Car Review: 2013 Acura ILX

THE 2013 ACURA ILX REVIEW

Summary Review by Tess: The Compact Is Back

The all-new 2013 Acura ILX is a compact luxury sedan available in two trim levels and with seating for five. Available in two distinctive engine choices, the Acura ILX offers a sleek European-influenced exterior and a long list of standard features. While the interior may leave something to be desired in terms of top-tier premium materials, the ILX also lacks the premium price that typically goes along with those cosmetic details.

Under the hood
The standard engine for the 2013 Acura ILX is a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder that produces 150 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is well above average and weighs in at an outstanding 35 miles per gallon on the highway and 24 miles per gallon in stop-and-go city driving. (See estimated fuel costs with the ILX). Buyers who want more power can upgrade to the 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, which is capable of 201 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard for both engines; the 2.0-liter engine is paired with an exclusive five-speed automatic while a six-speed manual transmission is the only choice for the 2.4-liter engine. Safety features include air bags, rearview parking camera, stability controls, and antilock brakes.

(The 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid is reviewed separately).

Inside the cabin
The 2013 Acura ILX is available with keyless entry and startup, two-zone climate control, power mirrors, windows and locks, a sunroof, a rearview parking camera, and a CD stereo system with Bluetooth, iPod, and USB interfaces. Leather upholstery is optional; other options include fog lights, surround-sound stereo, and a premium navigation system. (Check out the special Premium and Technology packages).

On the road
The ILX puts the focus on luxury and comfort, but the 2.4-liter engine configuration can offer a few thrills behind the wheel as well. This four-cylinder powerhouse can go from 0 to 60 in 7.1 seconds, a respectable time for this segment. For most commuters, however, the 2.0-liter base engine and its superior fuel economy will prove more appealing in everyday use.

Conclusions
The 2013 Acura ILX marks the automaker’s return to producing exceptional compact vehicles. However, the lack of leather upholstery and a few other omissions on the list of standard features may reduce its appeal for buyers looking for a real entry-level luxury experience.

Details:
Engine: 2.0-liter SOHC inline four-cylinder
Horsepower & Torque: 150 hp/140 lb-ft
Transmission: FWD five-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 24/35
0 to 60: 9.0 seconds
Base MSRP: $25,900

Engine: 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder
Horsepower & Torque: 201 hp/170 lb-ft
Transmission: FWD six-speed manual
Fuel Economy: 22/31
0 to 60: 7.1 seconds

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