2026 Acura Integra vs. 2026 Lexus IS Comparison

The 2026 Acura Integra and 2026 Lexus IS are tangible proof that compact luxury cars remain desirable and enjoyable. Not only that, these two start at prices appreciably below similar offerings from German companies.

The Acura Integra has a deep fanbase that was overjoyed by its return for the 2023 model year. It’s seen improvements since then to keep it up to date, but the fundamental idea has stayed the same — Honda Civic reliability with a luxury interior and a greater fun quotient. A sporty Type S variant, with a snarling 320-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine coupled exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission, gives you the option of more performance.

The Lexus IS has a higher starting price and rear-wheel drive (RWD), which some purists call necessary for a performance car. Lexus had suggested it might not build the IS for the 2026 model year, but surprised us by bringing it back. Its only powertrain is a 3.5-liter V6 putting out 311 hp and an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.  

Let’s explore the highlights of each car for a better idea of which might be the winner.

2026 Acura Integra

The Integra is a front-wheel-drive (FWD) 5-door hatchback — a rare configuration for a luxury car. But it’s built on the bones of the legendary Honda Civic, with the added luxury of an Acura cabin. The Integra is available in base, Integra A-Spec, Integra A-Spec w/Technology, and Type S trims. The range-topping Type S comes with a 320-horsepower turbocharged engine and one of our favorite short-throw manual transmissions. For those old enough to remember, the Integra first served as Acura’s entry-level model from 1986 to 2001.

Acura Integra Highlights

Solid value compared to the competition: Acura gives the 2026 Integra a tempting price. It’s thousands less than almost every direct rival, including the Lexus IS. Despite such budget-friendliness, the Integra doesn’t require loading on options to make it feel worthy of its premium badge. Standard features include heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a moonroof.

Performance from Type S: The regular turbocharged 200-hp 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine delivers plenty of pep and great fuel economy. Yet the 320-hp turbo 4-cylinder unit of the Type S proves how well the Integra’s finely balanced chassis copes with a lot more muscle. That the Integra Type S is available only with a 6-speed manual transmission also gives it a ton of street cred.

Practicality: One important word to remember when considering a small luxury sedan is the “small” part. That often translates to cramped rear seats and a tiny trunk. Not the Integra. There’s adult-friendly rear legroom, along with more than 24 cubic feet of cargo space under the hatch and behind the 60/40 split/folding rear seats.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see 2026 Acura Integra models for sale near you.

2026 Lexus IS

Many shoppers think of Lexus as a brand built on quiet luxury, but the IS has always had a lot of attitude for a Lexus product. Aggressive looks, RWD dynamics, and a powerful engine for this class make it a spicier Lexus. The company drastically simplified the IS lineup for 2026. It’s now offered only with a 311-hp 3.5-liter V6, and every 2026 IS gets the F Sport handling enhancements that used to be optional.

Lexus IS Highlights

More Power: The V6 found in the IS is nearly as powerful as the optional turbocharged engine in the Integra Type S. Lexus no longer offers its incredibly over-the-top V8 option, but the V6 is a rarity in a class full of 4-cylinder engines.

Available Mark Levinson audio: These are entry-level luxury cars, but there’s nothing entry-level about the 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system available in the IS. It might be the best-sounding system available in a compact luxury car.

Cabin quality: Lexus continues to craft refined interiors that are equal parts robust and elegant. True, the cabin’s overall layout shows its age. Yet the materials themselves are first-rate. They’re reminders that this is a true Lexus luxury sedan, even if it’s the most affordable one.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see 2026 Lexus IS models for sale near you.

Similarities

Despite a big difference in starting price, the Integra and IS are remarkably close in overall dimensions. Each has seating for five, although the rear quarters are much more bearable with only two people back there. Also, both cars are aimed at first-time luxury car shoppers, or perhaps folks looking for a premium sedan that’s agile and easy to park. 

Pricing

The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Acura Integra vehicles and New 2025 Lexus IS vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.

Specifications

Conclusion

Neither of these cars will disappoint you, and every car shopper has different priorities. But we think many buyers would be happier with the Integra. Its lower price goes a long way toward protecting your budget, or lets you stretch to the Type S for a price similar to the IS.

RWD lovers will still find a lot to love in the IS, but most buyers would likely rather keep the price difference.

Lexus also suggested the IS might not make it into 2026, so we doubt there will be a 2027 model. There’s nothing wrong with owning a discontinued car, but if that’s likely to bother you, it’s good to know.