When pitted against other compact cars like the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, Volvo S40, and Audi A3, the Acura ILX holds its own rather nicely. It's an affordable sedan that wears an attractive design. Even with some kinks, the 2022 Acura ILX contains some jaw-dropping features.
Having been in production since 2012, the ILX has racked up a decent sales record. It sold 12,250 units in the United States market in the first year. In Canada, buyers got 2,260 units of the ILX. The ILX’s design (hybrid and non-hybrid variants) is based on the ninth-generation Honda Civic, and it holds the title for being Acura’s pioneer gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle.
For this feature article, we'll highlight the 2022 Acura ILX’s handsome features. Despite being a premium luxury sedan, it has a friendly starting price.
How Far Has Acura Come With The ILX Model?
The popular Japanese automaker, Honda, announced a new luxury and performance wing called Acura in 1986. Acura's main responsibility is the constant release of luxury and performance vehicles, ranging from sedans to sports utility vehicles (SUVs). For its early years, it had an impressive outing in sales, slugging it out with household names like the German duo of BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
Notably, the ILX debuted in the year 2012. Acura chose the North American International Auto Show, an event renowned for attracting the automotive industry's big names for the unveiling. However, the brand only revealed the prototype of the ILX at that auto show.
Acura would later launch the finished version of the ILX also in the same year. This time, the company picked the 2012 Chicago Auto Show for the launch. Although the ILX adopted some of Acura’s latest tech, one that stood out is “aero-fused dynamics.'' Upon release, the ILX supplanted the Acura CSX, a model available only in the Canadian market.
For the ILX’s body style, 59% top-level-strength steel is utilized, while the hood and front bumper beam rely on aluminum. Despite being inspired by its cousin, the Honda Civic, the engineers installed an Acura-only system known as “Amplitude Reactive” dampers. To enhance handling and driver experience, a big steering shaft is standard on the ILX.
The Premium and Technology trims get the better part of the ILX’s features. These features comprise leather upholstery, a reliable navigation system, an excellent audio system plus a SiriusXM satellite radio for the interior. On the exterior, you'll find high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The Two Times That The ILX Got A Facelift
In 2014, Acura disclosed a newly improved ILX that would sell as a 2016 model. The brand made this known during the Los Angeles Auto Show. Part of its new features includes a direct injection 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Word got out about the second facelift in 2018. This edition exhibited Acura’s latest design concept, a new grille called “Diamond Pentagon”, 18-inch wheels, and leather seats; available in either red or black. The edition sold for a starting price of $25,900, a great deal back then.
The 2022 Acura ILX’s Engine
The 2022 Acura ILX operates a single powertrain that comprises a modest 201-hp four-cylinder engine. Just like previous editions, the 2022 ILX pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission for a smooth drive.
You shouldn't worry about the handling, as it's decent enough for a subcompact executive car. Meanwhile, the brake system is in a terrific shape.
Interior Design Of The 2022 Acura ILX
What the new ILX doesn't lack is ample space for the driver and front-seat passenger. However, the story is different for back-seat passengers because of the limited space. Some nice cabin features on the model include a sunroof, a warm sports seat plus power adjustments, and a dual-zone automatic climate control.
Extra interior features include adaptive cruise control, electric power steering, front door pockets, keyless ignition, rearview camera, universal remote transmitter, and so on. Don't expect a modern-day dashboard layout, as Acura fails to update this design for the 2022 ILX.
Its interior storage is pleasant, but it doesn't measure up to the storage capabilities of its inspiration, the Honda Civic. Also, the 2022 Acura ILX comes with a giant trunk, a feature that questions the model’s “subcompact” tag.
The 2022 Acura ILX’s Infotainment System
Every trim except the base trim comes with a standard 8.0-inch touchscreen display, plus Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. Additional features include one subwoofer, 10 speakers, 3 months' worth of satellite radio, USB connection, speed-sensitive volume control, AM/FM stereo, and so on.
You can operate the screen using knobs and switches, but then the infotainment system doesn't have any new additions. Unlike its competitors, the 2022 ILX’s base trim lacks a touchscreen display.
Safety Features Of The 2022 Acura ILX
Below are the main safety features for the ILX model.
- Forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking.
- Lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist.
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Note that the last set of key features are available for additional fees.
How Much Does The New ILX Cost?
The ILX is available in four trims, and these are the Base ($28,345), Premium ($29,545), Premium A-Spec ($31,545), and Technology A-Spec ($33,445) trims. Despite its design and technology flaws, the amazing 2022 Acura ILX remains an affordable option for luxury sedan lovers.