Has Acura underestimated the interest of future customers of its new 2023 Integra for the manual transmission? That seems to be the case.
By resurrecting its compact with the legendary name, the luxury brand from Honda has announced a Canadian base price that will be around $35,000. That’s fine, except the standard included gearbox is a continuously variable automatic (CVT). Nothing to arouse passions, even if it includes a function Step-Shift with paddles on the steering wheel to simulate gear changes.
To get the six-speed manual (and accompanying limited-slip differential), you absolutely have to go for the top A-Spec trim). However, this is not a problem for a good majority of buyers.
Acura spokesman Andrew Quillin confirms on Twitter that more than 70% of people who have reserved a copy so far have opted for the manual transmission. It’s quite incredible. He also points out that the first generations of the Integra (marketed between 1986 and 2001) were sold in the manual version in approximately 50% of cases.
Fun Fact: 2023 Integra reservations are trending over 70% 6MT! For historical context, the MT was around 50% of sales (’86-’01). pic.twitter.com/G1tSVJuxQ3
—Andrew Quillin (@andrewquillin) March 17, 2022
Although some of the automotive press and several enthusiasts on social networks have criticized the new version of the Integra, in particular because of its five doors and its engine identical to that of the Honda Civic Si, not to mention the Inside, demand seen since the car’s unveiling is “above our expectations,” according to Acura.
Remember that the 2023 Integra features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine developing 200 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 192 lb-ft of torque between 1,800 and 5,000 rpm. Power is transmitted to the front wheels only. The rumored all-wheel drive will not materialize.
Photo: Acura
The 17-inch alloy wheels are replaced in A-Spec trim with 18-inch wheels shod with performance all-season tires. Glossy black trim in various places and a thin rear spoiler also distinguish this sportier-looking Integra.
The first examples from the Marysville, Ohio plant will arrive at Canadian dealerships this spring. We should know detailed pricing – and give you our first driving impressions – by then.