• 2013 Acura ILX

• Used Acura ILX
• Repairs Acura ILX

Scorecard

Overall:	2013 Acura ILX U.S. News Best Cars 7.4
Critics' Rating:	6.9
Performance:	7.2
Interior:	7.1
Safety:	9.4
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Notable for 2013

• All-new model

Pros & Cons

• Quality interior
• Abundance of standard features
• Available 2.4-liter engine with impressive power

• No automatic transmission with 2.4-liter engine

The 2013 Acura ILX ranks 10 out of 11 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 13 published reviews and test drives of the Acura ILX, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Acura ILX is loaded with standard features and offers several engine choices. Still, reviewers think the all-new compact sedan blends into the crowd because competitors have better performance, gas mileage and cargo space.

The new 2013 Acura ILX is the smallest sedan in Acura’s lineup. Test drivers say that the base engine is solid for everyday driving, but recommend the more powerful four-cylinder engine that’s paired to a manual transmission for shoppers who prioritize performance. If green driving is important to you, the hybrid model trades power for fuel economy.

Regardless of the powertrain you select, there’s no need to upgrade to a higher trim for features like Bluetooth, a USB port and voice text messaging because all of these are standard on the ILX. Though it’s well-stocked, the ILX doesn’t have the most cabin space. The rear seats will be tight for tall passengers, but this is common among compact cars. The ILX’s trunk space is respectable, but other sedans in the class have more cargo room.

Overall, reviewers say the 2013 Acura ILX has good performance and a lot of standard features, but they think the ILX still manages to blend in among its rivals. Several critics say that competitors are better choices because they match or surpass the ILX’s cargo space, performance or fuel economy ratings, all for about the same price. But if you choose the ILX, they say the ILX’s posh persona and impressive tech features won’t disappoint.

Other Cars to Consider

The Audi A3 is more expensive than the ILX, but it has a high-quality interior and an abundance of cargo space. The A3 is available with a diesel engine that gives it some of the highest fuel economy ratings in the class. With the diesel engine, the A3 isn’t as fast as the base model, which has a gasoline engine, but it is a good choice if you like the ILX Hybrid’s fuel economy ratings but want a small car with more power. 

Test drivers agree that the Buick Verano prioritizes comfort. They found that the Verano’s quality materials, high-tech features, comfortable seats and hushed cabin make it one of the most refined cars in its class. If you want a smooth-riding sedan with comfortable front seats and impressive trunk space, auto critics say the Verano should be a good fit for you.

Acura ILX: The Details  

The 2013 Acura ILX is an all-new compact car. There are six models available: a base five-speed automatic, five-speed auto with premium package, five-speed auto with technology package, six-speed manual with premium package, Hybrid and Hybrid with technology package.

See the full list of 2013 Acura ILX specs »

• "The ILX would be best for a driver who doesn't need to consistently haul people, but would work for families seeking an entry-level luxury sedan." -- AutoWeek
• "ILX bridges a gap of sorts between regular compact cars and the current crop of premium compacts. … Those who put more weight on a premium nameplate, electronic gadgets, and high-end appointments than they do on performance or absolute value for the money may find the ILX a worthy addition to their shopping list." -- Consumer Guide
• "Overall: The 2.4-liter is tons of fun; base 2-liter and the hybrid are unimpressive, at best." -- USA Today
• "If you're in the market for an entry-level vehicle from a premium automaker, by all means have a look at the ILX... just be sure to check out its competition before signing on the dotted line. As much as we'd like to tell you that the ILX heralds a return to Acura's roots - innovation, value and technology - we can't, because it simply doesn't." -- Autoblog