China's Sad Honda Integra Hybrid Reminds Us How Lucky We Are

Jul. 17, 2022 8:23 AM ET by Jarryd Neves Leaked / 2 Comments

We won't complain about the Acura Integra sedan ever again.

The Acura Integra has received a lot of criticism since it was first unveiled. Fans of the storied nameplate bashed the newcomer for not being worthy of its badging, with many suggesting it's a shadow of its former self. It may not be quite as exciting as the legendary Type R of the 1990s, but the new Acura is shaping up to be a credible alternative to the Subaru WRX.

It could have been a lot worse, too. In China, the Integra badging has been tacked onto a decidedly bland Civic-based sedan and while we're envious of the color options, we're very happy with our version. Images published on China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology's website show that Honda is getting ready to launch a hybrid variant of the Chinese market Honda Integra.

There's very little to tell the hybrid apart from its gas-powered sibling. The only differences can be found around back; the gas model boasts a pair of sporty-looking tailpipes which are missing on this model. You'll also note the vehicle pictured below wears an e:HEV badge, denoting its more frugal powertrain.

Seeing as the Integra shares many components with the Civic, we wouldn't be too surprised to find it makes use of its sibling's hybrid setup. In the 11th generation Civic e:HEV, a 2.0-liter engine works together with two electric motors to provide a combined output of 181 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque.

You could never call it ugly, but the Honda Integra's bland styling is no match for the US-spec Acura Integra. We're guessing it's not quite as swift to drive, either.

The e:HEV's imminent reveal has made us wonder whether a hybrid variant of the Acura Integra may come. If done correctly, it could improve acceleration and performance. As a reminder, the Acura's 1.5-liter turbocharged engine musters up 200 hp and 192 lb-ft, sent to the wheels via a disappointing CVT transmission. Happily, a manual gearbox is available but only as part of the A-Spec Technology package.

If a hybrid model was to be introduced, we'd expect notably more torque and an extra dose of horsepower. However, it will most likely be paired with the aforementioned CVT, which wouldn't appeal to most enthusiast drivers in the US. As for the China-only Honda Integra, we're not sure when it will be introduced, but vehicles often appear on the MIIT months before their official reveal. It's sure to be a sales success over there.