2023 Acura Integra vs 2023 Lexus IS
Ever since Acura came back with the Integra after many years of discontinuation, critics from all around have had all kinds of nice things to say about this impressive yet affordable sports car. The Lexus IS may be powerful, but it may end up leaving you with buyer's remorse considering the price and overall value when placed next to the Integra.
Performance
Buying an Integra is a straightforward process as there's a single dynamic powertrain to choose from, leaving out any overcomplications from too many trim levels like some other companies suffer from. It comes equipped with a 1.5L VTEC Turbo engine supplying 200 horsepower, and it's available in a 6-speed manual or CVT. The manual transmission setup is enhanced with Rev-Match Control for precise downshifting and optimal power output with the help of a limited-slip differential. The Integrated Dynamics System lets you choose between Sport, Comfort, Normal, and Individual modes for adaptable driving. And for being a performance car, the CVT version of the Integra has an incredible mileage rating of 30 in-city and 37 highway miles per gallon.
The standard engine in the Lexus IS is a 2.0L at 241 horsepower which is slightly more than the Integra, but it's still lacking in dynamic and intuitive driving technologies that provide a more satisfying feel on the road. There's an available 5.0L V8 engine at 472 horsepower, but you could be paying double the cost of the Integra's starting price for a level of power that you might not even have the chance to use often. The IS also has a poorer fuel economy of 21 in-city and 31 highway miles per gallon which will have you stopping at the gas station more times than you would like to. Also, the only two drive modes available are Normal and Sport which isn't much to choose from.
Safety Features
Both Acura and Lexus included a standard set of safety features for their sports sedans, and they're pretty similar in comparison. The Integra comes with AcuraWatch and the Lexus IS comes with the Lexus Safety System+, both of which have features designed for collision warning, pedestrian detection, road sign recognition, advanced cruise control, and a lane-keeping system. However, the Integra is able to support available add-on safety features such as a Blind Spot Information System, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, and Low-Speed Braking Control which can all come in handy for your daily trips like during commutes or while running errands throughout town. But what's even more special about the Integra is that AcuraWatch information can be projected directly onto the windshield through the head-up display.
Interior
For the true sports car fan, the Integra's interior comes as a real treat to many. Much of the design process was inspired by racing elements for an exciting cabin that you'll enjoy getting into every time. The front seats are wrapped in available microsuede inserts for comfort and stability with heating capability, 12-way power adjustments, and a memory system. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels satisfying to the touch, and ambient cabin lighting with bold colors sets the mood no matter the occasion. You can easily view all of the Integra's information on the 10.2-inch instrument cluster, and you can choose to upgrade to the available 9-inch center display where you can access all of your media. Speaking of media, the available ELS Studio 3D audio system comes with 16 speakers, and that's including two overhead and one cargo-integrated subwoofer.
The designers at Lexus attempted to create a "driver-inspired cockpit" with the IS, but it just looks like your average sedan when compared to the Integra. The IS is compatible with a Mark Levinson sound system, but that brand name is hardly recognizable, unlike the Integra's ELS Studio 3D system which was actually developed by a Grammy Award-winning producer and engineer. It's honestly tough to beat that level of dedication in a vehicle sound system.
Bottom Line
Before unnecessarily dropping a wad of cash on the Lexus IS, you can save money and get a better value with the 2023 Acura Integra. It has great power, amazing safety features, and a much more fun and exciting cabin experience.
Take the 2023 Acura Integra for a Test Drive!
If you're ready to take the 2023 Acura Integra for a spin, come visit Maus Acura of North Tampa and we'll be more than happy to show you around! Give us a call anytime at (813) 535-6287 or go ahead and browse our new inventory online.
