Vehicle Tested
2013 Acura ILX Sedan (2.0L 4-cyl. FWD 5-speed Automatic)
Driven On
5/30/2012
Ratings Summary
In a burgeoning segment, the Acura ILX sets the bar. While luxury-branded compacts are nothing new in Europe, they're quickly becoming attractive here as well because they provide creature comforts of upscale cars in smaller, more efficient and more affordable packages. Well done, Acura.
B
Performance
With three drivetrains from which to choose, the performance varies widely in terms of acceleration, fuel economy and drivability.
| Acceleration |
B
|
The 2.4L with its 6-speed manual is the hot one and at 7 seconds to 60 mph, it accelerates about 2 seconds quicker to 60 mph than the 2.0L model with the 5-speed automatic. |
| Braking |
C
|
In typical driving, the brake pedal is quite responsive. At our test track, we recorded average performances from both 2.0L/2.4L models with expected amounts of brake fade. |
| Steering |
B
|
All ILX models feature a slightly sportier version of the Honda Civic's electric-assist power steering. It's precise and light, but offers little feedback enthusiasts might crave. |
| Handling |
B
|
The ILX's comfortable ride does not diminish its competitive handling abilities: Good grip, predictable limits, and actually fun on challenging roads. |
| Driveability |
B
|
Because the ILX is such a well-rounded performer, it retains a very drivable nature. It's happy in just about any circumstance and easy to live with. |
A
Comfort
Acura's new ILX presents a low-impact alternative to high-strung Euro compact sedans. Its comfortable, quiet ride is only part of its appeal.
| Seating Comfort |
B
|
Front seats are well-bolstered and comfy, but might lack the headroom taller drivers require (due to standard moonroof). Rear seats offer more room/comfort than most compacts. |
| Ride Comfort |
A
|
Perhaps one of the most comfortable rides in the compact car segment. Excellent on a variety of surfaces. |
| Quietness |
A
|
With both laminated glass and active noise cancellation, the ILX is very quiet -- especially for a compact car. |
B
Interior
Though this interior is based on the poorly appointed furnishings of the Honda Civic, the ILX shows that Acura still knows how to do it right.
| Ergonomics |
B
|
As expected in an Acura, the center console is button intensive, but it's highly legible and logically presented. We appreciate the analog gauges in lieu of digital. |
| Ingress/Egress |
B
|
Typical compact-car entry and exit without fuss or unexpected pitfalls. |
| Space/Room |
B
|
There's a open/airy feeling to the ILX's interior despite its compact size. |
| Visibility |
B
|
Typical sedan sightlines supplemented by a standard rearview camera (multi-view optional). |
| Cargo/Storage |
B
|
About 12-cubic-feet of trunk volume and gooseneck hinges regardless of model. Single-piece folding rear seatbacks are standard on all but ILX Hybrid model. |
A
Value
It's when you begin to look at what else is available for around $26K that the ILX really shines. Its generous standard equipment and competitive fuel economy (not to mention good looks) should give it some traction in the market.
| Build Quality (vs. $) |
A
|
We would expect high-quality materials and good fit and finish from Acura and are pleased to report the ILX doesn't disappoint here. |
| Features(vs. $) |
B
|
The list of standard features on the ILX is impressive and up-level options are not overly expensive. |
| Cost |
A
|
With a base ILX priced around $26K and a fully optioned ILX w/Technology package at about $31K, the luxury-branded Acura is aggressively priced for the segment regardless. |
| MPG |
B
|
The most common ILX (2.0L 5-spd auto) earns 28 mpg combined. The other versions range from 25 mpg combined for the "hot rod" 2.4L up to 38 mpg combined for the ILX Hybrid model. |
| Warranty |
B
|
The ILX is covered by a competitive 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty that includes roadside assistance. Powertrain warranty extends to 5 years/60,000 miles. |
| Ownership |
A
|
Honda's Acura brand has a well-earned reputation of providing a sporty alternative to boring luxury cars plus years of carefree ownership. The new ILX is poised to do the same. |
B
Fun To Drive
While we won't say the ILX is the most fun-to-drive compact car in the segment, the ability to get one with a 201-hp engine and a 6-speed manual transmission helps its cause. The 2.0L model simply gets the job done.
| Driving Experience |
B
|
Some might compare the ILX to the Honda Civic, but the truth is that the ILX is far more polished and sophisticated in every way. |
| Personality |
B
|
The ILX is neither frenetic nor boring. It won't put you to sleep nor have you thinking you're a racecar driver. It strikes a nice balance of sporty competence and sharp style. |
