Six models are offered: a base five-speed automatic, five-speed auto with premium package, five-speed auto with technology package, six-speed manual with premium package, a base hybrid and a hybrid with a technology package. The hybrid models are Acura’s first and feature a 1.5-liter four-cylinder with a gas/electric powertrain.
The 2013 ILX in one respect made an inauspicious debut: Combined with its distant 2012 Honda CR-V sibling, the manufacturer recalled 172,000 units because of faulty door latches.
The Weekly Driver Test Drive
As a luxury sedan priced at near the average price of all new cars, I drove the ILX 2.4-liter (Premium) with 201 horsepower for a week with glee. It was delightful. It had a sports car exhaust growl and shifting the six-speed manual transmission was signature Acura — smooth.
Likewise, in city and highway driving scenarios, the new Acura was controlled and comfortable. Automatic transmission fanciers will likely be disappointed since the model is only available with a manual transmission.
But for car buyers considering a manual for the first time, Acura features such a precision-shifting transmission, a slew of manual converts wouldn’t be a surprise.
Equally impressive: The total price of the car is $895 (destination/delivery) more than than the MSRP. The included Premium Package features nearly a dozen items — heated front seats to leather-trim seats to a seven-speaker sound system. The standard featured lists features about 30 items — power everything to a good selection hi-tech adaptations.
Why, then, can’t more manufacturers list their cars at a total price near the MSRP? Sure, the price of items will be included one way or another. But why not simplify the tally with streamlined pricing?
As a compact sedan, the Acura ILX still offers 12.4 feet of cargo space and the rear seats fold down for more lengthy cargo items. It’s not an SUV, but there’s a good chuck of space for luggage or groceries or golf clubs.
Likes:
Acura is known for quality interior materials. The ILX follows suit.
Is there a longer standard features list in the car industry?
Entry level luxury sedan with 201 horsepower. Impressive.
Dislikes:
Available only with manual transmission in 2.4.-liter edition.
Facts & Figures: 2013 Acura ILX (Premium)
Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 7.1 seconds
Airbags (6):
Fuel economy: 22 mpg (city), 31 mpg (highway), 25 mpg (combined), six-speed manual transmission.
Government Safety Ratings: NTHSA, Not rated.
Horsepower: 201
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $29,200.00
Manufacturer’s Web site: www.acura.com.
Price As tested: $30,095.00
Warranty: Bumper to bumper, 4 years/50,000 miles; Powertrain, 6 years/70,000 miles; Roadside Assistance, 4 years/50,000 miles.
What Others Say:
“With the extra power and the manual, the ILX wakes up, becoming the frisky sports sedan it aspires to be. Maybe this is a sign that Acura is also finally stirring.” — CarandDriver.com
“The Acura ILX bridges a gap of sorts between regular compact cars and the current crop of premium compacts. Those who put more weight on a premium nameplate, electronic gadgets, and high-end appointments than they do on performance or absolute value for the money may find the ILX a worthy addition to their shopping list.” — Consumer Guide.
“With a dose of Acura luxury and civility, the Civic-based ILX seems to be in a class by itself. The closest competitor at the moment might be Buick’s Chevrolet Cruze-based Verano, at least until the Audi A3 sedan arrives in 2014.” — AutoWeek.com
The Weekly Driver’s Final Words:
“The ILX is Acura’s smallest and least expensive model. But the description doesn’t fit the car. The ILX has a lot to offer, including strong acceleration and overall power and a smooth, steady ride. For many manufacturers, the ILX just wouldn’t be considered an entry-level vehicle. That speaks well for the car and the manufacturer.”
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