Best Car Reviews - 2018 Acura ILX

Introduction

The 2018 Acura ILX is a standout in the compact car segment, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and affordability. Released in 2018, this model has been designed to cater to young professionals and small families seeking a premium driving experience without the hefty price tag usually associated with luxury brands. What sets this model apart is its sleek design, premium interior materials, and advanced technology features.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2018 Acura ILX boasts a distinctive and refined design, setting it apart from its competitors. Its compact size makes it ideal for urban environments, yet it provides ample space for comfort.

Bold Front Grille with an eye-catching Acura emblem.
Jewel Eye LED Headlights, offering better visibility and enhanced aesthetics.
Smooth, aerodynamic lines contribute to fuel efficiency and driving dynamics.
Available in a variety of colors to suit different tastes.

The exterior improvements from previous models make the ILX a strong contender in its class.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the 2018 Acura ILX, you'll find a well-organized cabin that emphasizes luxury and comfort. The cabin's layout is both intuitive and driver-focused, crafted with high-quality materials.

Leatherette-trimmed seats for increased comfort and style.
Dual-zone automatic climate control, ensuring optimal comfort for all passengers.
Heated front seats, perfect for colder months.
Premium audio system, providing a superior listening experience.

The Acura ILX creates a serene driving environment, with minimal road noise and a focus on passenger comfort.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2018 Acura ILX is powered by a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an automatic (AM-S8) transmission. This combination delivers a spirited driving experience with impressive precision and agility.

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 6.5 seconds.
Fuel consumption of about 10.26 l/100 km, making it relatively efficient for its class.
Front-Wheel Drive ensures stability and control, especially in urban settings.

The ILX performs well both in the city, effortlessly navigating traffic, and on the highway, where it maintains a smooth and quiet ride.

Technology and Connectivity

2018 Acura ILX is equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology and connectivity features, providing entertainment and convenience on the road.

7-inch infotainment display with intuitive controls.
Supports Bluetooth connectivity for seamless integration of smartphones.
Available navigation system, ensuring you never lose your way.
Premium sound system for an enhanced auditory experience.

Advanced connectivity options make the ILX a tech-savvy choice for today's drivers.

Safety Features

Safety has been a focal point in the design of the 2018 Acura ILX. It includes both standard and advanced safety features.

Multi-angle rearview camera, enhancing parking and reversing safety.
Adaptive cruise control, for maintaining safe distances on highways.
Lane keeping assist, which helps prevent unintentional lane departures.
Received good ratings in crash tests from leading agencies.

The Acura ILX offers peace of mind with its comprehensive safety suite.

Pricing and Variants

The 2018 Acura ILX offers a competitive base price starting at approximately $28,100 USD, depending on the trim and optional features selected. Compared to its competitors, it provides a cost-effective entry into the luxury compact car market, while offering comparable features and amenities.

Pros and Cons

Pros

High-quality interior materials, creating a luxury feel.
Good fuel efficiency for a luxury compact car.
Responsive handling that makes driving engaging and fun.
Comprehensive safety features, ensuring peace of mind.
Value for money given its features and brand reputation.

Cons

Lack of rear-seat legroom, compared to some rivals.
Limited cargo space, challenging for larger loads.
Standard infotainment system lacks some advanced features.
Premium gasoline requirement, increasing running costs.
Limited engine options, offering less choice for performance enthusiasts.

Maintenance and Common Issues

The annual maintenance cost for the 2018 Acura ILX is relatively manageable, typically around $500 to $700 USD. Common issues reported by owners include:

Infotainment system glitches causing occasional freezes.
Transmission shudders during gear shifts in some cases.
Rare electronic failures in dashboard components.
Paint quality concerns, such as chipping and fading.
Brake noise issues requiring routine checks and maintenance.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8/10
- Design: 9/10
- Comfort: 8/10
- Performance: 8/10
- Technology: 7/10
- Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The ILX provides great driving dynamics for city commutes."
"I appreciate the comprehensive safety features, but I wish it had more rear legroom."
"The infotainment system could be better; it's a bit outdated."
"This car offers good value for money, considering the luxury badge."
"Fuel efficiency is decent, though the premium gas requirement is a downside."

Common praises focus on handling and safety, while criticisms often involve infotainment and space concerns.

Best cars in this category

2018 Audi A3
2018 BMW 2 Series
2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
2018 Lexus IS
2018 Volvo S60

Summary

The 2018 Acura ILX is best suited for young professionals and small families looking for a luxurious yet affordable compact car. With its elegant design, advanced safety features, and solid performance, it offers excellent value within its segment. While it has its drawbacks, such as limited space and outdated infotainment, its strengths make it a worthwhile consideration for those seeking a high-quality driving experience.