2020 Acura ILX

Acura ILX had a significant makeover in 2019, and its the newest car in Acura's lineup to get the precision concept design. For 2020 it bounces back with similar looks and features that make it the price leader in the compact luxury car segment. While the ILX is well-equipped and attractively priced but it is brought down by a 2.4-liter motor that could desperately use forced-induction, which most of the rivals in the segment do.

As it is still based on a Civic, the ILX fails in elegance and comfort. The ILX value proposal becomes sweeter when you factor in the extra cost in standard safety and technology content in Europen rivals. The Acura ILX takes on the likes of Mercedes-Benz A-class and Audi A3.

Acura offers the 2020 ILX in three varying trims: Base, Premium, and Technology. The base package starting at $26,995 doesn't offer a lot apart from LED headlights, dual-zone climate control, power moonroof, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, USB port, and leatherette upholstery.

One is highly recommended climbing up to at least Premium trim for $1,750 more that adds smartphone integration(Apple Car Play and Android Auto), leather seats, and some additional features to AcuraWatch driver safety aids.

The Technolgy package is pricey at $3,750 over the base ILX but it adds navigation, a multi-view rearview camera, Acura's connected services. and an awesome 10-speaker audio system. Choosing the Technology Package automatically combines the Premium Package.

* Prices including the destination charge.

Finally, there's the A-Spec package which brings no added power, but they do attach sporty aptitude. You get larger 18-inch wheels and unique exterior(fog lights, rear spoiler) and interior(sport seats with suede insertions, a black headliner, and aluminum pedals) aesthetics. The A-Spec package can be added with the Premium($30,750) or Technology($32,650) packages. 

All trims are powered by a 2.4L inline four-pot which chunks out 201 horses and 180-pound feet of torque. The power gets transferred to the front wheels via an 8 speed automated manual transmission. A plus point because most of the rivals still use a six or seven-speed automatic transmission.

Which Acura ILX  model to choose?

The base ILX doesn't bring enough niceties to the table, the absence of necessary additions such as smartphone integration is questionable. We would recommend you step up to a Premium or Technology package that adds a host of luxurious upgrades. The A-Spec package may present the myth of enhanced performance, but the kit only outfits cosmetic changes that aren't worth your hard-earned bucks.

There are relatively few standalone accessories, although you can add on back-up parking sensors for $528, a decklid spoiler for $399 (not on the A-Spec), and added inside illumination for $159.

The 2020 ILX elects a place in Acura’s list that was one ruled by to sporty treaties such as the Integra. Sadly, it doesn’t prevail up to that legacy. Gazing around the realm, you’ll see small-displacement turbocharged engines powering most rivals in this segment. 

However, 2020 Acura ILX uses a naturally-aspirated 201-hp 2.4-liter double-overhead-cam 4-cylinder mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The power is routed to the front wheels as standard and all-wheel drive is not even an option. There is no optional 6-speed manual transmission like in the Honda Civic Si, but the slick-shifting automatic gets the job done. Also, wheel-mounted paddles-shifters can make driving more pleasant.

The ILX is adorned with the same 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as the TLX($35000 est) which is 400 pounds heavier and slower than the ILX, so surprisingly you get a faster car at a lower price point. It is also better than the rivals, as they still use a six-speed automatic transmission.

The i-VTEC engine comes to life over 4,000 rpm, which makes it challenging to drive in stop and go traffic. It causes the ILX to feel somewhat dull at lower speeds or from a standing start. The absence of turbochargers and lack of engine responsiveness limits down the fun but can be considered Acura ILX's most prominent weakness. Some of the rivals like Mazda 3 are also available with all-wheel-drive as an option.

The engine feels more potent at higher revs and with 201 horsepower, the ILX suggests a bit more oomph than a bunch of other small cars. However, the lack of a turbocharger makes the ILX sluggish at lower rpm's as compared to the other rivals. Even the Mazda 3, which is powered by a naturally aspirated powertrain but it disappoints to master the dual-nature provided by the Acura ILX.

Also, Read

Why Honda Accord is better than the ILX?

Acura ILX 0 to 60

The ILX only comes to life after you get the tach needle well beyond the 4,000-rpm mark. One thing which will have a perpetual impact on you is its buttery-smooth transmission and prompt response. Its 2.4-liter powertrain is proficient in launching the small sedan from standstill to 60 mph in a little over 6 seconds and climbs to electronically limited at 130 mph under 20 seconds. 

The lower curb weight united with a responsive gearbox performs a significant role in giving the ILX an advantage over the others. Yet, one can't help but admire how a turbocharged engine would remodel the ILX driving dynamics. Most of the people also vouch for the Acura TLX which comes with an optional V6 powertrain and much better performance at a nominal price increase.

The ILX’s 180 lb-ft of torque is one of the lowest in competition, and you’ll surely discern while trying to pass alongside turbocharged rivals. The Ford Fusion proves to be a slower one because of the undesired extra weight it bears. Kia Optima comes close to Acura in terms of 0 to 60 acceleration time. The Mazda 3 sedan takes the second last spot despite having the biggest powertrain in the lot.

Ride and Handling

Acura ILX is a level up in driving refinement from the Honda Civic or small premium sedan that is a little cheaper and offers the richness of its German-badged competitors. It is easy to maneuver around town and presents a comparably satisfying experience behind the wheel as compared to the rivals. Those exploring razor-sharp driving dynamics may be disappointed by the ILX’s light steering as it is not good on winding roads.

Its comfort-tuned suspension is excellent for getting around, but not as skilled when it comes to having outright fun. The A-Spec’s bigger wheels don’t help much in this respect, primarily in terms of comfort. You will hear road noise inside the cabin, particularly when traversing uneven roads that don't add up to premium experience. However, ILX’s standard all-season tires provide pleasing levels of hold for this front-wheel-drive compact sedan.

The engine is very smooth but sadly even the 8-speed fails to raise what are contrarily the bases of the last-generation Honda Civic Si. The less responsive powertrain and lack of turbochargers make the Acura feel isolated in competition. The Acura ILX rides with the briskness of a Honda Civic while keeping its calm entry-lux attitude.

The ILX feels cemented to the road even over bigger bumps. Even though it feels sporty there are not many performance makeups in the suspension and the ILX experiences notable body roll while cornering with enthusiasm.

Braking

The Acura ILX gives reassuring braking feedback with its 4-wheel disc brakes. They are up to the task of making it agile with excellent pedal modulation and good bite at sane speed, also when executing an emergency stop.

The ILX  was held out of Top Safety Pick claim by its poorly rated headlights while its automated emergency braking system was rated “Superior.”

There is no nose dive at all while severe braking and this can be attributed to its low ground clearance which aids the center of gravity and hence contributes to a more tranquil ride. When contrasted to the rivals it arrives with the least braking distance.

 The 2020 Acura ILX happens to have the largest front rotors of the group but is the reverse at the rear with the most petite of the lot. Mazda 3 is the smallest of the lot but still stops shy of the ILX because of its humbler rotors. The Mazda 3 sedan takes the second spot after the ILX while the Ford Fusion and Kia Optima take the third and fourth spots respectively. 

Acura's 2.4-liter engine isn't the most exciting performer and requires premium fuel. Although, it delivers an acceptable fuel economy of 28 mpg combined, which is unremarkable but tolerable. The 2020 Acura ILX is able to return an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, which is above average for this segment.

Amidst a small 13.2-gallon gas tank, frequent fuel fill-ups while long drives are a burden. Acura could have supplemented few more gallons to the tank which would have addressed it as a nice tourer as well.

The Kia optima will be preferred for the long hauls as it has got the biggest fuel tank of 18.5 gallons, which is significantly bigger in competition. The Mazda 3  provides an extraordinary 30 mpg combined followed by the ILX. The Kia Optima and Ford Fusion return a similar average of 27 mpg combined.

As the Acura ILX looks forward to rival german opponents but when the fit and finish are compared, it lags somewhat.  Like with different cars in this division, the Acura ILX's cabin is spacious for the driver and the front-seat passenger but confined for those in the rear. The interior design gives hints that it has got the underpinnings of a Honda Civic. The outward visibility is great and all the controls are easy to reach.

Seating and Comfort

Acura's interior offers a delicate amalgam of effective functionality and upscale design, without being overly showy. A long list of standard features covers for the ILX's budget, hollow-feeling plastic, and its noisy cabin at a higher speed. The dashboard and layout seem antiquated when related to the ultra-modern screen that embellishes the dash of the A-class or Audi A3 sedan.

The Acura ILX can seat five passengers with ease, and its well-bolstered front seats with a good driving position present a suitable environment to spend some time. However, taller passengers in the second row may feel cramped as roof design is not passenger-friendly.

The base Acura ILX front seats are heated and the driver’s seat is power-operated and features adjustable lumbar support. Walking up to the Premium package, the faux-leather is repaced with perforated two-tone leather. The A-Spec package combines tapestries of baby-soft faux-suede trim to the leather seats.

Technically a five-seater, the ILX is not so big dimensionwise, and there is limited headroom, even for adults of standard height. Acura ILX’s 38 inches of headroom in the front, which is sufficient but not exceptional.  It has got 36 inches of legroom in the rear, but just 36 inches of headroom makes matters worse for taller individuals.

The Acura's interior is much suited for four people instead of five. Kia Optima simply takes the edge here with its remarkable interior space. Mazda 3 and Acura ILX have a comparable arrangement of rows with the Mazda possessing a bit added second-row space. Most of the rivals offer better styling and more expensive materials.

Interior Features

• Sport Seats with Leatherette upholstery
• 8-Way Power Driver Seat with Power Lumbar Support
• Heated Front Seats
• Rear center armrest with cupholders
• Foldable Rear Seats
• Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
• Start/Stop Button
• Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel
• Steering Wheel-mounted Controls

Infotainment System

The base Acura ILX gets you a 5.0-inch infotainment display, though it's not a touch screen you need to control every feature through a rotary knob which is not that precise. It is a more upgraded version of the current system and not the new one found on the 2020 Acura RDX.

The dual-screen infotainment system may seem exciting at first glance, but it is less natural to operate than a single-screen layout. Working on two screens makes it even worse. The ILX's infotainment system is intuitive to explore, but rivals' systems feel more modern, with some of them featuring large screens.

The Premium package brings an enhanced 7-speaker  audio system with  Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, as well as SiriusXM and HD Radio. The second lower-mounted 7-inch touchscreen for audio and climate control functions. The Technology package brings the ELS 10-speaker system, created and tuned by Grammy award winner Elliot Scheiner.

 Infotainment Features

• ELS Studio Premium Audio System
• 10-Speakers
• SiriusXM COmpatibility
• Bluetooth and USB Audio Interface
• Pandora Compatible
• Auxiliary Input Jack
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatible

Cargo Capacity

The Acura ILX is not very generous when it comes to cargo space, it offers 12.4 cubic-feet of cargo space which is below average for this segment. You can also fold down the rear seats which will make space for longer items. However, it is not possible to still carry a rear passenger or two on one side while increasing trunk space. 

The expanded space is easily made with a remote seatback release lever positioned just inside the side of the trunk opening. There are not many cubby holes and storage areas present inside the cabin and overall the small-item storage isn't much.

Ford Fusion takes benefit of its more generous dimensions which advances a plan for the biggest cargo compartment of the group with 16 cubic feet of volume. The Optima appears next followed by Mazda 3 by a substantial margin.

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Know more about 2020 Acura ILX interior

Acura ILX saw a major redesign and came with the diamond pentagon grille in 2019, for 2020 it is carried forward with minimal changes. The front fascia was reworked with jewel-eye headlights, muscular power-bulge hood, reworked fender, and the A-pillar was brought forward.

Design and Styling

There are LED taillights in the rear and license plate holders moved from the center down to the bumper. All variants of the ILX get moonroof as standard which can be remotely operated with front windows. These switches worked well and made the ILX resemble a smaller TLX, which it is actually.

The A-spec package brings some unique interior and exterior bits liked backed out chrome grille and headlights, a lip spoiler, and a chrome-tipped exhaust. The 2020 Acura looks very sports when compared to other rival and the design still cuts quite a chic figure.

For a long time, ILX was out shadowed by its older brother the TLX. It is bigger and more luxurious though the ILX is all set to make a statement with all its updates, however, much of this will not come from its dimensions.

Acura builds a decent executive but it's not that sizeable than other cars in the lot. It is 182 inches long which is 10 inches shorter than the usual executive but holds up with Mazda’s offering.

Exterior Features

• Power Moonroof
• Remote Operate Windows
• LED Headlights with Auto On/Off Function
• LED Fog Lamps
• Heated Side Mirrors
• Decklid Spoiler
• Acoustic Glass Windshield
• Chrome Exhaust Tips 
• Rear Diffuser

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2020 Acura ILX si smaller than other luxury sedans?

NHTSA was kind to the ILX, granting it an overall five-star rating, but it secured only four stars in front crash and rollover tests. The ILX achieved likewise in IIHS trial but was kept out of Top Safety Pick contention by its poorly rated headlights. Acura's signature AcuraWatch suite consists of several safety suits like emergency braking, road departure mitigation, even adaptive cruise, and more. It comes standard on all the trims of Acura ILX.

Safety Features

• Advanced Front and Side Airbags
• Side Curtain Airbags
• LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)
• Rear Cross Traffic Monitor
• Lane Keeping Assist System(LKAS)
• Multi-View Rear Camera
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Road Departure Mitigation(RDM) System 
• Collision Mitigation Braking System(CMBS)

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2020 Acura ILX Sedan Reliability, JD Power Report, Recalls, and Warranty

Acura ILX vs Kia Optima

The Acura ILX produces 201 horsepower compared to 180 hp in Kia Optima while both of them have similar capacity powertrain. The 8-speed automatic transmission of the ILX is faster than the seven-speed automatic of Kia Optima. The ILX is 8.9 inches smaller than the Optima, making it more comfortable to handle in tight spaces. Passengers in the front and back seat will be able to spread out a lot further in the Kia Optima than the Acura ILX, due to its added head- and legroom.

With its flat torque below 4000 rpm, the Optima proves to be better in traffic. The basic warranty of the Acura ILX is not as comprehensive as that of the Kia Optima. An individual test conducted by NHTSA also says that the Acura ILX is safer than the Kia Optima. J D power long term report also shows that  Mazda vehicles are more reliable than Acura's.

Acura ILX vs Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 uses a smaller displacement powertrain when compared to the ILX, still, it can math the Acura in terms of performance. The ILX grants an automatic transmission as a standard while the Mazda3 highlights a manual transmission as an option for enthusiasts. Mazda also offers an all-wheel-drive for better traction in bad weather conditions, especially in ice and snow. The ILX doesn’t offer all-wheel drive events an option.

Also, Read: Why the Mazda 3 hatchback is better than the ILX?

Mazda 3's wheelbase is also 2.0 inches longer than the ILX which makes up for a much smoother ride and the Mazda 3’s turning circle is 2 feet shorter than the ILX’s which is good for parking in tight spots. Mazda3 has a roomier cargo area and with its greater rear head-room, backseat passengers will be able to stretch out a lot more than in Acura ILX.

Acura ILX vs Ford Fusion

One of the prime reasons to choose the Fusion is that it comes with optional all-wheel-drive system which is not available in the Acura ILX. It presents us with a flawless blend of luxury and driving dynamics which the ILX has been pursuing for a long time. Both powertrains available with the Fusion is also more powerful than the standalone engine option of the Acura ILX.

The simplistic yet chic inside is better than the ILX. It has more passenger and cargo room, The Fusion(102) has 13.5 cubic feet more passenger volume than the ILX (89.3). The Ford Fusion will be a ideal among taller drivers due to its bigger front head- and legroom than the Acura ILX.

It's easy to agree with the Acura ILX's fundamental appeal, a slew of desirable and high-tech features at an excellent price. The Acura continues to be a charming car to sit in and drive, plus it attains the brand's fame for loyalty and care-free ownership. However, despite a redesign 2019, the ILX is starting to its age under the skin. Yet, the 2020 Acura ILX is a well-built and attractively priced option to more upscale subcompact rivals.

Also, Read 

2020 Acura ILX VS 2020 Acura TLX: what is right for you?

Why the 2019 Acura ILX is better than 2020 Acura ILX?

2020 Acura ILX Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I get the 2020 Acura ILX with all-wheel drive?

Acura ILX offers front-wheel-drive as standard and there is no option of all-wheel drive.

Is the Acura RLX reliable?

The Acura is a sister company of Honda, so you can rest assured about the reliability factor.

Does Acura ILX have a manual transmission?

The 2020 Acura ILX comes with 2.4-liter inline-four dishing out 201 hp and comes mated to an 8 -speed automatic as standard. There is no option for manual transmission.

What is new in 2020 Acura ILX?

The Acura ILX remains unchanged for 2020.