Best Car Reviews - 2014 Acura ILX Hybrid

Introduction

The 2014 Acura ILX Hybrid is a sleek and sophisticated option for those looking to combine luxury with eco-friendly driving. Released in 2014, this compact car is aimed at young professionals and eco-conscious drivers seeking a blend of elegance, performance, and fuel efficiency. What sets this model apart is its unique position as a luxury hybrid compact car, offering premium features without compromising on environmental responsibility.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2014 ILX Hybrid boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design that perfectly fits into Acura’s modern esthetic. Its compact yet assertive shape is complemented by clean lines and a bold front grille. The design balances functionality with style, making it both eye-catching and practical.

Aerodynamic profile for improved efficiency
Distinctive Jewel Eye® LED headlights for enhanced visibility
Compact size making it perfect for urban driving
Sleek chrome touches adding an extra layer of luxury
17-inch alloy wheels for a sporty appearance

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the ILX Hybrid, and you are greeted with a cabin designed for comfort and elegance. Acura uses premium materials, ensuring a plush feel throughout. The layout is thoughtful, providing both the driver and passengers with an enjoyable experience.

High-quality leather seats for superior comfort
Ergonomic design of dashboard and controls
Spacious legroom in both front and rear seats
Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort
Noise reduction technology for a quieter ride

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2014 Acura ILX Hybrid features a 4-cylinder engine powered by Premium Gasoline, paired with an Automatic (AV-S7) transmission. This setup ensures a smooth and responsive drive, with an admirable acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 10 seconds.

The driving experience in urban environments is pleasant, with agile handling and a responsive steering system. On highways, it remains stable, and taking turns feels effortless, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. The ILX Hybrid is notably fuel-efficient, achieving an estimated consumption of 7.8 l/100 km.

Front-Wheel Drive for enhanced maneuverability
Eco Assist™ System to optimize fuel usage
Smooth and quiet engine performance
Stability Assist for better handling
Regenerative braking system to improve efficiency

Technology and Connectivity

The technology suite in the 2014 ILX Hybrid is impressive, catering to tech-savvy drivers who value connectivity and assistance.

7-inch touchscreen display for easy control
Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® for safe communication
USB/audio interface for device connectivity
Navigation system with 3D view (available in tech package)
Multi-view rear camera for improved safety while parking

Safety Features

Acura prioritizes safety, equipping the ILX Hybrid with a suite of features designed to protect and assist.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
Advanced airbag system including side and curtain airbags
Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with traction control
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Received high marks in NHSTA crash tests

Pricing and Variants

The 2014 Acura ILX Hybrid starts at a base price of around $28,000 USD, making it competitive in the luxury compact car segment. It’s offered in a single well-equipped trim, with various optional packages for personalization. When compared to competitors like the Lexus CT 200h and the Audi A3, the ILX Hybrid provides a compelling mix of luxury and efficiency at a reasonable price point.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain
Luxurious interior materials and comfort
Strong safety features with good ratings
Smooth handling and ride quality
Competitive pricing for a luxury compact

Cons

Limited power, resulting in modest acceleration
Single trim option might lack customization
Rear seat space might feel constrained for taller passengers
Infotainment system could be more intuitive
Hybrid system may require adaptation for new users

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance for the Acura ILX Hybrid is reasonably priced, in line with other compact luxury cars.

Issues with battery life in older models
Transmission lag reported by some users
Inconsistent fuel efficiency over time
Brake wear happening sooner than expected
Infotainment software glitches occasionally necessary for updates

Rating

Overall, the 2014 Acura ILX Hybrid receives a rating of 8.2 out of 10.

Design: 8/10
Comfort: 9/10
Performance: 7/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 9/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"I love how eco-friendly my Acura ILX Hybrid feels without sacrificing luxury!" - Emily R.
"It's a great city car; the design is timeless, and it handles beautifully." - Mark T.
"While the tech inside could be better, it's still a great ride for everyday driving." - Sarah L.
"Fuel efficiency is pretty good, but I expected a little more power from the hybrid." - John K.
"The comfort level is high, which makes those long drives enjoyable and relaxing." - Rachel P.

Best cars in this category

2014 Lexus CT 200h
2014 Audi A3
2014 BMW 3 Series ActiveHybrid
2014 Ford C-Max Hybrid
2014 Toyota Prius

Summary

The 2014 Acura ILX Hybrid is an excellent choice for those who prioritize efficiency and luxury in a compact package. It's best suited for urban professionals or small families who value comfort, safety, and a touch of elegance in their daily drives. With its competitive pricing and feature-rich offering, the ILX Hybrid presents a strong value proposition in the hybrid compact car market.