“Very nice good looking safe car. A little small inside but it's okay for small kids”
2016 Acura ILX: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2016 Acura ILX gets a major mid-cycle refresh, led by a new standard 201-hp 2.4-liter engine paired with an 8-speed automatic. This is a substantial update rather than a carryover year.
About the 2016 Acura ILX
1st generation (2013-2022), major 2016 refresh
Acura positions the ILX as its gateway sports sedan: a compact luxury four-door that mixes sporty looks, Acura brand cachet, and a strong standard feature list in a smaller footprint than the TLX. The model’s core job is everyday commuting with a little extra style and driver engagement, and Acura leans on standard comfort features, a punchy four-cylinder engine, and easy drivability to separate it from some tighter or more expensive compact luxury rivals.
Acura positioned the 2016 ILX as its entry-level sports sedan, with the stronger engine and updated styling giving every version a more focused feel. Even the base model has LED headlights, heated front seats, keyless start, dual-zone climate control, a moonroof, and paddle shifters.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
A 201-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder became the only engine, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. This replaced the previous lineup's 5-speed automatic and 6-speed manual setups.
Styling
The front and rear were redesigned with Jewel Eye LED headlights, a new grille, and LED taillights.
Safety
A new AcuraWatch Plus package added another driver-assistance option to the lineup.
Cabin
More sound insulation and thicker front-door glass reduced cabin noise. Leather upholstery changed from standard to optional.
Structural
Acura added a stronger body structure along with chassis updates.
2016 Acura ILX specs and features by trim
| Feature | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, i-VTEC, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd DCT SptShft |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 201 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 12.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34 in |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |
| Alarm System | |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |
| Blindspot Sensors | |
| Lane Departure Warning | |
| Alloy Wheels | |
| Fog Lights | |
| LED Headlights | |
| Power Moonroof | |
| Rear Spoiler | |
| Navigation System | |
| Premium Audio | |
| Smartphone Interface | |
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |
| Heated Front Seats | |
| Leather Seats | |
| Power Driver Seat | |
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |
| Push-Button Engine Start | |
| Remote Start | |
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2016 Acura ILX a major update over the 2015 model?
Yes. The 2016 ILX received a major refresh with a new standard engine and transmission, redesigned front and rear styling, a stronger body structure, and more cabin-noise insulation.
What engine and transmission does the 2016 Acura ILX have?
Every 2016 ILX has a 201-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic with paddle shifters.
Does the 2016 Acura ILX have a manual transmission?
No. The 2016 refresh replaced the previous 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic setups with one 8-speed automatic across the lineup.
What safety change did the 2016 Acura ILX receive?
The 2016 lineup added an AcuraWatch Plus package, giving shoppers another version equipped with Acura's driver-assistance suite. The refresh also brought a stronger body structure.
Is the 2016 Acura ILX worth considering over the 2015 model?
Yes, especially if the stronger standard engine, 8-speed automatic, newer exterior design, and quieter cabin matter to you. The 2016 model is one of the more meaningful update years in the first-generation ILX's run.
2016 Acura ILX Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2016 Acura ILX.
4.1
2016 Acura ILX
(319 reviews)
“The ILX is a great compact car - it drives well, fits everything I need for one new small kiddo and has great technology features.”
“The vehicle a lot of safety and smart like when you turn the cruise control on the car will brake to keep the distance between you and the car in front you like it is driving itself and more features love the car”