The 2025 Acura Integra and 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI prove that cars can be simultaneously sporty and practical. One trait doesn’t have to preclude the other. Each has a second row that’s actually usable by adults, plus a roomy hatch area and commendable fuel economy. It might seem odd to compare a luxury marque (Acura) with a mainstream maker (Volkswagen), but the Integra is the most affordable Acura car, and the Golf GTI has long been celebrated for its high-end cabin, We’d say the two cars meet on the line that separates premium from non-premium.
The Integra’s lineup includes a base 200-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, connected to either a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) or a 6-speed manual transmission. The range-topping Integra Type S comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with 320 hp. This is paired exclusively with the 6-speed stick shift. There are no significant changes to the Integra for 2025.
The 2025 VW Golf GTI receives a few changes this year (see below). Its 241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine carries over unchanged, while the optional 6-speed manual transmission is no longer offered. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic is the sole transmission now. The GTI is renowned for delivering brisk acceleration and a highly entertaining driving experience. The all-wheel-drive Golf R is also available, packing 328 hp and providing competition for the 2025 Acura Integra Type S.
Let’s take an even deeper look at the Integra and the GTI.
2025 Acura Integra
The trim levels are the base Integra, Integra A-Spec, Integra A-Spec w/Technology, and the Type S. The standard powertrain’s fuel economy is an impressive 33 mpg in combined city/highway driving.
Acura Integra Highlights
A-Spec w/Technology package: The Integra’s two midrange trims are defined by the bundle of options that come with each of them. Choosing the A-Spec adds 18-inch wheels, LED fog lights, and a black rear spoiler. We think it’s worth going for the A-Spec w/Technology, however. It adds a raft of features like an adaptive suspension, an upgraded audio system, front seats covered in simulated suede, and a larger 9-inch touchscreen.
ELS audio: The ELS surround-sound system delivers brilliant audio quality and is part of the Technology package. This 16-speaker unit bears the initials of Elliot Scheiner, a Grammy-winning studio engineer who has worked with Acura on its premium audio offerings over the years.
6-speed manual: We applaud Acura for continuing to offer a manual gearbox, and for making it the only transmission with the Integra Type S. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to change gears yourself, consider the Integra the perfect Driver’s Ed coach.
Smart entry with walk-away lock: Hate fumbling for keys to lock or unlock your car? The Integra does it for you by sensing the proximity of the key fob. When you approach, the doors open. And when you park and walk away, the doors lock automatically.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Integra models for sale near you.
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Volkswagen GTI comes in S, SE, and Autobahn trim levels. For 2025, the GTI gains styling revisions, with updated LED lighting at both ends, plus an illuminated grille badge. Technology reaches a higher level, bringing a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen. Various controls have been redesigned to be more ergonomically effective. And certain aspects of the infotainment system are controllable using voice commands.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Highlights
Dual-clutch automatic: This 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission clicks through gears with mistake-free efficiency.
Retro heritage: With its boxy shape, plaid-patterned seats, and upright feel, the GTI does a better job than the Integra of reconnecting with its hallowed original.
Standard tech: Volkswagen delivers a healthy helping of tech in the GTI. An 8-inch touchscreen is standard, while in the SE trim and up is a 10-inch unit. Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless device charging, and four USB ports are standard in every GTI. Upgrades include wireless smartphone connectivity and a 480-watt Harman Kardon audio system.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the GTI models for sale near you.
Similarities
Both cars have a front-wheel-drive configuration. Although the Volkswagen GTI is slightly shorter than the Acura Integra, both cars are practical, with seating for five, and convenient tailgates. They’re also sporty, each packing punchy turbo 4-cylinder engines. Their base models are even priced within a few hundred dollars of each other.
Pricing
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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 vehicles and New 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI 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
| 2025 Acura Integra | 2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | Turbo 1.5-liter 4-cylinder | Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 200 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 241 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 192 lb-ft @ 1,800-5,000 rpm | 273 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT | 7-speed automatic |
| Fuel economy | 30 mpg city/37 mpg highway/33 mpg combined | 24 mpg city/33 mpg highway/27 mpg combined |
| Also Available | Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, 6-speed manual | 328-hp Golf R with AWD |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 6 years/70,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | NA |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 107.7 inches | 103.6 inches |
| Overall Length | 185.8 inches | 168.8 inches |
| Width | 72.0 inches | 70.4 inches |
| Height | 55.5 inches | 57.6 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.1 feet | 35.8 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 37.6 inches | 38.5 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 36.4 inches | 38.1 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 42.3 inches | 41.2 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 37.4 inches | 35.0 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 57.0 inches | 55.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 56.0 inches | 53.9 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 23.4 cubic feet | 19.9 cubic feet |
Conclusion
It’s good to know there are cars out there delivering sharp handling and quick acceleration without breaking the bank. The Integra and GTI both offer sportiness without sacrifice, particularly if you like traveling with more than one companion and packing light for road trips isn’t an option.
Working in favor of the Integra is its roomier interior, better fuel economy, and that Acura badge — which means better resale values. Then again, the Golf GTI is something of an icon among enthusiasts and it didn’t get to be that way without living up to its promise of driving thrills. We strongly suggest test-driving both, and may the best car (in your opinion) win.
