Acura Integra vs Toyota Camry

The 2026 Toyota Camry was available in several trim levels, including the LE, SE, Nightshade Edition, XLE, and XSE, with prices ranging from $30,595 to $36,995. Our test vehicle was the Nightshade Edition, featuring Supersonic Red paint and a variety of packages, bringing the MSRP to $36,478. Despite updates in 2025, the Camry retained its lineage from the 2018 model, which was evident in its proportions and design elements. The Nightshade Edition was popular for its satin black 19-inch wheels and gloss-black detailing, though it was limited to specific colors. Inside, it mirrored the Camry SE with a black interior, SofTex artificial leather upholstery, and stylish accents, making it a pleasant environment despite some inexpensive plastic.

The 2026 Acura Integra was offered in base, A-Spec, A-Spec with Technology, and Type S trims, with prices from $34,595 to $54,595. Our A-Spec with Technology test car, priced at $40,995, featured a six-speed manual transmission and Double Apex Blue Pearl paint. The Integra boasted Acura's signature design elements, including the "diamond pentagon" grille and "jewel eye" LED headlights. It shared its wheelbase with the Honda Civic Hatchback but was longer and wider, providing a balanced look. The A-Spec models had a new body kit and ambient lighting, while the interior offered quality and subtle luxury. Despite being slightly smaller than the Civic Hatchback, the Integra felt spacious from the driver's seat, with simple controls and elegant detailing.

The 2026 Toyota Camry transitioned to a hybrid-only powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors to produce 225 horsepower in FWD models and 232 hp in AWD versions. Fuel economy ranged from 43 to 51 mpg, with our FWD Nightshade test car achieving 44.5 mpg on a test loop. The Camry's TNGA platform provided a balanced ride and handling, though it lacked the communication of the Honda Accord Hybrid. The hybrid system used an eCVT, which was less satisfying than a traditional automatic transmission. Despite this, the Camry was quick and handled well on challenging roads, thanks to its low center of gravity and battery weight.

The 2026 Acura Integra offered thrilling performance, especially in the Type S trim with a 320-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. The rest of the lineup used a 200-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, paired with a CVT or an optional six-speed manual in the A-Spec with Technology trim. The Integra lacked AWD and a hybrid option, but the A-Spec models featured a thicker rear stabilizer bar, adaptive damping suspension, and an Active Sound Control system. The Integra was fun to drive, though it fell short of expectations compared to the Civic. The adaptive suspension and tires contributed to a softer ride, and fuel economy was below the EPA estimate at 26.5 mpg.

The 2026 Toyota Camry offered comfortable front seats with power height adjustment and SofTex upholstery. The back seat provided adequate space and support, with rear air-conditioning vents and USB ports. However, trunk space was limited to 15.1 cubic feet, with intrusive hinges and no grab handle for the lid. The Camry excelled in front storage, with large bins and door pockets, though the latter were difficult to clean.

The 2026 Acura Integra, though slightly smaller inside than the Civic Hatchback, provided comfort and practicality. The driver's seat was 12-way power-adjustable, while the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. Rear legroom was decent, but a fifth passenger would be cramped. Interior storage was commendable, though rear cupholders were shallow. The liftback offered a 24.3 cubic-foot cargo area, with a high liftover height but ample space for luggage. The rear seats folded for additional room, though Acura didn't specify the maximum cargo volume.

The 2026 Toyota Camry featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and connected services. Our test car's Multimedia Upgrade Package included a 12.3-inch touchscreen and Drive Connect subscription, offering cloud-based navigation and voice recognition. The system lacked a tuning knob, but drivers could use virtual buttons or steering wheel controls. Safety Connect was a standout feature, providing emergency assistance and vehicle tracking.

The 2026 Acura Integra offered a straightforward technology setup, with a 10.2-inch digital instrumentation display and a 9-inch touchscreen. The A-Spec with Technology trim added SiriusXM, HD radio, Alexa Built-in, and AcuraLink connected services. An ELS Studio 3D surround-sound system and a head-up display were also included. While the Integra lacked Google Built-in, it was easy to pair devices and use voice commands. However, display legibility was an issue in bright sunlight.

The 2026 Toyota Camry came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Predictive Driving Assist was intermittently helpful, and a stopping assist system engaged unexpectedly during testing. The Camry received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2026 Acura Integra featured the AcuraWatch suite of driver assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The A-Spec Technology trim added parking sensors and low-speed automatic braking. The adaptive cruise control reacted smoothly, but the lane-centering assist required regular steering inputs. The Integra earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with mixed ratings from the IIHS.