2013 Acura ILX Buyer's Guide.

Honda's luxury division has been busy building models to meet the needs and desires of a more affluent consumer base, but now Acura has returned to the more affordable segment with a respectable entry into the four-door market. ILX is...

Honda's luxury division has been busy building models to meet the needs and desires of a more affluent consumer base, but now Acura has returned to the more affordable segment with a respectable entry into the four-door market. The ILX is an all-new offering from the Japanese automaker and is on showroom floor in three different configurations - base, premium and hybrid.

Main advantages

The standards in lLX are generous for its class. A sunroof, Bluetooth, Pandora integration, keyless entry and start, and a rearview camera all come packaged in this competitive little cutie.

Changes in 2013 year

The Acura ILX is a brand new offering for 2013.

What we like

The cabin feels expensive, and the architecture is massive, which provides good soundproofing. The Civic is great and the ILX is a bit better than the Civic. The exterior is a perfect blend of modern style with traditional lines - the design doesn't lean too much in either direction. The available technology package amplifies the sound to up to 10 speakers and gives you real-time information and navigation via AcuraLink, enhancing what is already quite a tech ride. The inclusion of a hybrid option gives buyers the opportunity to get real relief when refueling.

What worries us

The roominess factor isn't as great as it could be, but since ILX has come out and actually defined its own segment, it's hard to make a good comparison with nonexistent competitors. The grille is a bit retro (not cool vintage style) and the 2.0 in the base model is probably not the best choice if you live in a steep hilly area.

Available Models

Base:

• 2.0 liter inline 4-cylinder 5-speed automatic with 140 lb-ft of torque. torque, 150 hp and 24/35 mpg.

Premium:

• 2.4 liter inline 4-cylinder 6-speed manual transmission with 170 lb-ft of torque. torque, 201 hp and 22/31 mpg.

Hybrid:

• 1.5 liter inline 4-cylinder with electric motor, 127 lb-ft. torque, 111 hp and 39/38 mpg.
  
  

Key Feedback

In August 2012, Honda recalled the cars due to the possibility of the door latch mechanism failing if the locks are activated while the door handle is being used. This could potentially lead to the door opening unexpectedly while driving or in the event of an accident. The company issued notices as well as a statement that the problem would be fixed free of charge.

In July 2014, Honda recalled the cars due to possible headlight overheating. This may cause melting or even fire. Notices have been sent to the owners and the problem can be fixed free of charge.

General questions

There are very few complaints about this model. One interesting report states that car alarms and locks spontaneously turned on and then turned off again. The dealership didn't find the cause and others have come across this problem with no answer.