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Acura ILX: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 13, 2026
The Acura ILX is a compact luxury sedan that served as Acura’s entry-level car from 2013 through 2022. It is known for combining Acura styling and everyday comfort with solid value and relatively low-drama ownership.
The ILX spent its entire run as Acura’s gateway sport sedan. Its focus stayed on compact size, everyday comfort, generous equipment, and value rather than a roomy back seat or cutting-edge cabin technology. Early cars offered several distinct engines, including a hybrid and a manual model, while the 2016 refresh simplified the formula around a stronger engine and quick-shifting automatic.
Strengths
- The 2016-and-newer ILX has a lively 201-horsepower engine paired with a quick-shifting eight-speed automatic.
- Every 2019-and-newer ILX includes Acura’s driver-assistance safety suite as standard equipment.
- The ILX emphasizes value and standard equipment instead of making buyers pay mainly for a luxury badge.
- Its compact size and everyday comfort make it easy to live with as a commuter car.
- Fuel economy is sensible for its performance, with the 2022 model rated at 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Who it's for
The ILX fits someone who wants a small, upscale daily driver without the complexity or higher ownership concerns often associated with German entry-luxury cars. It makes the most sense for a solo commuter or couple who values easy ownership and a lively drive more than rear-seat space or the newest cabin technology.
Acura ILX lineup
In later years, the Base model is the straightforward value pick, while the Premium Package adds the more upscale comfort and cabin experience many luxury-car shoppers expect. A-Spec versions are mainly for buyers who want a sportier appearance inside and out, not a separate high-performance model. The Technology Package sits at the top with navigation and upgraded audio, and for 2021 and 2022 it is paired only with A-Spec styling.
Acura ILX generations
From 2013 to 2022, the ILX spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2013.
1st Generation (2013–2022)
The ILX debuted as Acura’s compact entry-level sedan with gasoline, manual-transmission, and hybrid versions. A major 2016 update consolidated the lineup around a 2.4-liter engine and 8-speed dual-clutch automatic, while a second refresh for 2019 brought sharper styling, updated screens, and a standard driver-assist suite.
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2022
A carryover final year with the same engine, transmission, safety features, and four-model lineup as 2021.
2021Trim changes
The standalone Technology version left the lineup, leaving its navigation and upgraded audio paired only with A-Spec.
2020
The styling, safety features, powertrain, and lineup from the 2019 refresh carried over.
2019Mid-cycle update
New front and rear styling, LED lighting, reshaped seats, and a standard driver-assist suite arrived. Premium versions also gained updated dual screens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2018Trim changes
The Special Edition joined the lineup with 18-inch wheels, side sills, a rear spoiler, and other A-Spec-inspired styling.
2017
The engine, transmission, and lineup from the 2016 update carried over.
2016Mid-cycle update
Acura refreshed the styling and made a 201-hp 2.4-liter engine with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic standard across the lineup. Body, suspension, and cabin-noise improvements also arrived.
2015Trim changes
The established styling, engines, safety features, and technology carried over.
2014
The entry 2.0-liter version gained leather-trimmed and heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, 17-inch wheels, upgraded audio, and a multi-view rear camera.
2013New generation
The all-new ILX launched as a compact luxury sedan with 2.0-liter automatic, 2.4-liter manual, and hybrid powertrains.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Acura ILX.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Acura ILX a sedan or a hatchback?
The Acura ILX is a four-door compact sedan. It seats five and has a separate trunk; Acura did not sell an ILX hatchback body style.
Is the Acura ILX considered a luxury car?
Yes. The ILX was Acura’s entry-level luxury sedan, blending a compact size with features such as heated seats, a moonroof, LED lighting, and a more premium cabin than a basic small sedan.
Does the Acura ILX come as a hybrid?
Yes, but only early in the ILX’s run. A Hybrid was sold for 2013 and 2014 with a 1.5-liter gas-electric system and a smooth, efficiency-focused automatic transmission. Later ILX models are gas-only.
Does the Acura ILX have AWD?
No. The ILX is a front-wheel-drive compact sedan. Shoppers who need power sent to all four wheels will need to look beyond the ILX lineup.
Was the Acura ILX sold with a manual transmission?
Yes, on early 2.4L models. That version paired a 201-hp engine with a six-speed manual. From the major 2016 refresh onward, the ILX used a 201-hp 2.4-liter engine and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic.
What is the Acura ILX known for?
The ILX is known for strong four-cylinder power, quick automatic shifts, compact dimensions, and straightforward everyday comfort. Its appeal is more about Acura styling and low-drama ownership than a roomy back seat or cutting-edge cabin tech.
Is the Acura ILX a good fit for a family?
It can handle a small family, but it suits commuters, couples, and solo drivers better. The ILX seats five, though the later model has 34 inches of rear legroom and a 12.4-cubic-foot trunk, so rear-seat and cargo space are modest.
How many generations of the Acura ILX are there?
There is one ILX generation, covering 2013 through 2022 with major refreshes along the way. The ILX ended after 2022, and the Integra became Acura’s new entry-level compact for 2023.
Acura ILX Reviews
What owners are saying about the Acura ILX.
4.1
Acura ILX
(1,711 reviews)
“The 2022 Acura ILX is a luxury car that is worth the price. Its driving performance, safety features, interior and exterior design is perfect and was strategically done with the driver in mind”
“My only hesitation with the ILX is the underwhelming engine choice in the 2015. I hope in the latest 2016 model year it is upgraded. The ILX is a great value however I think with more torque and horsepower this car would be PERFECT!”
“the screen above the steering wheel does not provide any information like miles per gallon or miles driven.... I don't know how to use it at all.”
“A great small luxury car. Easy to handle, great mileage, nice ride, good power and pick up speed.”
“The Acura ILX is a comfortable, easy to drive, good looking car. It has advanced technology and features.”