The 2026 Acura Integra A-Spec has folks buzzing, especially since it shares so much DNA with the Honda Civic Si. Both are fun-to-drive compact hatches built on the same platform, with the same peppy turbo engine and sharp handling that make them stand out in a sea of crossovers. But with Acura slapping a luxury label on it and asking for thousands more cash, is the Integra just a Civic Si in disguise? Or does it deliver enough extra polish to justify the premium? We dug into the specs, reviews, and real-world differences to find out. Spoiler: It’s more than a rebadge, but the gap isn’t huge.
Shared Roots, Same Punch
At their core, these two are twins. The Integra A-Spec borrows the Civic Si’s 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, pumping out 200 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. Both hit 0-60 mph in about 7 seconds with the six-speed manual quick enough for merging onto highways or zipping through town. Front-wheel drive keeps things simple, and fuel economy hovers around 29 mpg combined for both. The Civic Si sticks to manual-only, while the Integra offers a CVT as standard (manual on higher A-Spec Tech packages). Handling feels lively on twisty roads, thanks to tuned suspensions, but the Si edges out with a limited-slip differential standard, making it grippier in corners. If raw fun is your game, they’re neck-and-neck.
Room and Ride: Practical Pals
Space-wise, you won’t notice much difference. Both seat five comfortably, with 24.4 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear seats that folds flat for 58 cubic feet total great for grocery runs or weekend gear. The Integra’s hatchback design shines for easy loading, just like the Si’s sedan setup (no hatch for Si in 2025). Ride quality is smooth over bumps, but the Integra adds more sound deadening for a quieter cabin on long drives. It’s not night-and-day, but you’ll hear less road noise in the Acura, making it feel a tad more refined.
Tech and Comfort: Where Acura Steps Up
This is where the Integra pulls ahead. Both get a 9-inch touchscreen and 10.2-inch digital gauges for 2026, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But the Si adds Google Built-in for seamless Maps and apps, while the Integra’s system gets a speedier processor. Inside, the A-Spec rocks sporty touches like red stitching, metal pedals, and available leatherette seats with heating and ventilation fancier than the Si’s cloth buckets (though heated seats are now standard on Si). Safety suites match with auto braking, lane keep, and adaptive cruise, but the Integra throws in a head-up display on Tech packs. It’s comfier for daily duties, without losing the sporty edge.
Price Tag Reality Check
Here’s the rub: The Civic Si starts at $29,950, making it a steal for sporty thrills. The Integra A-Spec? $37,145 base, jumping to $40,395 with Tech for the manual. That’s $7,000-$10,000 more for similar guts. Acura sweetens it with a longer warranty (4 years/50,000 miles basic vs. Honda’s 3/36,000) and free maintenance perks. Resale holds strong for both, but the Integra’s premium badge might edge it long-term.
Quick Specs Face-Off
A side-by-side snapshot of base-ish models (prices include destination):
| Feature | 2026 Acura Integra A-Spec | 2025 Honda Civic Si |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $37,145 | $29,950 |
| Engine/Horsepower | 1.5T I4 / 200 hp | 1.5T I4 / 200 hp |
| Transmission | CVT (manual opt.) | 6-speed manual |
| MPG Combined | 29 | 29 |
| Cargo Space (cu ft) | 24.4 / 58.0 | 14.8 trunk (sedan) |
| Key Extras | Leatherette, HUD avail. | Google Built-in, LSD |
Data from manufacturer specs and reviews.
Verdict: Worth the Splurge?
The 2026 Integra A-Spec isn’t worlds apart from the Civic Si same engine, similar zip, and shared bones mean it’s no revolutionary leap. But it adds real value with a plusher interior, quieter ride, and luxury touches that make it feel like a step up from Honda’s hot hatch. If you’re chasing pure driving joy on a budget, grab the Si it’s a riot without the markup. But for daily comfort with a dash of upscale flair, the Integra earns its badge. Test both; by fall 2025, they’ll be at dealers, ready to prove their point.