Best Car Reviews - 2013 Acura ILX

Introduction

The 2013 Acura ILX debuted as a competitive entry in the luxury compact car market, targeting young professionals and city dwellers looking for a balance of performance, style, and affordability. This model makes a bold statement by blending premium features with a more approachable price point. Notably, the ILX stands out for its elegant design, a commendable list of tech and safety features, and a surprisingly sporty manual transmission option—a rarity in its class.

Design and Exterior Features

The Acura ILX exhibits a sleek and sophisticated design that exudes an understated elegance. With its sculpted body lines and aerodynamic shape, the ILX presents a refined appearance.

The compact dimensions make it ideal for urban environments, offering easy maneuverability.
Bold front grille and jewel-eye headlights reflect Acura’s distinctive design language.
Alloy wheels and a smooth silhouette contribute to its sporty yet classy stance.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the 2013 Acura ILX strikes a balance between modernity and comfort. The cabin is thoughtfully designed, with high-quality materials that speak to Acura’s reputation for luxury.

The dashboard features soft-touch materials and intuitive controls.
Seats are upholstered in premium leather with available heating options.
Ample legroom and a spacious trunk are highlights for a compact class vehicle.
Dual-zone climate control and a sunroof enhance passenger comfort.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2013 ILX features a robust 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. This configuration delivers a spirited driving experience:

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 7.1 seconds, making it quick off the line.
Effortless handling during urban commutes and smooth highway cruising.
A precise steering system ensures agile cornering capabilities.
Fuel efficiency is rated at about 8.3 l/100 km, impressively economical for a premium vehicle.

Technology and Connectivity

Technology is a cornerstone of the ILX’s appeal, integrating connectivity seamlessly into its driving experience.

Equipped with an infotainment system featuring a 9.7-inch display.
Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity allows hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Optional ELS Premium Audio System for audiophiles.
Advanced connectivity includes USB ports and navigation assistance.

Safety Features

Acura ensures the ILX is as safe as it is stylish, with a comprehensive suite of safety features.

Standard features include ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags.
Advanced options such as a rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring.
Crash test ratings by leading agencies reflect high safety standards.

Pricing and Variants

The 2013 Acura ILX starts at a base price of around $25,900 USD, making it an attractive proposition against competitors like the Audi A3 or BMW 1 Series.

Several trims offer various luxury and performance enhancements.
Value proposition remains strong within the compact luxury category.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Stylish design that stands the test of time.
Manual transmission offers engaging driving dynamics.
Fuel efficient for a 4-cylinder engine.
Luxurious interior appointments.
Comprehensive safety package.

Cons

Limited rear seat space may not suit all passengers.
Base engine may feel underpowered compared to rivals.
Infotainment system considered dated by some users.
Limited all-wheel-drive availability.
Fewer high-performance options in its trim line.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs for the Acura ILX hover around $550, reflecting its status as a luxury vehicle. Common issues reported by owners include:

Premature brake wear.
Transmission noise, particularly in manual models.
Electrical system faults.
Problems with the infotainment screen.
Suspension issues affecting ride comfort.

Rating

Overall, the 2013 Acura ILX earns a commendable rating of 8/10:

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Technology: 7.5/10
Safety: 8.5/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"I love the manual transmission—it makes the drive so much more engaging." - Sarah from New York
"The interior quality is impressive for its price point." - Mike from Chicago
"Surprisingly fuel-efficient for daily commutes." - Emily from Los Angeles
"The tech could use an update, but connectivity works flawlessly." - John from Miami
"Limited rear space, but perfect for my city errands." - Hannah from San Francisco

Best Cars in this Category

2013 Audi A3
2013 BMW 1 Series
2013 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
2013 Volvo S60
2013 Lexus CT 200h

Summary

The 2013 Acura ILX is ideally suited for young professionals or anyone seeking a blend of luxury and practicality without breaking the bank. Its refined design, coupled with a host of valued features, makes it an attractive choice in the compact luxury segment. While not without its flaws, the ILX’s strengths provide compelling reasons to consider it, particularly for those who appreciate driving engagement and efficiency.