Acura Integra vs. Lexus IS: Which Luxury Compact Car Is More Popular?
As the urban lifestyle becomes more prevalent, owning a compact luxury car is no longer just for the privileged few. From the best upscale amenities to the latest driving technology, these cars make daily commutes more enjoyable and convenient. Their small size and fuel-efficient engines also appeal to city dwellers. The Acura Integra and Lexus IS are two examples of excellent luxury compact cars. These rivals have pros and cons. So, which model do most shoppers choose?
Acura Integra vs. Lexus IS sales numbers
With year-to-date sales numbers, the Acura Integra makes a strong statement about its popularity. The 2023 model is the first Integra built in America, with production in Marysville, Ohio. Since its launch, the 2023 Integra has enjoyed smashing success, becoming the best-selling model in its segment. Its sales topped 16,514 units in the first half of 2023.
By contrast, the Lexus IS has not seen as much success this year. Although it’s still a popular choice among premium car buyers, sales lag behind Acura Integra’s. According to Toyota, Lexus sold 11,114 IS units in the first half of 2023.
That gives the Acura Integra an edge in popularity, with sales nearly 20% higher than those of the Lexus IS.
Why is the Acura Integra more popular than the Lexus IS?
Though the difference in sales numbers suggests the Acura Integra is more popular this year, what’s causing such a contrast? Looking into the details of both luxury compact cars reveals vital differences that could explain why the Acura Integra is selling better than the Lexus IS.
With the 2023 model, the Acura Integra triumphantly returned to the lineup. Its sleek styling and impressive handling make it stand out from other cars in its class. That gives it an advantage over the Lexus IS, which hasn’t had a significant redesign since 2021.
Furthermore, the 2024 Acura Integra is already available for purchase with an array of special offers. That means buyers looking for a luxury compact car with the latest features and tech can already get their hands on the newest Integra. They’ll have to wait for the next-generation Lexus IS, which likely won’t arrive until the end of this year.
Comparing other factors
The Acura Integra not only offers more availability than the Lexus IS, but it’s also less expensive. The 2023 Integra starts at about $31,300, whereas the Lexus IS 300 costs at least $41,000.
Regarding performance, the standard Integra packs a turbo-charged 1.5-liter inline-four engine making 200 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the Lexus IS offers three engine options. They are a 2.0-liter turbo-four producing 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5-liter V6 generating 260 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, and the F Sport Performance’s 5.0-liter V8 harnessing 472 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque.
Though both luxury compact cars get excellent gas mileage, the Integra is more fuel-efficient. It achieves an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. Meanwhile, the Lexus IS 300 gets 21/31 mpg city/highway.
As for features and tech, both cars are well-equipped with upscale amenities for an enjoyable driving experience. However, the Acura Integra has an edge over the Lexus IS thanks to premium interior options.
Inside the Acura Integra, drivers can enjoy features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, available ambient cabin lighting, and heated front seats with 12-way power adjustability and a memory function. It also features a technologically advanced 10.2-in digital instrument cluster, which displays essential information in high-resolution graphics.
Overall, the Acura Integra and Lexus IS offer great value for money. But this year’s sales numbers indicate more people are choosing the Integra. With its sleek design, impressive performance, array of features, and competitive pricing, Acura’s luxury compact car is hard to beat.
