Acura's Integra Is Liftback Answer To The 2-Series and CLA, But The Type S? It Needs AWD To Win...

BMW and Mercedes might dominate when it comes to high dollar sedans and SUVs, but Acura cleans up when it comes to value. The best selling 3-row luxury SUV is the MDX and the best selling small luxury sedan is, you guessed it, the Acura Integra. Not everyone will be a fan of the "grown up Civic" vibes, but honestly that's both the Integra's biggest selling point and the biggest thorn in it's side as well....
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[@hby7768]

88k for a cla is wild

[@realnapster1522]

M2 is better.

[@gladdy02]

The fact that the Integra has more leg room then the far larger TLX is crazy to me.

[@bikingmoments]

Not 100% true. TLX has much longer seats to adequately support your thigh, and it feels more premium.

[@Spikejou]

@@bikingmomentsThe length of the bottom cushion doesn’t affect legroom. It is measured from the backrest area.

[@Marbind]

@@bikingmomentscorrection, feels more tight.😂

[@neuronbob]

This is exactly why I chose an ITS over the TLX Type S. I don’t care about the loss of AWD.

[@TheBreakfastLover]

​@@Spikejouactually the better metric is combined leg room (front + back), since the amount of legroom in the back depends on how much legroom the front passengers occupy.

[@steverogers7211]

No rear air vents for the rear is an incredibly stupid cost cutting move.

[@soulside]

Agreed. Honda puts them in the Civic hybrid in Europe so it’s definitely possible.

[@Marbind]

My kids never had an issue in the back. The main unit conditions the cabin pretty fast. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@SpinachLeaf]

Rear vents cooled seats and optional auto and/or AWD and this thing would have stomped the anything at it's price point.

[@TheBreakfastLover]

You can actualy install the rear vent kit from the Civic, but the fact you have to do that is stupid.

[@Marbind]

@@SpinachLeaf that will add weight and cost. Agility will suffer. This will never happen at the same price.

[@mentorofarisia371]

In a recent trip from Michigan to Florida in an A-Spec with CVT, we made the first 250 miles without any traffic slowdowns. With easy driving, not exceeding 74 mph, and mostly in 65-72 mph range, we saw an average for 250 miles of 46.7 mpg. For the entire 975 miles with some very long stop-and-go and a detour that combined to total about 2 hours, we still saw an average of 43.8 mpg. The trip going the other way, with speeds mostly in the 75-80 mph range we saw a trip average of 38 mpg for 950 miles.

[@louiszhang3050]

I'm sorry but I really disagree with this review. I feel like you completely ignored the *mission* of the car. The Integra Type-S wasn't supposed to be the most "fast and capable" car but for a more enthusiast-minded driver who enjoys the emotional and connected aspect behind driving, namely something with a manual. You largely ignored that aspect of the car, which is extremely unfair to the Integra Type-S.

[@Marbind]

This car is basically a nicer CTR that is easier to live as a daily. That is the best way to describe it. It has exactly the same hardware. Both perform similar times at the track when tires are equal.

[@adamm.1367]

This guy gets it... road noise? Who cares. Roll them windows down and listen to the pops & bang come out the valved exhaust 😎

[@chrisocampo5899]

This 💯

[@MonkeyPower55]

Judging by the dealer mark ups on the Type S, I don’t think the absence of an automatic transmission is an issue.

[@ManchurianCounterweight]

so tired of car dealers. I hate them so much. What a blight.

[@MonkeyPower55]

They need to go away@@ManchurianCounterweight

[@RELPOWER]

The dealers are just dululu, these cars barely worth the MSRP

[@MonkeyPower55]

Car prices are going down. Hold off on buying.

[@DrunkMcChanic]

They’re at or below MSRP now

[@jsonlee01]

Alex: I didn’t want to roast the clutch Sofyan: Hold my beer! 😂😂😂

[@sachinnair91]

I like both of them but I wish they would review more affordable cars like the Mirage, Venue, base Corolla, base Elantra etc

[@kenjikenjikenj]

​@@sachinnair91unfortunately I don't think manufacturers/dealers are sending those out to review. I also speculate that they don't do as well in the KZbin metrics

[@MayhemJ]

1:12 I thought I had something on my screen😂

[@neuronbob]

I live in a snowy area and I own an ITS. I use snow tires on another set of wheels, and I know how to drive in snow. Problem solved, it’s not a big deal, was not a big deal this winter. I’d rather have the weight savings from lacking AWD, and the snappier handling that comes along with that. Plus, I can always drive wifey’s SUV if absolutely necessary. I say this, loving SH-AWD and having owned multiple Acura SH-AWD products. Last: ITS and TLX S are totally different cars with different missions. Both are great👍🏽

[@jsonlee01]

Alex, the length comparison is very helpful but it would be better if there was some sort of scale to the chart to give some context. The Integra is a huge jump compared to the cars on the left side of the bar, but are we talking one inch or five inches? We can’t tell.

[@nintendoatarikiller]

Not being able to store a BBQ in my luxury sedan is a huge deal breaker. Will definitely keep Integra at the top of my list 🤠

[@drsg9124]

Not sure if you're saying that in jest but I need a car that can do home depot / costco runs and this fits the bill

[@MilushevGeorgi]

I check all my car purchases with Alex. So far got 2016 rav4 hybrid, 2016 mustang GT, and a 2023 Rubicon 4xe

[@paul8699]

Please keep the grade ratings for noise and economy. Numbers aren't bad but when comparing I trust your experience more. Plus, 73 dB means very little as different frequency plots heavily affect the perceived comfort level.

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

I put an Integra Type S in my garage. I'm in SoCal. No AWD needed. I used to own a 2022 TLX Type S. It was a great car as well.

[@waynerogers6621]

No one needs AWD unless they leave for work before the roads are plowed. I drove a FWD Camry in the pocono mountains with a set of Blizzacks for years with no problems.

[@jnagime]

I have a Infiniti Q50 Redsport and I was looking into this last week,less power than the Q50 but has a manual transmission more fun for sure. I am 43 years old Q50 is my first automatic car and man I miss the third pedal so much.

[@billm47645]

I own an ASpec Manual. Early 2023 model. It’s not quite “Acura” enough IMO. Too noisy on the highway, I’m older, I need to be able to have a normal Bluetooth phone conversation on rough pavement for both work and personal issues. Also, its isolation over expansion joints and rougher pavement is not quite Acura as well. Front seat comfort is also not Acura. We’ve owned two RDXes. They had great seats and the ELS radio in the RDXes was much better. Case in point about the isolation. Normally, I use our Model Y for roadtripping with our 18lb dog. But I took the Integra. There were multiple expansion joints and bumps where she was sleeping in her bed or resting where she got up to see what happened. That almost never happens in our Model Y or RDX. To me, the biggest competition to the Type S is actually the Golf R. Especially next year, when they refresh the screen / infotainment and make other small tweaks. That’s likely what I will swap out ASPEC manual for.😉

[@ShaiyanHossain]

you bought a nicer civic, cope. also VW isn't updating the Golf R with the same level of interior ergonomics and they're ditching the manual so gg

[@SteveBlancoMusicianWarrior]

My girl just got one. That car is incredible.

[@Mr99Burns]

Loved my test drive in the integra type S The quality of the manual takes it to the next level. TLX type S don't like the dash and its just a big sedan

[@wraedeohed9988]

"It's missing an automatic transmission"....LOL. Pretty sure Honda did this on purpose, and it definitely isn't hurting sales. Honda is passionate about the driving experience, which is specifically why it has no automatic transmission.

[@hankhillsnrrwurethra]

On Leno's Garage the lead designer says they had to fight corporate to keep it manual only.

[@judisabino]

Really good review, thinking about purchasing the Integra A spec w teh. Great vehicle, to me it’s the fun factor.

[@dennislau2227]

As Alex stated, though he reviewed the Type S, this is for the whole Integra line. For most of the country, AWD is not needed. Front drive is quite sufficient. Type S, while probably the most fun to drive, is a poor representation of the Integra line (minimal sales, hard to find at MSRP unlike the base and A Spec). Most who buy a $60-70k Type S out the door (w/ mkt adj above sticker) are not driving this daily; again, unlike the base or an A Spec. Complaining about noise with those beefy tires and exhaust..., well, that's this particular car's nature. For most using an Integra as a daily, get the A Spec w/ Tech + touring tires; set it on comfort mode and it'll drive quite nicely. That ELS is a killer system. Also, way cheaper to insure...

[@funnyfarm299]

As much as I would love to agree with this, 200 hp doesn’t cut it for a lot of shoppers in today’s market. My 15 year old GLI makes more power.

[@janoycresnova9156]

AWD is needed when you have more than 300 HP going to only front wheels. It's not about snow or ice. You will be spinning wheels like a moron in any weather. Makes all that power somewhat pointless.

[@uncalm]

​@@funnyfarm299 Oh wow, I didn't realize the lower trims only made 200hp! With the Type S making 320hp, I thought the lower trims would be around 240 or so. On the upside, I guess they all have relatively light curb weights?

[@typhoonmma]

@@janoycresnova9156AWD would make the car slower and heavier. Take into account it would need more hp and a bunch of conversions to compensate for that type of drivetrain. It’s pointless.

[@Marbind]

Alex, the parking sensors and rain sensing wipers are standard in the ITS.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, There is so much to admire about this Integra but you left one critical question unanswered, with that tricky three outlet exhaust set up, where does the trailer hitch go? 🤔😉

[@LifeOn18Wheels]

Who's towing with a car like this?

[@MichihiroHonda]

​@@LifeOn18Wheelslol, that went over your head.....🤡

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@MichihiroHonda👍

[@JohnNguyenVincent]

I have one, and it's such a fun car to drive!

[@samuelmejorada2276]

Broke people complaining about the price need to get a nissan versa, this is 2024, named another performance hatch with 320 hp, honda reliability and a sweet manual transmission, probably one of the best in the market, what you get for your dollar is actually a pretty good deal.

[@Marbind]

They can’t. Some might say golf r or GR corolla but both are smaller with less interior space. Both are slower around the track too, meaning that they inspire less confidence when you drive them hard out there.

[@bm717252]

Your right on the money. We’re in the times of inflation.

[@Marbind]

@@MikeForsythe Only lost people that don’t understand the purpose of this car make dumb comments like this. You can get all that with the TLX with the penalty of the 1000 pounds, reduced agility and engaging experience.

[@vjdfl5]

​@@MikeForsythe cringe level of dumb lol

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@@MikeForsythe because i really care about rear seat vents when I'm hustling a car around the backroads or a corner on a track, right?

[@austinpfoster]

My quick look at the Integra Type-S made me feel better about having the TLX Type-S. Though, I do wish I the TLX had a 3-pedal option.

[@Marbind]

Real life story My quick look at the TLX-S made me feel better having the integra type s. Having a car as big as a full size with less cabin space than a compact never made sense to me.

[@austinpfoster]

@@MarbindI’m actually with you there. I don’t like how big the TLX is. I prefer TSX size. That being said, when I first saw the integra, I found the fit and finish to be a bit lacking compared to my TLX. (Though, my Integra issue may simply be caused by the sample size of 1)

[@jpking0]

I love it when people complain so much about lack of charge ports and rear vents in the back. I mean sure, those would be nice creature comforts if I had 2 friends or family riding in the back…. But this is a car for enthusiasts… aka me. As long as my partner is comfortable in the front then it’s all gravy baby. Oh, what’s that friends 3 and 4? Phone losing charge? Gee, guess we’ll have to talk, or just play music from my CarPlay

[@jensendkmg7209]

I mean, for the 50K they demand, it's a hard thing to justify not having.

[@Marbind]

Dont buy it simple as that. This car is for thise that want an easier to libe CTR. Nothing more.

[@jpking0]

@@jensendkmg7209 and it’s a completely fair judgement. From what I’ve been reading the design team seemed super focused on a metric of making this car the fastest hp per lb on this car possible, hence why they didn’t even add passenger electric seating. My biggest beef is for how special this car is they should have added 360 camera and it also needed to come with auto-folding mirrors and auto-adjust for parking assist. This car def deserved those comforts, plus memory seats like the A-Spec. From what I read on the forums, there is actually air coming in the back through under the seats. Haven’t felt it myself in the back, but there is air. I do hope the next model year or two includes those small changes, but for me personally I’m basically treating this car like a 2-seater with extra cargo space for daily life.

[@TheKingkingg]

Quick answer is yes. But good thing there are choices, but this is my choice and I'm very happy

[@stuntmonkey00]

About that base engine... are people with the Si/Integra turbo 1.5's experiencing the same head gasket issues that Civic/CR-V/Accord owners are. The bolts on the 87 octane engines were apparently designed too weak for the combustion pressures, so they stretch out over time causing headgasket leaks. It seems to be a growing problem as more cars come out of warranty. But the Si/Integra run with 91, so one assumes that the engine is different in some ways.

[@naveenthemachine]

If there was a problem everyone in the world would already know about it Plus as Alex has said before Honda makes millions of 1.5T engines and if there was a problem we would already know by now

[@stuntmonkey00]

@@naveenthemachineYes, in fact it is a widely discussed issue, lots of mechanics are commenting about the increasing number of L15 head gasket problems they are seeing.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@@naveenthemachine lol this is a WELL documented issue amongst the biggest honda fanbois.

[@kyolml]

can you even get the Integra type s MSRP? dealer still pulling mark up on this. I don't exactly sure if you can compare all these in the same category. Civic Type R and this Honda trying to sell them to enthusiast that wants a manual, so they are not making a lot of them. They try to sell it as 911 GT3 for the masses, so low volumn high mark up, so you think you can get them at $52k but in fact it's $60k, people still buy this more so than any M235i or S3 since they are just not enough to go around

[@SIIKAP1]

Yes, easily. Even Type R can be found at MSRP fairly easily now.

[@Marbind]

Easier than the CTR. I got mine ITS at MSRP in summer. Never found a CTR. Go to integraforums site and look for the thread called “List of Honest Acura Dealerships For Type S (MSRP vs Markup List -- Integra Type S)”

[@Marbind]

Go to integraforums and find this thread. List of Honest Acura Dealerships For Type S (MSRP vs Markup List -- Integra Type S)

[@jh9363]

yep...I got one in Oct for MSRP

[@invntiv3281]

I'm getting my Type-S for MSRP

[@williamconrad1087]

We just bought a 24 with the 1.5 MT and our loving it. Awd would be great but wife’s car has that. When we want to go fast we’ll take our C7 with the 7spd MT.

[@MRDARRENGER]

Much prefer a Golf R for about $10k less, more fully equipped and better all around performance and comfort.

[@Marbind]

Correction 7K less. Also disagree with the comfort statement. The integra has more passenger volume than the Golf. More cargo space too. Now one important detail about the Golf is that you can seat 3 passengers in the rear. Two things prevented me to go to the VW dealer to check them out. 1) Hate how close rear passenger are to the rear hatch. Too short to have my kids seat in there. 2) I will prefer Honda engineering over VW any day. Especially if the plan is to keep it for a long time.

[@CherylBeachlerRizzo]

It was also easy to find last year. They were on the lot. Civics, Mazda 3's, and Impreza's were difficult to find.

[@cabaneencac5168]

Civic type-R or this Integra ? in both cases it means a Dynamat job on the floor, on the doors ,on the firewall , on the wheel wells. A nice week of dismantling and rolling ahead with an increase in curb weight but I planned a rear seat delete anyway.

[@Daveyboy_GolfR]

As much as I love these looks, I'd have to take a BMW 230i x drive with m sport package (has m240i body kit) over the type s.

[@dalecackowski9259]

Acuras are beautiful, tight and buttoned down. I need AWD and less noise for my $$$. The TLX is closer, but not quite there for me. Lots of compelling SUV options and the upcoming 24/25's like the Toyota Signia have my attention...especially being a Hybrid with cargo and ground clearance is compelling. The German cars are cool, but I got no dealers in the area to help me...and maintenance costs. Genesis is doing great things. I want to test drive some.

[@justaddafan]

I'm surprised Alex has such a high regard for the BMW 4 door 2 series. It's a Mini FWD platform, and not a particularly fun one. It feels very front heavy in my experience.

[@naveenthemachine]

But bmws are fast and they definitely drive better than minis. Bmw like Honda knows performance and driving dynamics.

[@justaddafan]

@@naveenthemachine Not the 2 series, it feels every bit the nose heavy FWD car that it is. The top level 2 even has the same engines as the Mini. I was not impressed.

[@prashanthsiddalingaiah5914]

I had a type R. It was too loud on the highway for road trips. Waited for Type S hoping it would be quieter. Guess not. Bummer.

[@Marbind]

Is the same car 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@MrDIJEN15]

AWD would be superb for ITS but not a deal breaker as you deem it. It checks every other box. And in the event they come out with a AWD later I will just trade in, as ITS holds their value.

[@duncancycles]

Cabin noise…. Great topic. I don’t think any other reviewer has brought that up.

[@Marbind]

It was never meant to be a comfortable car. Remember this is just a CTR with a suite. Plain and simple. High speed cornering and agility is the priority.

[@ChristianC-gy1ym]

Alex you're a wise man for recognizing the need for AWD in the ITS I had a 2015 GTI and the only thing that fun little hothatch needed was awd. Enter the golf r. ITS needs it badly.

[@Marbind]

Correction. Enter the TLX if you want awd. You can pay the agility penalty there.

[@ChristianC-gy1ym]

@@Marbind Ha ha that was funny my guy 😄 I'll give you 3 chances to tell me why your comment is utterly off base

[@Marbind]

@@ChristianC-gy1ym at this point if you don’t understand that the ITS is all about agility. Why I will lose my time explaining it to you? Hint: AWD affects negatively the agility of a vehicle. You really want awd you have many other choices.

[@ChristianC-gy1ym]

@@Marbind No it's not all about agility. My gti was agile and fun. Gobs of power too after an apr tune. ITS needs awd for more reasons than not. Don't just sit there telling me the pros of a fwd platform. Anyone can do that.

[@Marbind]

@@ChristianC-gy1ym ITS is even more agile and funnier 🤷🏻‍♂️ Again you have awd options to pick everywhere. Even acura. Why ruin a perfectly working formula with more weight and complexity. So exactly what is your point again?

[@jgirl125t]

Was ready to buy Type S until I realized that you can’t get all season tires without buying them aftermarket. At least another $1500. Otherwise I loved how smooth the manual worked.

[@Marbind]

This is a fact.

[@Bobcat9]

Plenty of all-season tires out there for around $200 each. I can't even think of an all-season tire that costs $375 each. Michelin Cross-climate tires are about $200 each in this size, are class leaders in all-season. Better yet, spend that $1500 on winter wheels and winter tires, and have the best of both worlds.

[@Marbind]

@@Bobcat9 CONTINENTAL EXTREMECONTACT DWS 06 PLUS One of the best all season you can get for this car $288 a piece

[@Bobcat9]

@@Marbind they said “AT LEAST $1500” and this reply is mostly for them, the original poster. Using your example: $288 x 4 = $1,152 $1500 - $1152 = $348. The installation of any set of 4 doesn’t cost $348 bucks. Unless you’re a sucker and/or probably live in CA where everything costs more. Again. If it comes with summer tires, spending $1000-1500 on all seasons is stupid because you never recoup the value of whatever tires it comes with. Instead, spend $250 each on 4 excellent WINTER tires and get a durable, inexpensive set of wheels at $100 each, and put that $1500 that you just have to spend on tires, put to better use. Have the advantage of summers over all seasons, plus the advantage of winters over all season for the same $1500. Any good tire seller will swap them out for free. Or just ask the Acura salesperson and make a deal to buy 4 winters from them, and there might be option on site to store your off season wheels and tires. My Subaru dealer does that. I know it’s becoming more popular too. Franchises like Les Schwaab, Belle, et. al. have been doing it for years around places that honestly warrant two sets of tires. Crying about the cost of something you think you need, but don’t actually, is ignorant; then exaggerating that cost and citing an example that doesn’t add up to your claim of “at least $1500” … all while being ignorant to the superior performance in every season with two sets of tires? Meanwhile, if the cost of tires is too much for you, then perhaps this isn’t the car for you. Also, if the factory tires are a deal breaker for your needs in any new car, then I guess you missed out on what makes this car special. I just paid $517, total…installed…out the door, for 4 new Continental all seasons on my Legacy GT 6MT at Belle Tire. Free rotations, free/cheap repair service in a semi-nationally available chain. What’s next, gonna cry about the premium fuel you have to put in this thing too? Cabin air filters are expensive, and people like you probably run the A/C all the time, so it needs frequent replacement. Excellent oil products and filters for this car ain’t cheap either. How about the enormously more expensive suspension it has? You think those parts won’t need service and replacement around the time your all season tires need replacement? And you up in here crying about the cost of refitting tires on a machine like this? Smfh.

[@Bobcat9]

$1500 for the all seasons you require, gets you 50,000- 75,000 miles down the road. This car comes with 50,000 to 75,000 miles already. Spend the same $1500 on 4 winter wheels and tires and go nearly twice the distance, than running only 4 all seasons. Which is the better value in this $1500 you’re convinced you have to spend on (inferior) tires? $1500 to go only 50,000 - 75,000 miles Or $1500 to ADD 50,000 to 75,000 more miles to the 50,000 to 75,000 it comes with? Seriously. I’d like to know which you think is the better value, in $1500?

[@mike-uw6wt]

Too much money for what it is.

[@ltkwok]

The Yen is really weak. If Honda/Toyota/Nissan/Mazda lowered prices, they would grab a lot of share.

[@MikeForsythe]

Toyota is dominating.

[@con2719]

The Golf R is a competitor that you forgot to mention, similar hp but it does have awd. Acura is not a direct luxury competitor to Lexus, Audi, BMW and Mercedes, it is a notch below. That's why th VW Golf R is a competitor. The Integra is a great car but definitely needs a dual clutch, and sh-awd maybe in the future....🤞 Excellent layout of the video screens!

[@Marbind]

Even without awd is faster around the track than the mighty Golf R. Why ruin it with more weight and complexity.

[@racergregg]

I own a Type S. Carbon Fiber rear wing is factory accessory on all Integras (incl. Type S), Rain-sensing wipers & prox. sensors are std. on Type S. And I will argue that AWD is not necessary on the Type S. Chassis dynamics make it very un-FWD-like and it's LSD makes it a beast on both road and track. And with only 200hp the other Integras don't overpower the front wheels. And totally agree on cabin noise. The optional, thicker floor mats help some but not enough. As a former TLX owner, I truly believe that that car needs SHAWD to make up for how freakin' heavy it is & how much it lumbers around. It is 1000lbs (yes!) heavier than the Integra Type S.

[@johnalvarado1337]

I think I’d take a VW Arteon over this. More spacious, Cheaper, AWD, Golf R engine, also a 5 door sedan. Also now that it’s discontinued I could see some large rebates coming to get rid of leftover inventory

[@whatsthedileo]

The worst thing about living in a city with some of the worst roads in the country is that I can't have wheels like this.

[@SrikanthSivaramakrishnan]

appreciate cabin noise db readings

[@schmo7777]

I'd be impressed for 35k tops. Sorry. 70k they want around me. Eff that.

[@Marbind]

😂😂 in the real world prices don’t work like that.

[@sonic_genesis]

35k new isn’t nearly realistic these days.

[@MrDaveaccord]

I agree the Integra is an all-around great car. I have a 23 A Spec trim with the CVT. Lots of fun to drive and very fuel efficient if you drive reasonable. It does have a few shortcomings like no rear center arm rest or USB or power connections. Also, it comes with no spare tire and the interior road noise is excessive for a vehicle this expensive. My 2 cents.

[@MidnightAspec]

Acura should offer an "Advance" model featuring the 2.0T and 10AT from the 10th gen Accord. I could slot nicely between the A-Spec Tech and the Type S. ....granted, it might cannibalize TLX Tech sales. That said, I'd pay an extra $5k for the ITS if it had SH-AWD, a moonroof and simple rear seat vents. (Spent some time in my good friend's Golf R.....which IMO is the benchmark in this segment...yet costs thousands less.)

[@Marbind]

I thought about the same of having the goodies of the ASPec but without the automatic transmission. Maybe an increase of 3K. The problem with things like moonroof is that ruins the main formula by raising the center of gravity and weakening the chassis.

[@MidnightAspec]

@@Marbind That's where a Type S model actually inserts itself into the equation. (re: the latter)

[@jamsbong]

Alex just pointed the obvious. The Type-S is priced at the same region as many other high performance sports cars. The Type-S might be a record breaker on a dry racetrack. But in real world day to day driving, it isn’t really that enjoyable to drive a FWD = Fail Wheel Drive.

[@Marbind]

I disagree. My previous sport compact was a tuned 15' ralliart. Currently I drive an ITS. So I know one or two things about owning a quick AWD car vs FWD. The manual transmission alone beats the enjoyability that you think AWD offers. Your passing power suffer with AWD. Those highway exit ramps are very fun to take now.

[@karacha]

This is supposed to be a "luxury" brand? I think most people addressed everything wrong with it already, especially for the $$. It's just not worth it.

[@ThirdBrainLives]

Just admit you’re broke

[@karacha]

I think you misunderstood. I'd rather pay MORE for something that is an actual luxury brand. This does not have the features to justify the cost.

[@MikeForsythe]

@@ThirdBrainLivesacura is literally a premium brand not luxury. So the irony of your statement lol.

[@KKop]

Love this Acura, except for the screen. Can automakers please start integrating the screen into the dash?

[@itsatoolthing6323]

Can you explain the chart comparing the cars with the stars❓Don't understand the star placement.

[@Marbind]

Upside down🔻 represents the integra. The ⭐️ the vehicle in the right. For example if the ⭐️ is to the left of the🔻 in the comfort category that means that is a more uncomfortable vehicle compared to the Integra.

[@InvestBetter.]

Acura didn't do much to hide its Honda Civic interior bones This interior is sub-standard for a $50k+ car 320 HP with FWD is also a faux pas above $50k This is Ghetto Fabulous

[@crow_2k11beatsbydre8]

Overpriced.......enough said.

[@invntiv3281]

it doesnt need AWD.

[@aymanlockhartable]

Without being badge conscious. Would say this was better than the KIA Stinger GT2 for value?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

No...

[@windwalker121]

price = crazy

[@ThirdBrainLives]

Get a better job

[@AntLive29]

$54k for this is outrageous

[@Nickersont88]

You can get a "compact" sport sedan for that money. 360+hp, RWD or rwd-based AWD, some even with an LSD, and also avoid the intense markup of this thing. Sometimes the hype train is wrong.

[@ShowMeWhatINeedToKnow]

Why can't Acura get a handle on cabin noise?? Their cars have always been loud.

[@mike9588]

they never focused on it unfortunately

[@MyMovie5858]

Acura has always been lighter than similarly sized competitors, so I am guessing lack of noise control is the reason.

[@racergregg]

The TLX is actually pretty quiet...much thicker glass and a LOT more sound deadening. Of course it's also 1000lbs heavier than the Integra too.

[@mcarlkv53]

love the engine in the TLX better...6 cylinder 355HP 10 speed auto...

[@sakuratree2]

I think you got too hung up on the vehicle not having AWD. The OG Integra didn't have AWD. This car isnt about that. Want AWD? TLX. I do wish it was a coupe, like its predecessor.

[@lionary]

TLX sales down 75% MoM and 50% YoY. Ouch.

[@rl6210]

Most People who buy this don’t cross shop a tlx or cla,etc. The fact it does not have awd, sunroof or auto trans speak to the type s purpose - keep weight to a minimum, and engage the driver

[@anthonyng3014]

So basically there's zero rear visibility, no AWD option, 2+2 seating with lacking headroom. Why not just release it as a coupe at this point?

[@bikingmoments]

Agree that TLX Type S makes more sense.

[@CMCNestT]

How do Integra sales compare to Model 3?

[@Moondoggy1941]

You have mentioned the cost several times, you have said that it is cheaper than lots of other vehicles, but you have not said the price yet!!!!!!?????? for up to 3:20

[@mikeydude750]

Good luck with those dealers markups And yes, manual transmission is a feature in this car. Buying it with an automatic is sacrilege

[@afcgeo882]

If it had a dual clutch automatic like the Golf R, it wouldn’t be.

[@mikeydude750]

@@afcgeo882 DCTs have their own charm but they just don't have the same feel as the stick and clutch pedal

[@afcgeo882]

@@mikeydude750 “Feel” is for people with fragile egos. People who actually drive hard want fast, accurate shifts, and the ability to have both hands on the wheel for control, not to mention DCTs are faster.

[@mikeydude750]

@@afcgeo882 lol just buy an EV then. some of us like to have fun even if it's not as "optimal"

[@afcgeo882]

@@mikeydude750 EVs are great, but they are heavy and their batteries run out quickly when you drive hard. Racing cars don’t use manuals for a reason, but like I said, some people need the stick for ego reasons.

[@kevs2good133]

Rain sensing wipers is standard on a $23k Volkswagen Jetta S and they can’t make it standard on a $50k + luxury hot hatch?

[@racergregg]

It IS standard on the Type S as are the proximity sensors. Alex did a pretty poor job breaking out what's available on the different models,

[@Marbind]

My ITS has that feature 🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️🤷🏻‍♂️

[@kjwong4730]

It’s a good car… pretty good looking

[@gregp.7148]

I like your conclusion that the Acura TLX Type-S is the one you’d go for.

[@Marbind]

Age and how you feel plays a big role here. I think I have around the same age as Alex but I will never ever go with the TLX given the absurd design of huge car and tiny interior. A car as big and heavy as this should have enormous seats and leg room. Unfortunately isn't the case.

[@vishalc6658]

Can you review Rivian R2, R3, R3x?

[@Marbind]

When is available for review. Isn’t Alex call.

[@mark_u]

While the Integra has good bones, it's quite a shame the interior isn't much differentiated from the Civic.

[@junito1008]

I love this Integra Type S…best looking car in the segment…period !! The only issue is the markups in these dealers !! 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@Marbind]

Integraforums has a thread of dealers without markups.

[@junito1008]

@@MarbindThank you for the info 👍🏻 Im a family man now so I cannot get it…I have the GLE coupe but my cousin was searching for one so i will tell him.

[@commonduck10]

Don’t know man…you hung up on awd sports cars.

[@M1911jln]

Type S starts at $52k? For a front-wheel-drive car? Yeah, no thanks. And I owned an '87 Integra for 13 years. The side profile is not great. I like hatchbacks, but this (like the Civic) looks like a hunchback.

[@rogerzhang2335]

XD Absolutely shocking to see that the TLX has less legroom and headrooom than the integra

[@naveenthemachine]

Being based off a class leading civic that transcends the segment is perfectly acceptable

[@chibbyylol]

Hopefully this logic for you stays consistent on the Lexus side when vehicles are based off say the class leading Camry or RAV4

[@janoycresnova9156]

How does it "transcend the segment"?

[@naveenthemachine]

@@janoycresnova9156 easy. The civic drives way better than anything else in the segment. The ride quality is better than the segment. The interior design and quality are better than most cars only close with the mazda3 all while offering good tech and good space

[@naveenthemachine]

@@chibbyylol no the Camry and rav4 aren’t class leading. They don’t transcend the segment😂. Hondas transcend the segment

[@ALMX5DP]

@@naveenthemachine GR Corolla does alright being based off the base vehicle.

[@H-ySapient]

Acura Integra, just like the 2016 discontinued Dodge Darts should have made entry in 2023 with a Hybrid AWD DCVT integrated without question! There's a Market for a "Mrs.' Torque Demon" and nobody but Kia, Ford and Toyota are willing to entertain the Sedan Tuner Concept culture. It's just unheard of to entertain anything under 3.0L or 3.6L, engine concepts rebadge but without AWD they're looking for highway responsive vehicles and mainly SUVs more compact than need be.

[@Marbind]

Toyota has many of those. Dont ruin this perfectly balanced enthusiast vehicle.

[@user-ss3ud7pp7f]

Holy crap, almost $60,000 all in! Why can’t they decontent these things and get them to a decent price and way more fun to drive? A stick shift and just the absolute minimum mandatory safety equipment.

[@verothacamaro]

Isn’t that a Type-R?

[@SansooIan]

Make it AWD, as a competitor with the Wrx and the GR Corolla (With the purpose of making these companies "Do better" where they NEED to).

[@Marbind]

Doesn’t need to be AWD. The integra is already faster that a Corolla GR and WRX around a track with just 2WD.

[@davelospinoso9022]

The type S car does not need AWD. drive one on a road and let me know how you got it to understeer, I'll wait

[@Marbind]

Easy. Turn the wheel, floor the gas. How I know? I have one.

[@DM72513]

Manual should be on the cheapest trim. Trying to get $38k+ for a slow as shit Integra is insanity. For $38K it should be competing in performance with a GTI at the very least.

[@ma7mgte]

I'd take the CT4-V. It can be had for 53k

[@MilushevGeorgi]

Good content

[@soulside]

Too bad I can’t find a Type S in CA for MSRP

[@trigganometry168]

Pleasanton Acura or Hansel Acura if your in NorCal.

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

I got my Integra Type S for MSRP at Valencia Acura (SoCal). Ask for Matt Randall.

[@speeddemon311]

@TheCarCrazyGuy on a car you ordered and waited for, but not one on the lot right!?

[@TheCarCrazyGuy]

@@speeddemon311no, someone reserved it and at the last minute cancelled. I immediately came by and purchased it.

[@hankhillsnrrwurethra]

I got a tiger eye one used at Niello Acura in Roseville. They had a guy swap black interior for orchid. 1.7k miles. I must be one of the first people to score a used one.

[@NathanBuildsRobots]

I’d have to agree with your final conclusion. TLX seats are WAY better, and interior is much quieter than the Integra. Those two factors make the most difference to me, in a daily driver. TLX base model is fast enough, and the 10sp automatic transmission tuning is better in the TLX than it is on the RDX and MDX.

[@09max22]

Acura can never put a perfect car together, there is always something missing, not having this vehicle with an auto trans is just dumb imo

[@Marbind]

Dumb for those that can't drive a manual. They still have the less agile TLX-S with everything the average Joe wants. 🤷‍♂

[@JimiMiki]

Wouldn't this car benefit from having an e-awd system?

[@toddgersh]

Should be an option for the type S

[@Marbind]

It will affect agility by making it considerably heavier.

[@alliejr]

Nope. IYKYK. Drive it and you’ll know.

[@JimiMiki]

@@Marbind ahh very true.

[@paulwg2112]

no one buys a type S for fuel economy

[@Marbind]

I don't have a problem getting a 31MPGs in the highway.

[@AlexIsUber]

RS3 destroys every CLA. Benz is just greedy

[@Marbind]

The RS3 is a beast.

[@gianfrancoa]

Only of the 1.5T wouldn't crap out headgasket gasket after warranty expires

[@LukeO-1234]

Integra-ty

[@22jeepmojave75]

$57k is too high

[@cyrilmatthew2995]

Comparing this to 2 series is a criminal offense...thats a proper frint midengine rear wheel drive car ...

[@JURASSICEDITS09]

You do realize bmw has two 2 series cars. the 2 series two door rwd car . Then there's the 2 series grand coupa 4 door fwd based off the mini platform that's the car he's comparing to hear.

[@cyrilmatthew2995]

​@@JURASSICEDITS09yeah 😮😮😮😮...they too messed up with the new gen... I was referring to m series ... Thanks for bringing that up

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Um, you realize that the vast majority of 2-series sold in the USA are the front wheel drive Gran Coupe models, right?

[@KrazC]

The price was the problem the SECOND the car was announced. Everything else was just about perfectly done, except for the fact that it was too close to the TLX and that, once you hit $50k, its gets bunched up with other objectively sportier performance cars and over shoots the "sport compact" equivalents that a enthusiast buyer would want to upgrade" to. This should have been $48k to ALL IN, giving a premium over the Type-R and Golf R, and undercutting the comparable German offering. Once you hit $50k, it's Supra, Mustang GT, M240i, etc. That's tough sledding.

[@Bobcat9]

"Unfortunately" Acura doesn't offer an automatic in the type-S? I say it is unfortunate that more cars don't offer a manual, especially since they're more mechanically reliable, cost less to manufacture, maintain, and repair, are 100% more fun to drive, offer significantly more speed and torque control, and are at a reduced risk of being stolen. The fact that an automatic can shift faster than a manual is meaningless in 99% of driving situations. Unless you're on a race track, what difference does tenths of seconds faster shifting make? What's next, gonna cry there's no sunroof, gonna cry there's no memory seat, gonna cry there's no 5th passenger seat? Go buy something else, this car ain't for you.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Automatics also sell better, and Acura is in the business of selling cars...

[@Bobcat9]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide oh, so it’s unfortunate to those who want an auto, in a vast sea of autos, when there’s only 1 transmission offered here; but it’s not unfortunate to those who want a manual, in a vast sea of no-manuals, when those options are fading? Indeed, autos have higher sale volumes because of indeed high demand for them, but that “better sales” does not conclude that manuals have so little they should be sunset. If you’re crying this car doesn’t have an auto, crying that it is only manual, then you’re missing why this model is special. Seems to me a buyers guide channel would highlight that, instead of shiit on it with a lazy driver’s thinking, “awe, so sad and “unfortunately” this car has no automatic.” Automatics are boring. Less efficient. Less reliable. More expensive to build, maintain, or replace. The market is stupid for preferring automatics. Who cares they sell better, that doesn’t mean they _are_ better. Ford F-150 is a best selling truck I would never spend _my_ money on, but have to drive them all the same because they’re so popular in my industry. Thank you Acura/Honda for providing what others won’t, or don’t, and providing it with such high quality, reliability, and thrilling performance.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

You’re misunderstanding what I said. I didn’t say they should drop the manual, I said they should also offer an automatic. I think you should go back and re-watch.

[@Bobcat9]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide ​ I never said that you said they should drop the manual. And you never said "they should also offer an automatic" @0:39 the first thing you said about the transmission offerings was, "because there is just one little problem with the type-S, for some shoppers, it's not available with an automatic transmission at all." @0:53 you said, "but UNFORTUNATELY, Acura does not offer an automatic with the high horsepower engine." So I will reiterate: How is it "unfortunate" to those who want an auto, in a vast sea of autos, when there’s only 1 transmission offered here; but it’s not unfortunate to those who want a manual, in a vast sea of no-manuals, when those options are fading? Thank you Acura/Honda for providing what others won’t, or don’t, and providing it with such high quality, reliability, and thrilling performance.

[@Marbind]

TLX - S if you want automatic 🤷🏻‍♂️