Acura ILX Review

The 2014 Acura ILX ranks 12 out of 13 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of the Acura ILX, as well as reliability and safety data.Critics say the 2014 Acura ILX has a number of high-tech features, but that it’s not as luxurious, nimble or powerful as other cars in its class.The base 2014 Acura ILX has a four-cylinder engine that some reviewers think could use more power. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard, and one reviewer says that the ILX might offer better acceleration if it had more gears. A more powerful four-cylinder engine is available, which is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, and most reviewers agree this combination makes the ILX more fun to drive. Still, one critic writes that an automatic transmission should be available with the more powerful engine. According to the EPA, the ILX gets up to 24/35 mpg city/highway, which is good for the class. Most test drivers say that the ILX goes around corners fairly well, with just a little body lean when the road gets twisty. Additionally, one reviewer thinks that the steering feels a bit numb. However, most auto writers note that the ILX offers a comfortable ride and strong brakes.

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 Test drivers say the 2014 Acura ILX is not as luxurious inside as some competitors, but they also write that it’s built solidly with quality materials. Critics note that the front seats are comfortable, but some also wish there was more headroom. Reviewers say that rear-seat space is adequate. Although the ILX’s trunk is smaller than the trunks found in competitors like the Buick Verano and the Acura TSX, one critic says there is sufficient space. They do, however, wish the ILX had a folding rear seat instead of just a pass-through for longer items. One reviewer criticizes the ILX’s dash for being a bit button-heavy. Critics agree the Acura ILX is well-equipped for its class. It comes standard with leather seats, push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control, a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming and a seven-speaker stereo, which includes a USB port, an auxiliary input jack and Pandora Internet radio compatibility. An available technology package adds features like navigation and a more powerful 10-speaker ELS surround-sound audio system.

• "Ride quality, handling, and interior appearance are pretty good, but this small Acura is largely unexceptional." -- Consumer Guide
• "Attractive and well-equipped, the 2014 Acura ILX is a respectable choice for a compact luxury sedan. Still, there are a number of worthy alternatives that savvy shoppers should consider." -- Edmunds
• "The 2014 ILX offers a sleek, upbeat look, snappy performance, crisp handling, a stylish interior and levels of technology, convenience and safety commensurate with buyers' expectations." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "If you're in the market for an entry-level vehicle from a premium automaker, by all means have a look at the ILX... just be sure to check out its competition before signing on the dotted line. As much as we'd like to tell you that the ILX heralds a return to Acura's roots - innovation, value and technology - we can't, because it simply doesn't." -- Autoblog (2013)

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Critics like the Acura TSX because of its top-quality cabin, athletic handling and powerful optional V6 engine. Additionally, most reviewers say that the TSX offers front seats that are spacious and comfortable.Automotive journalists praise the Buick Verano for its well-made interior and quiet cabin. Like the ILX, the Verano comes with many standard features, and it also has more trunk space than the ILX. 

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Details: 2014 Acura ILX

The 2014 Acura ILX seats five and has front-wheel drive. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a five-speed automatic transmission is standard and a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a six-speed manual transmission is optional. The ILX comes in four trims: five-speed automatic, five-speed automatic with premium package, five-speed automatic with technology package and six-speed manual with premium package. A hybrid model is also available and is reviewed separately. Several features that were optional last year are now standard on the 2014 ILX, including leather seats, a rearview camera and a more powerful audio system. Aside from these additions, the Acura ILX is unchanged for 2014. As a result, this overview uses applicable research and reviews from 2013 and 2014.
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