The 2019 Acura ILX is powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder that makes a healthy 201 horsepower. The engine is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This all adds up to sprightly performance from the powerful drivetrain, as well as relaxed cruising on the highway, thanks to the extra gears.
Power is sent to the front wheels in the ILX making for decent traction. Suspension tuning strikes a nice balance between handling and ride. The ILX feels smooth and controlled on twisty roads, but the suspension is still soft enough to soak up all but the biggest bumps.
The ILX bills itself as a small luxury car, and its list of standard features backs up that assertion. Standard items on the basic ILX include a 6-speaker sound system with Bluetooth, USB, Pandora and iPod connectivity, an SMS text messaging assistant, a multi-view rear facing camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, powered and heated side mirrors, LED headlights. AcuraWatch is also standard and includes collision mitigating braking, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
Upgrading to the Premium Package will add perforated leather seating surfaces, an 8-inch multifunction touch screen, an improved stereo with a subwoofer, HD radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a HomeLink garage door opener. The Technology Package adds a 10-speaker premium stereo, SiriusXM satellite radio and a 3D navigation system that can be linked to the climate control system. Finally, the sporty A-Spec Package brings 18-inch gray wheels, LED fog lights, dark body and interior accents, premium sport seats and more.
Smart Styling
Inexpensive Price Of Entry
Compact Footprint
Silky Smooth Transmission
Powerful Engine
For 2019, the Acura ILX is updated with a sportier, more sophisticated design that completely refreshes the front end with the new family grille and LED headlights. The rear fascia is also new. Inside, the dual-screen infotainment system has been revised and includes new graphics and a better interface, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The A-Spec package boasts new sport seats. The AcuraWatch safety suite is now standard on the ILX. Finally, the ILX's base price has been cut, and it now starts at under $27,000.
The Acura ILX is an entry-level compact luxury car. Despite its diverse feature set and high-end badge, the ILX actually starts at under $27,000. Being smaller than traditional luxury cars means that the ILX is right at home in the city, where parallel parking a large vehicle might be problematic. Buyers who don't necessarily want or need a large car may find themselves in the enviable position of being able to get luxury appointments in a small urban-friendly package.
