2023 Acura Integra vs Mazda 3 Turbo Hatch l Maus Acura of North Tampa

After a two-decade hiatus, Acura’s brought its celebrated Integra nameplate back to the market, much to the delight of enthusiasts around the world. The 2023 Acura Integra now takes the form of a hatchback sedan, offering roomier seating, tons of driver-assist features, standard turbocharged power, and so much more.

The Integra stands out among competing models in its class—particularly regarding its closest rival, the 2023 Mazda 3 Turbo Hatch. While both vehicles promise a fun, engaging drive at a reasonable price, which model stands out? Read on to learn all about how the Integra has the edge over the competition.

Power and Performance

Acura delivers an impressive blend of power and performance in the all-new Integra. At the base trim, it’s equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that pumps out 200 hp and 192 lb.-ft of torque. With distinct driving modes and superior handling, the Integra delivers an engaging drive, whether you’re commuting to work or cruising the back roads on a cross-country road trip.

The 2023 Mazda 3 Turbo features a more powerful turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivering 227 hp and 310 lb.-ft of torque, but you pay the price for all that power. Turbo isn’t standard in the Mazda 3, so you’ll need to spend nearly $2,000 more for the extra power.

What really sets the Integra apart in terms of power, though, is the available manual transmission. The Mazda 3 is only available with a six-speed automatic transmission, a less engaging option. If you’re looking for the perfect combination of power and handling—and you’re craving an engaging ride—the Integra is the clear winner.

Interior and Tech Features

The Integra is modeled after the award-winning Honda Civic Si, but it takes things a step further. The spacious, comfortable, and well-appointed interior is loaded with standard features. From ambient lighting to adaptive cruise control, Apple CarPlay to blind-spot warning systems, you can count on a safe, connected drive every time you get behind the wheel.

The Mazda 3 Turbo, however, is a bit of a disappointment when it comes to interior comforts. While you’re paying the price for the upgrade from the basic Mazda 3 to the Turbo, there’s not much inside to distinguish the two. There’s less cargo space than you’ll find in the Integra, and features like Traffic Jam Assist that come standard in the Integra are only available on the higher-priced Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus model. Drivers looking for the latest infotainment and safety tech—on a budget—would be wise to choose the Integra.

Fuel Economy

With prices at the pump going up and up, fuel efficiency is an important consideration for every driver. The Integra sets the bar again, offering an estimated 33 mpg when equipped with Acura’s continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Mazda 3 Turbo, on the other hand, only delivers an estimated 26 mpg. That’s a big difference!

The 2023 Acura Integra Is the Clear Winner Over the 2023 Mazda 3 Turbo Hatch

The 2023 Acura Integra and the 2023 Mazda 3 Turbo hatchback couldn’t be more different. Acura offers the perfect blend of power, comfort, technology, and efficiency, all at a lower price than Mazda’s counterpart. Experience everything that makes the Integra special by stopping by Maus Acura of North Tampa today or give us a call at (813) 535-6287 to schedule your test drive!