By Nauman Farooq
The Acura ILX has been around since 2013, but over the last six years, it has received some updates!
Upon its launch, it was available with three engine choices -which included a hybrid- but now it is just down to one powertrain, and thankfully they kept the best engine and gearbox for the model.
While there are exterior and interior updates, they are quite minor. So, let’s take a closer look at this model!
Styling: I always thought the ILX was a handsome vehicle, and now with its updated front grille, cool side skirts and rear spoiler (A-Spec), and fog lights (also on A-Spec), this compact sized sedan looks quite aggressive! I like it, and so did everyone I showed the car too. So, “Kudos” to the Acura design team, for getting this car right!
Interior: The interior looks fairly identical to the ILX that made its debut back in 2013, but there are some changes. The easy one to spot is the transmission selector, which is no longer a gear lever, but instead has a row of buttons close to your right thigh, which allows you to select what you want to do with the transmission and its variable drive modes.
Apart from that, the interior is largely the same, and that’s no bad thing, because the seats are comfortable, you get decent space for four adults (five in a pinch), and in the A-Spec model, you also get a navigation system to go with the infotainment system.
Things like adaptive cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote starter, and a lot more comes as standard – this is a well-equipped vehicle.
Powertrain: Under the hood of all ILX models, you’ll find just one engine, and it’s a bit of a sweetheart!. It’s a 2.4L, naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder motor that features double over head cams, and intelligent variable valve technology. It produces 201 hp, and 180 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to just the front wheels via a eight-speed dual clutch gearbox, which not only changes gears very quickly, but is also very smooth. This is an excellent combination of engine and gearbox, and the end result is driver satisfaction!
Driving Dynamics: The 2019 ILX A-Spec is one of those cars, that just cannot be defined by its numbers; although the numbers are not bad. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes about 6.9 seconds – which is decent, but not mind blowing!
What sets this car apart from most others, is the way it delivers its performance. It’s i-VTEC engine just loves to rev, and sounds good while doing it. Combine that with its wonderful gearbox, and you just end up smiling every time to change a gear.
It also handles really well, in fact, it is the perfect back roads carver, as it allows you to carry lots of speed into corners, and the balance between body roll and ride tautness is quite excellent. I can’t even complain about its steering, as it gives good feedback, and is quick enough for sporty driving. Make no mistake, this is a fun car to drive!
Fuel Economy: I did not get to conduct my usual fuel economy test, as I had done a lot more highway driving with it, than city driving, but according to Acura Canada, the ILX can achieve a city and highway combined fuel economy of 8.6L/100km, and that seems about right.
Pricing: The 2019 Acura ILX starts from $29,990 – and regardless of the trim, you’re getting the same engine and gearbox combo, which is excellent!
Verdict: The ILX might not be the newest car on sale right now, but for the money, it is in my opinion, one of the best!
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