2023 Acura Integra vs. 2023 VW Jetta GLI

Not all sports cars come in ridiculously high price ranges that make them unattainable to the majority of drivers. There are many vehicles that primarily focus on peak performance that come in more affordable price ranges, with Acura and Volkswagen being a couple of the top manufacturers. Today, the Delray Acura team is taking a closer look at the new 2023 Acura Integra and the 2023 VW Jetta GLI. You can also take a look at our new inventory online at any time!

2023 Acura Integra vs 2023 VW Jetta GLI

The highly-anticipated return of the Acura Integra presented fans with a modest engine backed by intuitive performance. The brand also knew how to make an entrance, gracing the Integra with impeccable style inside and out. The Jetta GLI may come with a beefy engine, but it doesn't put on a show as exciting as its competitor.

Performance

The all-new Acura Integra comes with a 1.5L VTEC Turbo engine capable of 200 horsepower. That's an adequate amount of power while keeping it within an affordable price range. You can choose between a 6-speed manual paired with Rev-Match Control or the dynamic CVT system with an incredible fuel rating of 30 in-city and 37 highway miles per hour. No matter which mode you choose, you can utilize the Integrated Dynamics System with distinct drive modes such as Sport, Comfort, Individual, and Normal.

You'll find a 2.0L turbo engine under the hood of the new Jetta GLI which is capable of 228 horsepower, but that's a small difference from the Integra and without the iconic build. It also comes in a 6-speed manual transmission, but it doesn't feel as smooth as the Integra. The 7-speed direct-shift gearbox (DSG) is also rather disappointing as drivers would much rather prefer the adaptiveness of the Integra's CVT system.

Safety Features

All new Integra models come standard with AcuraWatch which includes all of your basic yet essential safety and driver-assist features. Aside from AcuraWatch, you can choose to include optional features like a Blind Spot Information System, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, and Low-Speed Braking Control.

Volkswagen also has its own patented suite of safety features that they refer to as IQ.DRIVE. However, some people might prefer the selection of features in AcuraWatch. But other than IQ.DRIVE, you can also amp up your security with the available Automatic Post-Collision Braking System which can give you an extra hand after getting involved in an accident. But of course, most drivers would rather prioritize proactive measures so they don't get into an accident in the first place.

Interior

Acura really rolled out the red carpet for the Integra's return by designing an exciting cabin loaded with all kinds of fun features. To start, the seating situation is on-par with luxury vehicles with heated front seats and available 12-way power adjustments with memory settings and available microsuede inserts. The sporty aspect of the Integra really shines through with a distinct dashboard design and authentic sport pedals along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Available ambient cabin lighting sets the mood while you blast your favorite tunes through the 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system including two overhead speakers and a subwoofer blended into the cargo space.

The interior of the Jetta GLI looks pretty standard compared to the Integra. You can see that Volkswagen didn't go all out as Acura did, but it still has your basics like heated seating, a wireless charging pad, and climate control. It comes with a BeatsAudio sound system which doesn't feel as robust as the ELS Studio 3D system, but you can still enjoy some ambient lighting.

Bottom Line

When you look at the new Acura Integra and the Jetta GLI side-by-side, it's apparent that the Integra received more attention to detail during the design process. However, that's to be expected when you realize that the latest Integra was the model's big comeback after a great many years. Considering that, it would be disappointing if the Integra fell short of anything but amazing. So, while the Jetta GLI has slightly more horsepower, the Integra still goes above and beyond in every other department.

Take the 2023 Acura Integra for a Test Drive!

Interested in taking the new Integra for a spin? Visit Delray Acura anytime and we'll gladly give you a grand tour of our lot! For more information about the 2023 Acura Integra, feel free to give us a call at (888) 221-4506 or check out our new inventory online.