2026 Acura Integra A-Spec w/Technology Package POV Start Up, Test Drive (1.5-Liter VTEC Turbo-Four)

POV start-up and test drive of a 2026 Acura Integra A-Spec in Celestial Silver featuring a 1.5-liter VTEC turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This example is painted in Urban Gray Pearl paint with Ebony interior.

The Integra A-Spec's VTEC engine produces a flat 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque.

Acura says the 2026 Integra offers major technology updates, including smartly integrated standard features to enhance the cabin. The Integra A-Spec also sports a bold aero body kit and redesigned 18-inch black wheels. The kit adds body-color side spoilers on the front fascia and a new side sill garnish to improve aerodynamics and visual appeal.

The Integra was sharp at its 2023 relaunch and looks even sharper three years later. Though the A-Spec has a smaller engine than the Type S, the six-speed manual is still entertaining. The clutch feels user-friendly, and gear changes are quick and smooth. Including an auto stop/start feature on a car with a manual transmission seems like a weird concept, but Acura has done a great job with seamlessly integrating it. The automatic rev-matching makes kickdowns and exiting turns easier, too.

This example features a sport-tuned suspension with an active damper system for greater control over driving dynamics. Working in conjunction with the Integra's integrated dynamics system, drive modes include sport, comfort, normal driving modes, and a customizable individual mode. Opting for sport mode dials in the Integra's steering, throttle response, and exhaust note for a more athletic experience. Comfort mode does just the opposite, relaxing the Integra for more leisurely cruising. Regardless of drive mode, road noise remains a constant presence in the Integra's cabin. A bump in NVH mitigation would better align the Integra's price tag and market position.

Pricing for the 2026 Acura Integra A-Spec with the tech package and six-speed manual transmission starts around $39,200 and does not include taxes, license, or destination and handling charges.

The 2026 Integra A-Spec uniquely combines premium and sport into a well-packaged compact sedan. Offering better seating room and cargo capacity than competitors like the Audi A3 or Mercedes-Benz CLA-class, and for a better price. The Integra A-Spec isn't just a rebadged Honda Civic, it's a practical and eye-catching commuter for the grown-up car enthusiast.

Huge thanks to the Midwest Automotive Media Association and Acura for the opportunity to experience this example at #MAMAFallFest25

Shot on GoPro Hero11 featuring binaural (3D) audio. The use of headphones is recommended.

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0:01 Exterior view and vehicle unlock/entry
0:18 Interior initialization sequence
0:48 Engine start up and exhaust rev in normal mode with window up
1:04 Engine exhaust rev in normal mode with window down
1:10 Engine exhaust rev in sport mode with window down
1:21 Engine exhaust rev in sport mode with window up
1:35 Vehicle drive begins - low speed through wooded area in normal mode
2:29 Medium acceleration from stop in normal mode
3:38 Auto stop/start demo at stop light
3:46 Medium acceleration from stop in normal mode
4:37 Auto stop/start demo at stop light and light acceleration in normal mode from stop
4:57 Auto rev-matching and kickdown to second into light acceleration in normal mode
5:20 Engaging sport mode and exhaust sounds around corners
5:55 Road noise and engine note at normal cruising speeds in sport mode
7:40 Hard acceleration in sport mode
7:55 Downshift in sport mode and kick down acceleration in second gear
9:17 Hard acceleration in sport mode
9:57 Downshift in sport mode and entering wooded area
10:43 Reverse into parking spot and back up camera demo
10:54 Vehicle parked, emergency brake engaged, back into normal mode, vehicle off
11:16 Vehicle exit, exterior view, and vehicle locked