a rarity, but not if you opt for the Integra A-Spec with the Technology package. It offers a smooth, precise six-speed manual. It’s ideal if you like to row your own gears, with close gear ratios, a short-throw shifter, and even rev-matching on downshifts. The Technology package adds an adaptive, sport-tuned suspension and variable-ratio steering, making it even more rewarding to drive. 

The other cars in the Integra’s class only come with automatic transmissions, including the Audi A3. While the overwhelming majority of drivers opt for an automatic gearbox, the manual option is a nice tribute to the original Integra. 

3. The new Acura Integra has more interior space

The Acura Integra shares a platform with the Honda Civic; it’s a larger car than its competitors. As a result, the Integra has more interior space than the A3, including more rear legroom and 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space compared to 10.9 for the Audi. The liftback design also makes the most of that space. And with the fold-down rear seats, it can haul a variety of large, bulky items.   

The new Acura Integra also feels more spacious. Thin pillars enhance outward vision, eliminating the bunker-like feel of some cars. The dashboard design adds to the feeling of spaciousness with an intuitive layout for all of the controls. Red needles for the gauges, stainless steel pedals, and contrast stitching on the steering wheel, seats, and shifter come with the A-Spec package.

A 7-inch touchscreen serves as the base infotainment interface. The Technology package increases the screen size to 9 inches and adds adjustments for the suspension and handling. It also includes the ELS Studio sound system with 3D surround sound speakers.