The 2024 Acura Integra Is a Cheaper, Superior Alternative to the Volkswagen Arteon
On the surface, the Acura Integra and Volkswagen Arteon might not seem like competitors. Acura is a premium brand, and Volkswagen is mainstream. The Integra has front-wheel drive, and the Arteon has all-wheel drive. However, both are upscale, thanks to the Arteon’s shared characteristics with its luxury cousins the Audi A4 and A5. So, let’s compare these two sedans and show how the 2024 Acura Integra’s price makes this smaller car look much more attractive than the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon.
2023 Volkswagen Arteon vs. 2024 Acura Integra: Price
One of the most significant advantages the Integra has over the Arteon is the MSRP. The 2024 Acura Integra’s base price is an enticing $31,500, while the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon starts at $43,010. Even at the top trim with the base engine, the Integra starts at $36,500, and the high-performance Integra Type S begins at $50,800.
2024 Integra vs. 2023 Arteon: Performance
One Volkswagen Arteon advantage is a more potent base engine and standard AWD. The Arteon packs a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Part of what makes the Integra so affordable is its relatively small base engine. It’s a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder making 200 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque.
That’s a big difference in performance specs. However, the Integra’s curb weight is about 850 pounds lighter than the Arteon, making the smaller car more agile and fuel-efficient.
Unfortunately for driving enthusiasts, the only transmission available in the Arteon is a seven-speed automatic. The Integra comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), but a six-speed manual is optional for drivers who prefer to row their own gears.
Then there’s the delightful Integra Type S. This high-performance variant packs a 2.0-liter turbo-four harnessing 320 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is the only transmission option.
Integra vs. Arteon: Interior
Another advantage of the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon is more interior space. Because it’s a larger car, the VW has 2.8 more inches of rear legroom and 2.9 more cubic feet of cargo space than the 2024 Integra.
That said, the Acura sedan has impressive cabin space for its size. The liftback design gives it a generous cargo hold for a small car, and you likely won’t hear complaints from rear-seat occupants.
In addition, the Integra A-Spec with Technology trim is well-equipped with luxurious features. This trim puts the car on par with the more expensive Arteon. According to Acura, features include an ELS Studio 3D 16-speaker audio system, 12-way power front seats with synthetic suede inserts, a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster, a wireless charging pad, and more.
Which upscale sedan is the better buy?
Despite the 2023 Volkswagen Arteon’s advantages — including standard AWD, a more robust base engine, and more interior space — the 2024 Acura Integra is a better buy. It has a much lower starting price, an available manual transmission, and the thrilling Type S with more power, more torque, and less weight than the Arteon.
If you’re looking for a practical family car, the Arteon might make more sense. However, the stylish, sporty, high-tech 2024 Acura Integra delivers plenty of value at an affordable price.
