Overview & Reviews

Take one part car shoppers' desire for improved fuel economy, add two parts automakers' never-ending quest to bring younger buyers into the fold, shake well, and you have the Acura ILX.

Although based on the Honda Civic platform, the Acura ILX has enough different about it to fully justify its position as Acura's most affordable luxury sedan. It starts with sleeker styling as well as a higher-quality interior. There's also an impressive list of standard and optional luxury features that aren't offered on its more affordable cousin. The suspension has also been reworked for a better balance of ride comfort and sporting handling. Under the hood not much changes from the Civic, but there's still a choice of three different powertrains including the Acura brand's first gasoline-electric hybrid.

Put it all together and you have an entry-level luxury car that is both the smallest and most fuel-efficient model in the Acura  lineup. For shoppers looking to step up to a small sedan that's notably nicer than the norm yet is still very budget-friendly, the ILX should work out nicely.

Current Acura ILX
The Acura ILX is a compact sedan that's offered as a gas-only model and as a hybrid. Powering the base gas-only ILX model is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 150 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic. The performance-oriented ILX 2.4 gets a 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 201 hp and 170 lb-ft. This engine only comes mated to a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox.

The Acura ILX Hybrid model is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder working in concert with an electric motor for a total of 111 hp and 127 lb-ft. The latter employs a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that's tuned for crisper response compared to the unit used in the Civic Hybrid. As expected, EPA fuel economy estimates are quite good with the Hybrid, with combined mileage in the high 30s.

Standard equipment on both hybrid and gas-only base models includes keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, a sunroof, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a six-speaker audio system with Pandora Internet radio control. The Premium trim (not available on the Hybrid) adds features like xenon headlights, foglights and a rearview camera. The Technology trim (not available on the 2.4) builds on the equipment of the Premium with amenities like a voice-controlled navigation system, digital music storage and a 10-speaker surround-sound audio system. Feature content for the various trims differs slightly between hybrid and gas-only models.

In reviews, we've found that the ILX is a nimble little urban runabout, but is hampered by its underpowered engines. The 2.0-liter engine offers adequate power for getting around town, but is much slower than every other luxury-branded compact car. The more spirited 2.4-liter engine improves the situation, but even its acceleration is slower than average and its appeal is limited due to its obligatory manual transmission. The Hybrid is similarly slow compared to other hybrids and more notably, its fuel economy is worse.

Within the cabin, upscale touches give the ILX a noticeably more premium feel than the Honda model on which it's based, but don't match other luxury-branded compact sedans. On the upside, you get a lot more features for your money.

Used Acura ILX Models
The Acura ILX debuted in 2013. It's remained mostly unchanged, but 17-inch wheels, leather upholstery, a power driver seat and heated front seats were added to the standard features list for the gas-only model in 2014.

User Reviews:

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  Fun little car - 2014 Acura ILX
  By pwdrday - September 11 - 7:44 am

  When I started looking at this car, I found it to be mediocre on paper. Acceleration, handling, mpg, etc all seemed acceptable, but it didnt stand out. However, I ended up taking a test drive because manual transmission cars have become hard to find, and they were giving big discounts. After a test drive though, I realized that this car was something special, and the more I drive it the more I like it. Im happy to say that this car has a much higher fun factor than I originally expected. The clutch and transmission are just a pure joy to use. Its definitely the nicest manual transmission Ive ever had, including multiple VWs, a Saab, and multiple Subarus. The engine also loves to rev and has a wonderful sound for a 4 cyl. Its no track monster, but for real road driving, I cant think of a car that was more fun (even more than my WRX) to drive around without doing illegal speeds. Lastly, I find that the EPA gas mileage is easily exceeded without trying. If I had to knock it on anything, its the road noise. For a premium badge, I would have expected to be more quiet. However, if you are OK with the normal noise levels found in Hondas, this is a great choice for a little sporty car!

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  Great Alternative to Boring Commuter Cars! - 2014 Acura ILX
  By david_d82 - July 15 - 10:51 pm

  I bought my 2014 ILX 2.4 a little over a month ago, and its been a great purchase. I did a LOT of research before purchasing this car, and I am very happy that I was not scared off by some of the reviews from the automotive journalism industry. First, this car is not a rebadged Civic Si. different dimensions, different suspension setup and hardware. Also no garish wing or ugly red interior inserts like the Si. Yay! Great manual transmission, too. clutch pickup is spot-on, and shifts are super smooth. nice enough features for the price, but infotainment screen is kinda chintzy, and rear seat passengers really need HVAC vents! Reminds me a lot of my 2006 TSX with a manual only better

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  I absolutely love this car!!! Best car purchase I have made. - 2014 Acura ILX
  By aeroj101 - June 23 - 12:50 am

  I bought the manual 2.4 version about a month ago, and I am completely in love with this car. First, I think I am probably the target consumer (young professional at a corporate job). I wouldnt want a Civic Si, but I definitely wanted a manual transmission (and the MT option is the ONE main reason I chose the ILX over a Lexus IS I dont care if the IS is faster, I wanted an MT). The sound isolation is good, road comfort is great (Im not trying to experience all the bumps on the road), and I personally love hearing the tune of engine revving up (its beautiful, and its a manual, and thats part of the fun). I am committed to only owning MT cars, and am glad Acura makes a few.

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  Ignore the automotive writers and just drive one yourself - 2014 Acura ILX
  By scorpio69er - March 18 - 1:16 pm

  I own the 2014 ILX base 2.0L 5-sp auto. First off, the 150 hp engine is just fine, thanks. I can cruise at 80 mph on the interstate all day long. Ive had no issues running at very high altitude climbing fairly steep grades, and getting up to speed is quick at about 8 sec 0-60 -- once the engine is broken in. Its also economical. Im averaging 30 mpg with ~8K miles of mixed driving. The differences between the 2014 and 2013 are not minor. The 2014 now comes standard with heated leather seats (drivers is powered), rear-backup camera, 17" alloys, and additional sound deadening, including active noise reduction. Im 61" and I fit in the car just fine. Go test drive one yourself.

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  Theres more to life than horsepower! - 2014 Acura ILX
  By 1speedbike - March 14 - 6:06 pm

  Was apprehensive at first considering the HP ratings, BUT for the price this car cant be beat! Lots of high-tech and comfort features for <$30K. Heated power comfy seats, rear camera, voice integration, bluetooth, active noise cancellation, NAV, leather, sleek styling. This is NOT just an "upgraded Civic." Obviously, engine leaves you wanting, but its buttery smooth and loves to rev, and is plenty for highway passing. Suspension is not too taut like a sports car, but not overly soft. Steering is typical Honda light, but also responsive. Great handling for FWD. Also, super LIGHT car with consistent 30 mpg. Other than power, it has everything I could ask for in an entry luxury sedan.

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  Excellent Commuter Car - 2014 Acura ILX
  By bybchucky - March 2 - 9:52 am

  I recently purchased an ILX with the Tech pkg, and I am very pleased with it. I had a 2008 Acura TL prior to purchasing this car, and I thought I would miss the V6 acceleration, but I honestly dont. A lot of the reviews say the 150 hp is underpowered, but I find the car to be adequate. In fact, it picks up quite nicely on the highway and I dont have trouble passing cars. The interior is nice, well built, and feels a lot wider than what the outside appearance would make you believe. The rear leg room is also excellent considering this is a compact car. As stated above, this is an excellent commuter car.

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  Excellent Value! - 2014 Acura ILX
  By pda2 - February 25 - 8:55 pm

  Well, I have the smaller engine in the automatic and it aint a beast..but with the shifter paddles you can manipulate the gears slightly for a little bit more oooumph. From a quality to price standpoint, this is VERY hard to beat. I looked at Chevys, Toyotas, even the Mazda 3 and 6, all similar price points. The quality inside and lines out, make this look like and feel like a much more respectable and high quality ride. What car would you rather show up in at a clients house? What car would you rather trust with a child inside? LCD screen is VERY small BUT the trunk holds 2 sets+ of golf clubs. It rides very smooth, seats adjust easily, the interface is user friendly with simple buttons

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  Great performance and great value - 2014 Acura ILX
  By stevenrose - October 29 - 7:39 am

  I have to say my new ILX is a great car. The engine is really responsive and the shifting is really smooth. The interior is finished very well and the leather wrapped steering wheel feels great on the hands. Handling is excellent, the car goes exactly where you point it. After the car is broken in, the car is really sporty to drive. I think the car is underrated. Consumer Reports does a great job recommending the ILX, other reviewers complain that the ILX is underpowered, but I would give it a test drive. I drove the new Accord and the Subaru Legacy and I liked the ILX a lot better. I like how compact and zippy it feels. I am an Acura Fan and in love with the ILX

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  Excellet Commuter Car - 2013 Acura ILX
  By bybchucky - September 13 - 6:04 pm

  I recently purchased a 2013 ILX with the Tech pkg, and I am very pleased with it. I had a 2008 Acura TL prior to purchasing this car, and I thought I would miss the V6 acceleration, but I honestly dont. A lot of the reviews say the 150 hp is underpowered, but I find the car to be adequate. In fact, it picks up quite nicely on the highway and I dont have trouble passing cars. The interior is nice, well built, and feels a lot wider than what the outside appearance would make you believe. The rear leg room is also excellent considering this is a compact car. As stated above, this is an excellent commuter car.

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  best deal in town if you do your homework - 2013 Acura ILX
  By sethwas - April 22 - 9:52 am

  How to sum this car up - there are no other vehicles in this size that have this many features at this price. That could be good or bad. There are larger vehicles that have this many features at this price (with no gas mileage penalty) and there are plenty of vehicles that are this size that are less expensive and have less features. So if you could lease a Civic EX-L or a premium package ILX (same monthly payment after you factor in gas and insurance) which would you choose? If you could buy a loaded Accord or Mazda6 for the same price which would you choose? Does the badge or dealer experience matter? All are amazing vehicles - you just need to decide where you want to be.