Comments
Built on the same wheelbase as the current Civic, the other dimensions of the new Integra are close to the Civic hatchback, and the overall silhouette is shared. The driver faces the same basic TFT gauges, with different graphics than on the Civic. The segmented, hockey-stick-style readouts for coolant temperature and fuel level used on the Civic are employed in the Integra as well. The climate controls from the Civic are repurposed in an Integra-specific dashboard. Like the Civic, cabin space is good for a vehicle of this size, and fit and finish are impressive. The iOS-Android cellphone interface and the Alexa audio concierge are standard.

Power stems from Honda’s familiar 1.5L turbo four, producing 200 horsepower. That’s 12 more than the same engine in the Civic Touring, but it imposes the use of premium fuel, which is a poor deal for the owner. Power reaches the front wheels via a six-speed manual or a CVT automatic.

With 320 horsepower, the term “Civilized Hooliganism” is an apt description of the Type S. The turbocharged 2L four is impressively serene in gentle driving but when full performance is requested, the zingy, rev-happy engine takes on a feral bellow that is sonically compelling. The engine sends power to the wheels via a docile clutch and gears are selected by a manual transmission with a precise, snicky, mechanical-feeling action. Despite the massive power going through the front wheels, torque-steer is not an issue but there is some ‘tramlining” effect on road imperfections due to the super-wide tires. Steering is precise and transmits road surface information to the driver very well. Handling and grip are impressive and the ride is resilient, especially considering the phenomenal handling of the Type S.

Pricing

With L.E.D. headlights, a full safety suite including active cruise control, blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, a lane keep assist system, a lane departure warning, a sunroof and fog lights, the base A-Spec Integra is nicely equipped, but at around $39,000, it is ambitiously priced. The Elite A-Spec gives buyers a choice of manual transmission or a six-speed manual at the same price. The Elite adds adaptive dampers, wireless iOS-Android phone hookup, a larger infotainment screen, a head-up display system, ultra suede front seat inserts, wireless cellphone charging, a memory system and a variety of minor items, but is overpriced. The 2L Type S is priced $7300 more than an Elite, however, it does deliver exceptional performance.

Reliability
New car, not rated. Predicted reliability is above average, but the 1.5L turbo engine has generated some complaints in CR-V models that use it, including turbo wastegate figures.