2013 Acura ILX at the Chicago Auto Show

The 2013 Acura ILX standard 2.0-liter model rates a more meager 150 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid checks in at just 111 horsepower and 127 pound-feet.

The two other versions of the 2013 Acura ILX liter and the Hybrid) offer somewhat less (2.0-liter) or markedly less (Hybrid) performance, with essentially identical feel otherwise. 2013 Acura ILX

For starters, Acura promised the ILX would not just be a rebadged Civic and by all accounts the ILX is entirely unique. Style-wise the ILX fits the bill for the segment.

Monotone cabins (black leather is standard on the 2.4) look a bit simple, though in true Acura fashion there’s no shortage of buttons. Opt for tan leather on the 2.0-liter model and the lower dash section matches the seats, with sweeping faux-aluminum dividing the lighter section below from the black top.

Base models get a low-tech single overhead cam 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine based off the 1.8-liter in the Civic. As for those numbers, Acura quotes 24 mpg city and 35 highway, besting the 21/32 rating of the Vera no by a significant margin.

HYBRID OPTION

For those who favor fuel economy over performance, Acura is also offering an 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid starting from $28,900. Total system output is rated at 111 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque with a 39-mpg city rating and a 38-mpg highway rating and a combined 38 mpg. That’s well off the Civic Hybrid’s 44-mpg average, and falls short of the Lexus CT200h as well, with its 40/43/42 mpg rating.

We were impressed to get 40 mpg during out test drive, however, Honda’s rather rudimentary Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system is unbecoming of a premium car with a start-stop system that’s abrupt and sometimes stutters off a start. All ILX models also get an Active Noise Control system that uses the car’s audio system to 2013 Acura ILX you from hearing noises outside the car. Acura claims it’s capable of reducing up to 10 decibels of sound.

A well-rounded car, the 2013 Acura ILX  offers luxury for less and is certain to also deliver brand qualities like reliability and durability. The car’s strongest feature, and the one that will get consumers into Acura dealerships is something luxury buyers crave – choice.

Despite lacking a punchy inline six-cylinder (much less a stout turbo version) the ILX generates a slightly-frenetic 201 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque in 2.4-liter guise. The standard 2.0-liter model rates a more meager 150 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid checks in at just 111 horsepower and 127 pound-feet.