2023 Acura Integra vs 2023 Acura TLX

The 2023 Acura Integra was designed with a cohesive aesthetic that aligned with Acura's broader design language, featuring a pentagonal grille, JewelEye headlights, and sharply creased character lines. This design allowed the Integra to fit seamlessly with the larger TLX sedan and Acura's crossover models. With the introduction of the Integra, Acura phased out the ILX compact sedan, acknowledging the declining market for sedans and the need for a unique compact offering. The Integra distinguished itself with a five-door liftback design, a nod to its third-generation predecessor, and a wide track that gave it a solid, planted appearance. It was available in three trims: base, A-Spec, and A-Spec with Technology, each offering distinct wheel designs and performance tires. Inside, the Integra shared some similarities with the Honda Civic but maintained its unique identity with features like honeycomb climate control vents and high-quality HVAC controls. The A-Spec trims offered microsuede upholstery, though the lack of ventilated seats was a drawback. While the Integra didn't match the bespoke refinement of German competitors, it was well-constructed and offered a premium feel.

The 2023 Acura TLX faced challenges due to the consumer shift towards SUVs and supply chain constraints. Despite these hurdles, the TLX stood out on the road, especially in its Type S variant with striking Tiger Eye Pearl paint and performance enhancements. The TLX's design was based on a concept vehicle, featuring a long, low, and lean profile with a rear-wheel-drive look. However, this dramatic styling compromised rear-seat room and cargo space. Inside, the TLX had a layered dashboard design that emphasized width, but the control layout required some adjustment. The Type S model, with its turbocharged V6 engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), was the most expensive TLX variant, offering a thrilling driving experience. The TLX lineup included various option packages, with the A-Spec offering a choice between FWD and SH-AWD. Despite its challenges, the TLX remained a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish and performance-oriented sedan.

The 2023 Acura Integra marked a first for the model with its turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, delivering 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. This engine, shared with the Honda Civic Si, provided a lively driving experience, especially when paired with the optional six-speed manual transmission available on the A-Spec with Technology trim. The manual transmission featured short throws and automatic rev-matching, enhancing the driving experience. The Integra's suspension offered a sporty yet comfortable ride, and its handling capabilities were impressive for a front-wheel-drive vehicle. The variable-ratio electric power-steering system provided a natural feel on highways and sharp responsiveness in corners. The Integra offered three drive modes—Comfort, Normal, and Sport—plus an individual mode, with Sport mode noticeably enhancing the car's dynamics.

The 2023 Acura TLX offered a range of performance options, starting with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered various driving modes through the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS). The TLX Type S, the sportiest variant, featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It came with performance enhancements like a sport automatic transmission with rev-matching, adaptive dampers, and Brembo brakes. The Type S could accelerate to 60 mph in five seconds and had a top speed of 155 mph. While the TLX Type S offered an exhilarating driving experience, its brake-by-wire system occasionally lacked the precision expected in a sports sedan. Despite this, the TLX Type S was a delight to drive, with excellent grip and handling, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts.

The 2023 Acura Integra's liftback design offered practicality with 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. However, the high lift-over height could be challenging for shorter individuals or those with heavy luggage. The interior provided a comfortable experience for the driver and passengers, with a logical dashboard layout and smartly placed storage solutions. Rear-seat legroom was decent, but headroom was limited due to the sloped roofline. Despite these limitations, the Integra's rear seat cushions were notably soft, enhancing passenger comfort.

The 2023 Acura TLX Type S featured a premium interior with Milano leather and artificial suede inserts, available in various color options. The flat-bottom sport steering wheel and analog gauges added to the sporty feel, though the low-contrast markings were challenging to read. The front sport seats offered excellent comfort with 16-way power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. However, the rear seat was less accommodating, with narrow doors and limited legroom. The TLX's trunk provided 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, more akin to a compact car, but the flat floor and enclosed hinges maximized usability.

The 2023 Acura Integra came equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster as standard. The Technology package upgraded the standard 7-inch touchscreen to a 9-inch unit and added features like a head-up display and wireless smartphone integration. The A-Spec with Technology trim also included a wireless charging pad and the ELS Studio 3D premium audio system with 16 speakers, offering an impressive audio experience. Overall, the Integra's technology offerings were competitive, especially in the top-tier trim.

The 2023 Acura TLX's technology was centered around the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which proved to be a source of frustration for some users. The 10.2-inch display was not touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a touchpad and buttons for control. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with upgrades available for wireless charging and premium audio systems. The TLX lacked Alexa Built-In, but AcuraLink Remote service allowed for Alexa compatibility. While the ELS Studio 3D audio system sounded excellent, the lack of wireless smartphone integration was a drawback.

The 2023 Acura Integra set a high standard for safety with its comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and more. The A-Spec with Technology trim added features like low-speed braking control and parking sensors. Despite offering a manual transmission, the Integra included all safety features, a notable advantage over some competitors. The NHTSA awarded the Integra a five-star overall safety rating.

The 2023 Acura TLX came standard with AcuraWatch, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors. The TLX's Advanced Engineering Compatibility (ACE) body structure and eight airbags contributed to its safety credentials. The IIHS awarded the TLX a Top Safety Pick+ rating, and the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating, with a four-star rating for the front passenger in a frontal collision.