Best Car Reviews - 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid

Introduction

The 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid was a notable entry into the compact luxury car segment, marking Acura's venture into the hybrid realm. Released in 2013, this model was designed with the environmentally-conscious urban professional in mind, aiming to offer an appealing mix of luxury, compact convenience, and fuel efficiency. What makes the ILX Hybrid stand out is its efficient hybrid system combined with the luxury and performance typically associated with the Acura brand.

Design and Exterior Features

The design of the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid emphasizes a sleek and sophisticated look. This compact car offers a streamlined shape with a sporty profile that hints at its performance capabilities. The car measures approximately 181 inches in length, providing a balanced aesthetic and practical size for city maneuverability.

Key design elements include:

Aerodynamically styled front fascia with the iconic Acura grille.
Distinctive Jewel Eye LED headlights, enhancing visibility and providing a modern look.
Aluminum alloy wheels for a touch of elegance and improved performance.
Available in a range of luxurious color options.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the Acura ILX Hybrid, you'll find a cabin that's remarkably well-appointed for its class. The layout is both intuitive and inviting, with high-quality materials used throughout. The seats are upholstered in premium leather, offering both comfort and durability.

Luxury and convenience features include:

Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort.
Heated front seats for additional comfort in colder climates.
A power moonroof, adding an airy feel to the interior.
Ample trunk space, despite being a hybrid, for practicality.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid is powered by a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine paired with an Integrated Motor Assist electric motor, running on premium gasoline. This setup offers a smooth acceleration, with the 0-100 km/h time clocking in at approximately 10 seconds.

Driving Performance:

City driving: Provides a smooth and quiet ride, thanks to the hybrid powertrain.
Highway driving: Stable and comfortable at higher speeds, with efficient fuel consumption.
Handling: The front-wheel-drive configuration offers predictable handling, especially around urban turns.

With a fuel consumption rating of approximately 5.4 l/100km, the ILX Hybrid is highly fuel-efficient, ideal for both city and highway use.

Technology and Connectivity

Technology in the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid is geared towards both entertainment and safety. It includes an advanced infotainment system that enhances the driving experience.

Technology highlights:

A 9.7-inch touchscreen display that serves as the command center.
Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity for hands-free calls and streaming.
USB and auxiliary input ports for versatile connectivity.
Steering wheel-mounted controls for convenience.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the Acura ILX Hybrid does not disappoint. It offers a suite of both standard and advanced features designed to protect its occupants.

Safety features include:

Advanced Front Airbags, Side Airbags, and Side Curtain Airbags.
Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for optimal stopping power.
Excellent crash test ratings, ensuring peace of mind for safety-conscious buyers.

Pricing and Variants

The 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid starts at a base price of approximately $28,900 USD, which is competitive within the compact luxury hybrid market. It offers several trim levels to suit different needs and preferences, providing flexibility for potential buyers.

Compared to competitors like the Lexus CT 200h and the Audi A3, the ILX Hybrid offers a blend of luxury and efficiency that is hard to beat in its price range.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Excellent fuel efficiency.
Luxurious and comfortable interior.
Attractive and sleek exterior design.
Reliable safety features.
Affordable luxury hybrid option.

Cons

Moderate acceleration performance.
Limited rear-seat legroom.
Premium fuel requirement.
Few advanced driver assistance features compared to newer models.
Slightly higher maintenance costs for luxury components.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs are slightly above average for a compact car due to luxury brand parts.

Rating

Overall Rating: 8.2/10

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

User Reviews and Feedback

"A stylish and efficient ride, perfect for city driving."
"I love the fuel economy, but I wish it had more rear-seat space."
"Great handling, and the luxury features make it a pleasure to drive."
"The premium fuel requirement can be a bit of a hassle."
"I’ve had some minor issues with the infotainment system, but overall, I'm satisfied."

Common praises focus on fuel efficiency and design, while criticisms often mention the interior space and technology issues.

Best Cars in This Category

2013 Lexus CT 200h
2013 Audi A3 TDI
2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid
2013 Toyota Prius
2013 BMW 3 Series ActiveHybrid

Summary

The 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid is best suited for urban dwellers seeking a balance of luxury, efficiency, and affordability. It’s a valuable choice for those who prioritize fuel economy and brand prestige. However, those needing more advanced features or extensive rear passenger space might look elsewhere. Overall, the ILX Hybrid offers a compelling mix of economy and style, making it a strong contender in the compact luxury hybrid segment.