The manual is alive!
Acura debuted the 2023 Integra just a week ago, with a starting price of “about $30,000.” The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine comes standard with a CVT, but an optional A-Spec performance package adds a six-speed manual transmission. The demand for the three-pedal setup has turned out to be considerably bigger than Acura had anticipated.
Acura’s PR team’s Andrew Quillin recently revealed on Twitter that bookings for the new Integra’s manual gearbox option are approaching 70%. To be honest, we were surprised, and it appears that even the automaker wasn’t expecting such a large percentage of early reservations to be for manuals, given that the MT accounted for around half of the model’s sales from 1986 to 2001.
Aside from the “about $30,000” remark, there’s no additional pricing information available at this time, however Acura is already taking bookings. While Acura wouldn’t reveal how many Integra reservations they have, they did say it’s “above our expectations.” Reservation holders paid a $500 deposit, which Acura intends to convert to sales in the majority of cases.
A 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 200 horsepower (149 kilowatts) and 192 pound-feet of torque powers the new Acura (260 Newton-meters). As previously stated, a CVT is the basic transmission, but a manual transmission is available with the A-Spec performance package. The six-speed transmission features rev-matching technology and a limited-slip differential.
Vehicles equipped with the A-Spec pack ride on 18-inch wheels and have a small spoiler at the back. Gloss black finish for the window surrounds and trim on the front and rear fascia are also part of the equipment. The interior benefits from stainless steel pedal caps, red gauge needles, and contrast stitching for the upholstery.