Best Car Reviews - 2013 Acura ILX

Introduction

The 2013 Acura ILX marks Acura’s foray into the compact luxury segment, appealing primarily to young professionals and urban dwellers seeking a blend of luxury and functionality. Released in 2013, this model was designed to capture the attention of those who desire a prestigious brand without a hefty price tag. What makes the 2013 ILX stand out is its strong emphasis on comfort, exterior elegance, and advanced technology, all packaged in a neat compact size. The ILX aimed to provide an entry-level luxury option with Acura's renowned reliability.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2013 Acura ILX boasts a stylish and sophisticated design that captures attention on the road. It retains a modern aesthetic with clean lines and a streamlined silhouette. The ILX is sized to fit perfectly into urban settings without compromising on presence.

Bold front grille with Acura emblem
Sleek halogen headlights, providing a sharp look and enhanced visibility
17-inch alloy wheels adding to its upscale appeal
Sunroof, bonus for enjoying sunny days
Aerodynamically designed body for improved fuel efficiency

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the 2013 Acura ILX is a testament to Acura’s commitment to providing luxury and comfort. The cabin is well-appointed with high-quality materials and offers a range of features that enhance the driving experience.

Leatherette-trimmed seating, offering both comfort and durability
Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort
Heated front seats that provide warmth in colder months
Spacious rear seats with ample legroom for passengers
Sound-deadening materials ensuring a quiet ride

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2013 Acura ILX is powered by a four-cylinder engine that sips on premium gasoline. Despite its compact engine size, the ILX demonstrates a spirited performance.

Engine: 2.0-liter i-VTEC
150 horsepower, providing adequate acceleration
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8.6 seconds
Automatic (S5) transmission that offers smooth gear shifts
Fuel consumption averages around 11.0 l/100 km, which is reasonable for a vehicle in its class

For those driving in busy urban environments, the ILX provides a responsive driving experience with a smooth ride on highways and stable handling around turns.

Technology and Connectivity

The 2013 Acura ILX is equipped with an array of technological enhancements aimed at making each drive enjoyable and connected.

5-inch infotainment display, clear and user-friendly
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming
Available premium audio system with superior sound quality
USB port for charging and media connection
Keyless entry and push-button start for convenience

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Acura, and the 2013 ILX reflects this commitment with both standard and optional safety features.

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control
Front and side airbags for driver and passenger protection
Rear-view camera for improved parking ease
Top safety ratings from various crash tests, underscoring its reliability

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2013 Acura ILX starts at approximately $26,000 USD. It is available in multiple trims, offering flexibility for buyers to select features that best meet their needs.

Base variant offers essential features
Premium package adds more comfort and luxury
Technology package includes advanced tech features

When compared to competitors like the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series, the ILX stands as a more affordable luxury option without skimping on quality.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Stylish design that stands out
Comfortable and quiet ride
Ample technology features
Competitive pricing in its class
Reputation for reliability

Cons

Limited power compared to some competitors
Fewer luxury touches than higher-end competitors
Requires premium gasoline
Basic infotainment screen, smaller by today's standards
No all-wheel-drive option

Maintenance and Common Issues

The maintenance cost for the 2013 Acura ILX is typically affordable, but as with any vehicle, there are common issues that have been reported.

Alternator replacement required around the 100,000-mile mark
Suspension noise at higher mileages
Door lock actuator failures in older models
Brake wear and tear faster than expected
Minor electronics glitches

Rating

Overall Rating: 7.8 out of 10

Design: 8
Comfort: 8
Performance: 7
Technology: 7
Safety: 8

User Reviews and Feedback

"The Acura ILX is my go-to for city driving. I love the comfort and how easy it is to maneuver."
"Decent performance, but I wish it had a bit more power on the highway."
"Luxury features for a great price, especially for a brand like Acura."
"Had a few minor electronic issues, but nothing too serious."
"Fuel efficiency is okay, just make sure to use premium to avoid problems."

Best cars in this category

2013 Audi A3
2013 BMW 1 Series
2013 Lexus CT 200h
2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
2013 Volvo S40

Summary

The 2013 Acura ILX is particularly well-suited for those seeking an affordable entry into the luxury car market. With its sophisticated styling and blend of technology and comfort, it provides excellent value without compromising on reliability. While it may not be the most powerful in its class, the ILX excels in delivering a practical and enjoyable driving experience, making it a compelling choice for city dwellers and young professionals alike.