2023 Acura Integra vs. Acura TLX: A Real-World Sibling Comparison
If you’re looking for a luxury sedan, Acura is a great place to start. Unlike many German competitors, Acura has a small lineup of cars with value-packed trim levels. Two popular cars in the Japanese automaker’s stable are the midsize TLX and the compact Integra. We have had the pleasure of driving both of these models, and although they are pretty similar, they are also very different. Check out this real-world comparison between these two siblings.
2023 Acura Integra vs. 2023 Acura TLX: The larger engine makes normal driving more fun
The 2023 Acura Integra is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that can either be mated to a CVT or a six-speed manual transmission that transmits 200 hp to the front wheels. We had the chance to test out the six-speed manual version and could not get over how buttery smooth the shifts were. Additionally, the car’s 192 lb-ft of torque provides plenty of thrust when getting onto the freeway, but we felt like we had to spin the engine to redline to really get the car moving.
The 2023 Acura TLX, on the other hand, is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that’s mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, which transmits 272 hp to the front wheels. However, an all-wheel drive setup is an option for this car. We were able to drive the TLX around the mountains of Colorado and were thoroughly impressed with its strong power from idle up to the redline.
The 280 lb-ft of torque also made the car more lively at lower speeds because we didn’t need to wring the engine out to get moving. If you’re shopping between these two cars and don’t want to pin the accelerator pedal to get the car up to speed quickly, the Acura TLX is the one to pick.
The interiors of both cars are similar, but Acura Integra’s controls are easier to use
Moving to the inside of the cars, both of them are laid out and equipped similarly. They even had red seats thanks to their similar A-Spec packages. However, we like the Acura Integra’s 9-inch infotainment display a little more. Although it’s one inch smaller than the split-screen layout you’ll find in the TLX, it’s a touchscreen, so it’s easier to use. The one in the TLX uses the brand’s True Touchpad in the center console, which works well but is a little cumbersome.
As for the rest of the interior, the TLX uses buttons for the HVAC controls, while the Acura Integra uses knobs. Both work just fine, but we liked the retro styling in the Integra – the metallic grilles over the vents are a nice touch as well. As for tech features, both Acuras had heated front seats, the AcuraWatch suite of driver aids, wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto, and USB ports in the first and second rows.
Both of them were also outfitted with the ELS premium sound system, which sounds amazing no matter which model you choose.
Of course, the TLX’s cabin felt more spacious and comfortable since it’s the bigger car, but the Integra doesn’t feel cramped by any means. We liked spending time in both cabins; however, the Integra’s technology felt a little more intuitive during the week we had it.
Which car got better gas mileage?
As you can expect, we were able to get better fuel economy in the Acura Integra. Our real-world driving averaged around 34 mpg, while we managed to get around 30 mpg in the TLX. Having a heavy right foot while driving at a mile-high elevation could have something to do with it. But either way, we recommend the Integra over the TLX when fuel efficiency is a factor.
2023 Acura Integra vs. Acura TLX: Which sedan should you get?
It’s easy to see that the 2023 Acura TLX has more power and space than the 2023 Acura Integra, so if you need comfort, that’s the one to go with. However, if you like having an agile compact sedan that can still haul five adults and plenty of stuff, we recommend the Integra.
The added plus is that the Integra costs around $31,000 while the TLX starts at around $39,000, so you’ll save money in addition to having similar features – provided you don’t mind the lack of extra power.
