Some cars are competent. A few feel like they were built for people who still notice steering weight, shift timing, and how a chassis settles mid corner. The 2026 Acura Integra sits in that second camp, and it does it without turning daily driving into a chore.
Here in San Diego, performance is not just a big number on paper. It is the confidence to merge smoothly, the control to place the car on a twisting road, and the ability to keep things comfortable when the drive is more errands than canyon. At K&S Acura of Kearny Mesa, we help drivers compare the Integra’s performance setups in a way that fits real life, not just spec sheets.
This guide breaks down what makes the Integra engaging to drive, how the manual and CVT experiences differ, and what changes when you step up to the Integra Type S. If you want to feel the difference for yourself, you can shop our new Integra inventory and schedule a test drive with our team.
Quick Feel on San Diego Roads
Turbo Power for San Diego Merges
The standard Integra powertrain is built around a turbocharged 1.5L engine rated at 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. That torque is available across a wide rpm band, which is why the car can feel responsive when you roll into the throttle on an on ramp or slip through an opening in traffic.
On paper, that is the headline. In practice, it translates to a smooth pull that does not demand constant downshifts just to keep pace. It is the kind of power delivery that feels natural on the daily drive, then still has some attitude when you choose a more spirited route.
Paddle Shifters for San Diego Control
If you prefer an automatic experience, the Integra offers a CVT with paddle shifters on the turbo models. The point is control. When you want quicker response for a freeway merge or a little more involvement on a curving stretch of road, the paddles give you a way to take the lead without committing to three pedals.
Acura positions the CVT as a mix of efficiency and comfort, with sport tuned logic and paddle shifters designed to keep the drive engaging when you want it to be. That combination works well for drivers who want performance flavor without the extra work in stop and go traffic.
Manual Energy in Kearny Mesa
Rev Match for San Diego Downshifts
For drivers who want that more connected feel, the Integra offers an available 6 speed manual transmission with Rev Match Control on the Integra A Spec with Technology Package, and the Integra Type S comes manual as well.
Rev matching is simple in concept and satisfying in the moment. When you downshift, the system can adjust engine rpm to match the next gear. The result is smoother engagement, more stability through the transition, and a driving rhythm that feels deliberate instead of hurried. Acura also notes that Rev Match can be turned off, which matters if you want the full manual experience on your own terms.
Helical LSD for San Diego Grip
On manual transmission equipped Integras, Acura pairs the power delivery with a helical limited slip differential. Think of it as a traction helper that works quietly in the background. When you accelerate out of a corner and one front tire has less grip than the other, the differential can route more torque to the wheel with more traction.
What you feel is cleaner corner exit behavior. Less wasted wheel slip, more forward bite, and a steadier sense of control when the road is not perfectly smooth.
Handling Tech for San Diego Mood
IDS Modes for San Diego Driving
The Integra’s personality is not locked in place. Acura equips it with the Integrated Dynamics System, which fine tunes the car in real time and lets you choose different driving modes with the console mounted Dynamic Mode switch.
Depending on model, the system can adjust key systems such as:
- Throttle response
- Automatic transmission function
- Active Sound Control
- Electric Power Steering
- Adaptive Damper System when equipped
- Idle Stop functionality
- Instrument lighting theme
Mode availability varies by Integra configuration. In broad strokes:
- Turbo models offer Comfort, Normal, and Sport
- The A Spec with Technology Package adds Individual
- The Type S includes Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus, and Individual
The value is flexibility. Comfort can feel calmer when traffic is thick. Sport can sharpen the car’s responses when the road opens up. Individual is where you can tailor the mix on equipped models.
Adaptive Dampers for San Diego Streets
On the Integra A Spec with Technology Package, the Adaptive Damper System is part of the Integrated Dynamics System. It offers different damper settings tied to drive modes, including Comfort, Normal, and Sport, with the intent of changing the balance between ride comfort and body control.
Day to day, that matters more than most people expect. A car can be fun when you are pushing a little, but it also needs to be composed over broken pavement and expansion joints. Adaptive damping helps the Integra keep that dual nature.
Type S Performance San Diego
Type S Power and Torque San Diego
The Integra Type S is the second performance personality, and it is a meaningful jump. Acura rates the Type S at 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 2.0L engine.
If the standard Integra feels eager, the Type S feels intent. It is built for drivers who want more output, more response, and a more focused setup, while still keeping a street friendly footprint.
Type S Chassis and Brakes San Diego
Type S performance is not just about the engine. Acura highlights a Dual Axis Strut front suspension for the Type S, aimed at increased performance. Acura also notes the moonroof was purposely removed on the Type S to improve chassis rigidity and agility.
Braking gets a clear upgrade, too. The Type S uses Brembo 4 piston aluminum front brake calipers, along with larger brakes compared to the turbo models. In Acura’s own performance description, the Type S pairs its close ratio manual with large front Brembo hardware and upsized rotors to help you approach the next corner with more confidence.
Sport Plus and Exhaust San Diego
Type S adds a drive mode that is exclusive to that model: Sport Plus. Acura describes Sport Plus as a more visceral drive and specifically notes that the Active Exhaust Valve opens for a more aggressive sound, while the gauge needles transform to yellow as a nod to the Integra Type R.
It is a small detail, but enthusiasts understand why it lands. Sound, response, and cockpit atmosphere all shape how a car feels, even at legal speeds.
Choosing Your Integra Setup for San Diego Life
Daily Commuting around San Diego
If your week is mostly commuting, errands, and freeway time, start by deciding how much involvement you actually want every day.
Many drivers prefer the turbo Integra with the CVT because it keeps things smooth and convenient, while still offering paddle shifters for those moments you want more control. If you like a more adjustable ride and added personalization, the A Spec with Technology Package brings available features like Individual mode and adaptive damping that can make daily comfort and weekend fun easier to balance.
Weekend Roads near San Diego
If you live for the drive itself, the manual transmission changes the entire tone of the Integra. The available 6 speed manual with Rev Match Control gives you that direct connection, and the helical limited slip differential on manual equipped cars helps put power down more cleanly when you accelerate out of a corner.
If you want the most focused Integra setup Acura offers, that is where the Type S makes its case. More power, a more performance oriented suspension story, upgraded braking hardware, and Type S exclusive Sport Plus mode all push it toward the driver who plans routes, not just destinations.
Test Drive the 2026 Integra at Kearny Mesa
If you want to understand the Integra’s performance personality, the quickest path is seat time. We can help you compare transmissions, talk through the difference between the turbo models and the Type S, and match the setup to how you actually drive around San Diego.
Start by shop our new Integra inventory, then schedule a test drive. Prefer to talk it through first? Call our Sales team at 858-295-0312.
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