2025 Cadillac CT5 vs 2026 Acura Integra

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 continued to build on the legacy of its predecessor, the CTS, which it replaced in 2020. Sharing its platform with the CT4 and Chevrolet Camaro, the CT5 was known for its appealing design, comfort, and driving experience. However, it still lagged behind its rivals in sophistication, and its trunk space was limited. By 2025, the CT5 had improved in power, performance, and technology, with a lineup that included Premium Luxury, Sport, CT5-V, and CT5-V Blackwing variants. The Premium Luxury trim, tested with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine and AWD, showcased a refreshed design with vertically stacked headlights and a bold front fascia. Inside, a new 33-inch display dominated the cabin, complemented by upscale climate control icons and a mix of luxurious materials, although some cheaper plastics remained.

The 2026 Acura Integra, offered in A-Spec, Elite A-Spec, and Type S trims, was based on the Honda Civic but distinguished itself with exclusive design and powertrain features. The Elite A-Spec test car, equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, showcased Acura's signature "diamond pentagon" grille and "jewel eye" LED headlights. It shared its wheelbase with the Civic Hatchback but was longer and wider, providing a more balanced look. The A-Spec models featured a new exterior body kit, ambient lighting, and revised interior trim. The Integra's interior was characterized by quality and subtle luxury, with simple controls and elegant detailing. Despite sharing some elements with the Honda Accord and Civic, the Integra maintained its unique appeal.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered a standard turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. However, the optional twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 335 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque, provided a more exhilarating experience. The V6, coupled with AWD, added over $6,000 to the vehicle's cost and impacted fuel economy, averaging 12.6 L/100 km during testing. Despite being louder than expected on the highway, the CT5 was effortless to drive, with features like Super Cruise and a high-definition surround-view camera system enhancing the experience. While not the most athletic version, the Premium Luxury trim offered a rewarding drive, with the V-Series and Blackwing variants available for those seeking more excitement.

The 2026 Acura Integra Type S, with its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, delivered thrilling performance. The rest of the lineup featured a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 200 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT or an optional six-speed manual gearbox. The Integra's adaptive damping suspension and Active Sound Control system enhanced the driving experience, while the manual transmission offered precise shifts and automatic downshift rev-matching. Despite its lively engine, the Integra's performance was not as exhilarating as expected, with the adaptive suspension and all-season tires contributing to a softer ride. Fuel economy fell short of expectations, averaging 8.9 L/100 km, making the Honda Civic Hatchback with a hybrid powertrain a more economical choice.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 offered reasonable comfort for road trips, though it was louder than ideal, and the front seats lacked side bolsters. The rear seats provided good legroom and thigh support, but headroom was limited. Interior storage was adequate, with a wireless smartphone charger conveniently located. However, cargo space was tight at 337 litres, with an uneven trunk floor making it difficult to load full-size suitcases flat. The enclosed trunk hinges allowed for efficient use of space without damaging items.

The 2026 Acura Integra, though slightly smaller inside than the Civic Hatchback, provided comfort and practicality. The Elite A-Spec test car featured a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a four-way power-adjustable front passenger's seat, though the latter lacked height adjustment. Heated front and outboard rear seats were standard, but ventilated seats and rear air conditioning vents were unavailable. Interior storage was commendable, though the rear seat cupholders were shallow. The liftback design offered a 688-litre cargo area, with a high liftover height but ample space for full-size suitcases. The 60/40-split rear seat could be folded for additional cargo room, though Acura did not specify the maximum volume.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 featured a new 33-inch panoramic display with three screens, including a trip computer panel, digital instrumentation, and a wide infotainment touchscreen with Google Built-in technology. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The user interface was intuitive, with multiple interaction methods available. Additional features included a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and Teen Driver technology.

The 2026 Acura Integra offered a straightforward technology package, with a 10.2-inch digital instrumentation display and a 9-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and phone charging, with an upgraded processor for improved response. The Elite A-Spec model added SiriusXM, HD radio, Alexa Built-in, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system. While the system was easy to use, display legibility issues arose in direct sunlight.

The 2025 Cadillac CT5 came equipped with a comprehensive set of driving assistance systems, including a surround-view camera system and active blind-spot monitoring. Super Cruise, a standout feature, offered hands-free driving on approved roads, with a driver monitoring system ensuring attention. The CT5 received top five-star ratings from the NHTSA in all crash tests, including rollover resistance.

The 2026 Acura Integra featured the AcuraWatch suite of driver assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Elite A-Spec added parking sensors. The Integra earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and received a mix of "Good" and "Acceptable" ratings from the IIHS.