2023 Acura Integra vs 2022 Subaru WRX

The 2022 Subaru WRX showcased a modest redesign that perhaps did not appeal to those seeking dramatic styling. The new model was two inches wider than its predecessor, but its front end remained subtle, highlighted by the trademark hood scoop. The front fascia retained its relatively small hexagonal grille, split by a decorative bar and flanked by sharp LED headlights.

Moving to the side profile, the WRX underwent notable changes. The new design was less busy, free from pronounced character lines seen in previous models. However, the addition of black plastic cladding elicited mixed reactions. This cladding wasn't merely aesthetic; it featured air outlets at the trailing edge of the front wheel wells to enhance airflow and aerodynamic performance. This textured hexagonal pattern was a nod to the vehicle’s rally heritage.

At the rear, the flared fenders and large plastic bumper, extending halfway up the car’s back, caught the eye. The taillights possessed a multifaceted design that illuminated like magma when lit. Quad tailpipes maintained their presence. The overall look appeared smoother and more streamlined than previous models, though the extensive body cladding could be distracting, especially on brightly colored vehicles like the Solar Orange version tested. Other features on the Premium-trim included LED fog lights, 18-inch dark gray alloy wheels, and a subtle trunk-mounted lip spoiler.

Inside, the WRX received substantial improvements. While many components were inherited from other Subaru models, the fit and finish had noticeably improved. Unique touches such as a D-shaped, flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, carbon-fiber-pattern trim accents, and black cloth seats with red contrast stitching helped distinguish the WRX from more utilitarian Subaru models.

The 2023 Acura Integra arrived with a cohesive design language that aligned it closely with the larger TLX sedan and RDX and MDX crossovers. Its pentagonal grille, JewelEye headlights, and sharply creased character lines signified its place within the Acura family.

With the new Integra, Acura retired the ILX, opting for a five-door liftback design reminiscent of the third-generation Integra, which morphed into the RSX in 2001. The vehicle featured embossed “Integra” logos at the front-left and rear-right corners, a wide track, and a long wheelbase, giving it a solid, planted appearance despite its compact dimensions.

The Integra was available in three core trim levels: Base, A-Spec, and A-Spec with Technology. The base model came with 17-inch alloy wheels, whereas the A-Spec trims sported 18-inch Shark Gray wheels, all wrapped in performance all-season tires. A decklid spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, and large taillights enhanced the Integra’s distinctive rear end.

Inside, the Integra shared familial similarities with the Honda Civic, though it avoided feeling like just a re-skinned version. Honeycomb grilles covered the climate control vents, but unlike the Civic, they didn’t extend the entire dash width. The HVAC system's controls featured knurled metal finishes, providing a satisfying tactile experience.

The A-Spec with Technology trim boasted a 9-inch color touchscreen, a thin yet comfortable steering wheel, and excellent exterior visibility due to narrow A-pillars. However, rearward visibility was somewhat compromised. Microsuede upholstery in upper trims provided good grip but lacked breathability, which was noticeable on hot days, especially since ventilated seats weren't offered. Despite its premium branding, the Integra lacked the bespoke refinement of its German competitors but still felt well-crafted and solid.

The new-generation WRX replaced its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with a 2.4-liter turbo found in the Outback and Legacy XT models. This horizontally opposed four-cylinder ("Boxer") engine produced a slightly increased horsepower of 271, up from 268, while maintaining the same torque figure of 258 pound-feet. However, the power boost felt minimal and often left drivers wanting more.

Despite the addition of all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard, the WRX's performance could feel lacking, particularly when compared to competitors like the Volkswagen GTI, which delivered more torque and felt sprightlier from a standstill. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual transmission and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), but 85% of buyers historically preferred the manual.

During testing, the six-speed manual was engaging, with a notchy and precise operation. The clutch pedal offered a pleasant balance and ease of use, cementing the WRX as an enjoyable car to drive. The new Subaru Global Platform provided a forgiving ride, reducing body roll and improving handling. Substantial debris-laden mountain roads tested the suspension’s resilience, which performed admirably, maintaining stability despite challenging conditions.

The 2023 Acura Integra made history by offering a turbocharged engine for the first time. The 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder felt lively and paired exceptionally well with the six-speed manual transmission, thanks to technological enhancements that included automatic rev-matching.

Only the A-Spec with Technology trim offered the manual option, while lower trims were equipped with a CVT. The Integra’s powertrain, shared with the Honda Civic Si, delivered 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque, providing a robust and elongated power band. Rev hang, previously an issue with older Civic models, was nearly non-existent in the new Integra, thanks to improved engineering.

The Integra’s handling impressed, with a firm yet comfortable suspension and a variable-ratio electric power-steering system that adjusted based on the degree of turn, providing brilliant precision and natural on-road feel. Offered solely with FWD, its handling capabilities were still noteworthy, though those in snowy climates might desire AWD for better traction.

Driving the manual Integra felt surreal, with features like automatic stop/start and brake hold adding convenience. At stop lights, the car would turn off and engage the brake automatically, reigniting with a press of the clutch, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Practicality was a strong suit for the WRX. Although it no longer came in a hatchback variant, the sedan’s cargo space increased from 12 cubic feet to 12.5 cubic feet, expandable with a 60/40 split-fold rear seat. The sport seats provided comfort and support, upholstered in premium cloth (base and Premium trims) or Ultrasuede (Limited and GT trims). They offered ample bolstering without feeling restrictive, making the WRX a viable option for daily commutes.

The presence of standard AWD further augmented its appeal, offering a unique advantage in the $30,000 price range where performance-focused AWD sedans were rare.

The Integra's liftback design boosted its practicality, boasting 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. However, the height of the rear end and the lift-over height made loading and unloading heavier items cumbersome. Despite these challenges, once items were loaded, the cargo space was ample enough to fit larger items like a mountain bike with the rear seats folded down.

Inside, the Integra's layout was logical and functional, with strategically placed cupholders, a tray ahead of the shifter, and a sizable center console cubby. Rear-seat legroom was decent, but headroom was limited, especially for taller passengers. Despite the compact space, the seat cushions were notably soft, providing comfort for longer journeys.

Technological advancements in the WRX were significant for the 2022 model year. Higher trims featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display, though the system exhibited quirks, particularly with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. The former only used half of the available screen, while the latter, though larger, appeared like an afterthought.

Physical controls complemented the touchscreen, making it easy to operate essential functions such as climate control and audio. Lower trims had a more unconventional setup with two 7-inch stacked displays, but they were practical enough. Additionally, the WRX could be equipped with an 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system, enhancing the audio experience significantly.

Each Integra model came with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a standard 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster. The Technology package further enhanced these features with a 9-inch color touchscreen display, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad, enabling a seamless, cable-free experience.

The A-Spec with Technology included USB-C and additional USB-A ports for rear passengers. Audiophiles would appreciate the top-tier ELS Studio 3D premium audio system, broadcasting through 16 speakers, including some mounted in the headliner, which delivered an exceptional auditory experience.

WRX models with the CVT came equipped with Subaru’s highly praised EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). This system included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. However, due to technical limitations, these features weren't available with the manual transmission.

Blind-spot monitoring with lane-change assist and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on Limited and GT trims but unavailable on base and Premium trims. The Subaru Global Platform provided a safer structure, with seven airbags, including a driver’s-side knee airbag, as standard.

The Integra set a high bar for standard safety equipment, featuring advanced ADAS across all trims. Standard features included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and more. The A-Spec with Technology added low-speed braking control and parking sensors.

Acura included these features even with the manual transmission, contrasting with the WRX’s limitations. The Integra had yet to be rated by the IIHS, but it received a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).