2000 Acura Integra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Longer tune-up intervals and the return of the high-performance Type R coupe are among the few year-2000 changes for the entry-level Acuras. Integra is derived from the Honda Civic, which is being redesigned for 2001. Integra will move to Civic's new platform for 2002, when it will likely be renamed Acura IL.

Meantime, the current 1994-vintage design continues in LS, GS, and sporty GS-R hatchback coupes and 4-door sedans. All use 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engines. GS-Rs have 170 horsepower via Honda's VTEC variable-valve-timing system. Other models have 140 hp. Manual transmission is standard, automatic is optionally available on LS and GS. For 2000, all Integras get a standard anti-theft engine immobilizer and 100,000-mile tune-up intervals, and Acura says the automatic transmission is modified for smoother shifting. After a brief furlough, the limited-edition Type R returns with standard instead of optional air conditioning and the same 195 hp.

COMPETITION

The performance leader in this group is also our Best Buy. The Honda Prelude will hustle two large adults and their luggage in comfort and luxury to a weekend getaway. Prelude has plenty of power, excellent road manners, and gets reasonable fuel economy.

We also recommend you take a look at the Chrysler Sebring (which will be redesigned for 2001 in coupe, convertible, and sedan form) and the Volkswagen New Beetle. The Sebring offers the most room in this class, while the New Beetle has interesting styling and a nice mix of comfort, performance, and economy.