(By Tom Lohnes) – The new Acura Integra has been a catastrophic flop for the enthusiast crowd. Looking more like a Civic than ever, this 4-door only Integra doesn’t even have a different interior than the Honda. There is one thing that was keeping the enthusiast flame very dimly lit though, and that is the availability of a 6-speed manual in the new ‘Teg. Well, the three-pedal option is still happening, just with a significant caveat.

First off, the order books for the new Integra open March 10th, so if you are part of the few people that actually likes this thing, you know where to go. With the order books opening so soon, we got some more info on the 6th-gen Integra, including the trim levels. Starting with the base, this Integra is going to be the cheapest new Acura you can buy, so it is equipped appropriately for that role. We don’t know a lot of specs yet, but the base model is likely going to share the same 180-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged I4 as in the top-spec Civic, essentially picking up where it left off.

Step up to the sportier A-spec, and you are likely to get the same 1.5-liter engine, but this time with a 200-hp Civic Si tune, a limited-slip front diff, and a more aggressive suspension setup. Looks will improve too, with some nicer wheels and a racy-looking bodykit. Inside, you will likely get the same interior as the base, just with some sporty red or white seats and possibly some better tech and amenities. This will likely be the volume seller.

And finally, we have the top-of-the-line(for now), A-spec tech. This is the model the prototype we saw a few months ago is based off of, and it is the best in terms of looks, comfort, and fun. It will likely have the same engine as the A-spec, but a 6-speed manual will be optional, only on the highest trim. That’s right folks, the only chance you have at a 3-pedal 2023 Integra is the highest model, which will likely have a starting price close to $40,000.

You’re probably wondering what the other transmission options are. A DCT like the ILX? The 10-speed auto out of the Accord? Nope. Even in the sporty A-spec model with the Si engine, you get a lifeless CVT as standard unless you spring for the top-spec one. If there were any genuine Integra enthusiasts left that liked this rather lazy attempt of rebodying a Civic, they’re probably not going to be too happy about forking over $35-40k just to have a stick.

Another interesting but no so severe thing, the Yellow color that was showcased on the prototype will not be offered for the 2023-model year Integra. It is a weird thing to not offer it, but at the same time no one is really springing to get a bright yellow car of any type.

So, it is safe to say Acura might’ve messed this one up. What do you think, would you get a ‘Teggy with a stick, or spend your $40k elsewhere like on a similarly equipped Subaru WRX or even a Lexus IS300? I would probably look elsewhere.