The market for small luxury cars remains alive and well, thanks to models like the Acura Integra and BMW 2 Series. Each represents the least expensive means of gaining entry into Acura or BMW ownership. They are also sized right for dealing with hectic urban traffic or negotiating tight parking spots.
Having debuted for 2023, the Integra rolls into 2025 virtually unchanged from last year. The BMW 2 Series, meanwhile, launches its second generation of Gran Coupe. The broader 2 Series lineup also includes 2-door coupe models, but we’re focusing on this 4-door variant since it’s more of a direct rival to the Integra. Available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), the Gran Coupe also offers a choice of two turbocharged 4-cylinder engines.
To determine which better fits your budget and driving needs, let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Acura Integra and the 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe.
2025 Acura Integra
The 2025 Integra starts at $34,195, and it is available in base, A-Spec, A-Spec w/Technology, and Type S variants. The range-topping Type S comes in at $53,795.
Acura Integra Highlights
Enjoyable to drive: The Integra Type S gets all the glory with its 320-horsepower turbo 4-cylinder engine and manual-transmission driving ethos. But then, it is based on the wildly entertaining Honda Civic Type R. That said, the standard Integra, with its 200-hp turbo 1.5-liter 4-cylinder, is also engaging, if not nearly as rapid when the gas pedal is floored. Light and accurate steering response is complemented by a comfortable ride during long highway drives.
Solid value: Starting at $34,195, the Integra is priced lower than its direct luxury rivals. Acura vehicles also enjoy strong resale values.
Roomy trunk: A small car means a small trunk, right? Not with the Integra. The rear hatch opens to 24.3 cubic feet of space. This expands into a much larger (and level) cargo area when the 60/40-split rear seats are folded flat.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Integra models for sale near you.
2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
The 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe enters a new generation this year. The 2025 lineup starts with the 228i sDrive (enjoying 13 hp more than the previous model), priced from $40,775 — still BMW’s most affordable new vehicle. The 228 xDrive opens at $42,775, and the top M235 xDrive Gran Coupe starts at $50,675.
BMW 2 Series Highlights
Practical yet stylish body: It’s kind of odd how the term “coupe” started being used for sleek 4-door sedans or even high-riding SUVs with tapering rooflines. But there’s no denying the 2 Series Gran Coupe cuts a stylish path through traffic. It looks sporty yet doesn’t rely on over-the-top design details.
Adaptive M Suspension: This is standard equipment for every new 2025 2 Series Gran Coupe, bringing poise and pliancy. We love how BMW cars drive, and having this as part of the package makes the Gran Coupe especially compelling.
All-wheel drive: All-wheel drive (known along the corridors of BMW as xDrive) comes with the 228i xDrive Gran Coupe for $2,000 more. xDrive is fitted as standard on the M235 xDrive Gran Coupe. This alone could seal the deal for many compact luxury sedan shoppers since the Integra is front-wheel-drive only. The M235i also features a 302-hp turbo 4-cylinder. Punch the accelerator, and the car only requires 4.7 seconds to hit 60 mph from a standstill.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the 2 Series models for sale near you.
Similarities
The Integra and 2 Series are most similar when comparing lower, less expensive trims. The 228i sDrive Gran Coupe and Integra are both front-wheel drive, and each has seating for five (in theory), although four is far more comfortable in both cases. They also have substantial amounts of standard features, including driver aids like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assistance.
Conclusion
The Acura Integra strikes first with its lower price, roomier trunk, and relatively generous rear legroom. It’s clear to us that Acura has put a lot of time and energy into creating a small luxury car that combines personality with practicality. The Type S only adds to the Integra’s impressive résumé, particularly since it comes with a 6-speed manual exclusively. That’s pretty hardcore for a luxury marque.
The 2 Series Gran Coupe does an admirable job as BMW’s affordable ambassador, yet it doesn’t feel compromised. Its lithe handling and decent pep from its 241-hp turbo 4-cylinder allow it to scoot from a standstill to 60 mph in a claimed 5.8 seconds (BMW usually understates such figures). The M235i xDrive variant packs more horsepower and added grip thanks to its standard all-wheel-drive system.
Given its substantially lower price, better powertrain warranty, and similarly fun driving manners, the Integra gets the nod in this comparison of two fine entry-level offerings from premium manufacturers.
Specifications
| 2025 Acura Integra | 2025 BMW 2 Series | |
| Starting Price | $34,195 | $40,775 |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | Turbo 1.5-liter 4-cylinder | Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 200 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 241 hp @ 4,500-6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 192 lb-ft @ 1,800-5,000 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 1,500-4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT | 7-speed automatic |
| Fuel economy | 30 mpg city/37 mpg highway/33 mpg combined | NA |
| Also Available | Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, 6-speed manual | Turbo 2.0-liter 4-cyl (M235i), AWD |
| Specs | ||
| 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 | 105.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 185.8 inches | 179.2 inches |
| Width | 72.0 inches | 70.9 inches |
| Height | 55.5 inches | 56.9 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.1 feet | 38.4 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 37.6 inches | NA |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 36.4 inches | NA |
| Legroom, Front | 42.3 inches | NA |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 37.4 inches | NA |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 57.0 inches | NA |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 56.0 inches | NA |
| Cargo Volume | 23.4 cubic feet | NA |