Acura Integra

Acura resurrected the Integra name for its entry-level four-door hatchback. It's essentially an upscale version of the Civic and is powered by a 200-hp, 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder shared with the sporty Civic Si. The top version, the Type S, comes with a 320-hp, 2.0-liter turbo-four paired to a six-speed manual. Most versions have a continuously variable transmission, which lets the engine rev higher than the Integra's actual acceleration; we much prefer the slick-shifting six-speed manual. Handling is responsive, but the ride is choppy and the car suffers from excessive road noise. The controls are simple but are barely differentiated from the Civic's, and the same goes for much of the interior design and layout.