2018 Acura ILX Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

If you are looking for a small luxury sedan that can be obtained for less than $30,000, be sure to test drive the 2018 Acura ILX. While the base model is a sweet deal, the higher trim levels come loaded with a greater number of high-tech features. Certified as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, the new ILX continues to offer exceptional impact protection.

What’s New for 2018?

This year, Acura introduces a new Special Edition trim. The sedan’s powertrain and available features remain the same.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 Acura ILX – The Pros

1. High-Tech Engine

All trims come equipped with a quick-revving 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine. Acura tuned it to churn out a lively 201 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. You can expect to hit 60 mph in about 6.4 seconds. Although the 2018 Acura ILX is not the quickest car in the segment, it does feel quite engaging to drive.

2. Excellent Automatic Transmission

An eight-speed automatic transmission comes standard on the 2018 Acura ILX. According to numerous car reviewers, it ranks among the top transmissions in the class. It delivers a remarkably smooth performance in everyday driving situations. If you want to have more fun, activate the transmission’s Sport mode. You can also take advantage of the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

3. Thrifty Fuel Saver

While driving the new 2018 Acura ILX, you won’t have to worry about spending a fortune on fuel. You can anticipate getting an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and up to 35 mpg on the open road. The car’s fuel-efficient design will especially appeal to the drivers who commute to school or work. However, you will need to use premium unleaded gas for maximum performance.

4. Standout Reliability

Like its parent company Honda, Acura takes great pride in producing dependable automobiles. The new Acura ILX is a car that you can keep in your family for years to come. Even when traveling a long distance from home, this car’s high reliability rating will give you an extra peace of mind. You will also grow to appreciate the ILX’s inexpensive cost of maintenance.

5. Sharp-Looking A-Spec Appearance Package

The A-Spec appearance package is perfect for the drivers who desire a sportier look. The package’s 18-inch alloy wheels give the ILX a far more aggressive stance. Meanwhile, a trunk-mounted spoiler accentuates the sedan’s sleek profile. A few interior upgrades also come with the A-Space package. Racing pedals and red gauges help keep drivers inspired.

6. ILX’s Affordable Price Tag

Affordability gives the 2018 Acura ILX an edge over some of its competitors. You can expect to pay around $29,000 for the base version, which is only slightly more expensive than the average family sedan. Some of the standard features include a power driver’s seat, a multi-view backup camera, and a GPS-linked climate control system. The loaded Special Edition trim only costs an additional $800.

7. Quieter Ride Than Before

In the past, the ILX was criticized for its lack of sound-deadening materials. An active noise-cancellation system now comes standard on the new ILX. This feature certainly helps ensure a quieter ride. Even when traveling at highway speeds, wind noise is kept to a minimum. It also keeps harsh engine sounds from entering the cabin.

8. Comfortable Interior

Despite the ILX’s compact classification, it proves to be a very livable sedan. Most of your passengers will find the sedan’s backseat to be quite accommodating. The front seats are especially comfortable. A standard power driver’s seat enables you to obtain a perfect view of the road ahead. This is definitely a car that can handle a weekend road trip.

9. Available Premium Sound System

If you demand an inspiring music-listening experience, the available ELS Studio audio system will prove to be a worthy upgrade. It sounds noticeably better than the standard six-speaker system. An 8.0-inch subwoofer enables the system to produce ample bass. Not only can you easily connect your iPod, but you also have satellite and HD radio at your disposal.

10. Proven to be a Safe Automobile

The 2018 Acura ILX is a well-built compact sedan that will provide the necessary crash protection. Acura also offers plenty of helpful safety technologies. In the event that you fail to react to a stopped vehicle, the ILX’s forward collision system will automatically activate your brakes. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist are offered as well.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 Acura ILX – The Cons

1. Manual Gearbox No Longer Offered

Previous versions of the ILX could be equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. Unfortunately, Acura decided to do away with the stick-shift transmission. This could be a deal breaker for the drivers who like changing their own gears. While the automatic’s paddle shifters add a bit of excitement, they can’t match the fun factor of a traditional manual transmission.

2. Lack of Performance Upgrades

When shopping for a new 2018 Acura ILX, you will only have one engine choice. Furthermore, the ILX does not offer performance goodies like a sports-tuned suspension. While the ILX does feel poised on the road, many of its rivals deliver sharper handling.

3. Exterior Styling Becoming Dated

Most people consider the ILX to be a good-looking sedan. Nevertheless, its styling is due for an update. The current ILX’s styling is actually based off the previous-generation Honda Civic.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition:

Some of the ILX’s primary competitors include the 2018 Audi A3 and the 2018 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class. When it comes to pricing, the 2018 Acura ILX easily trumps its European counterparts. You can expect to save at least $4,000 by choosing the new ILX. Although the Audi A3 is fun to drive, the ILX’s base engine does pack more horsepower.

Conclusion:

The 2018 Acura ILX is certainly worth the money. It is a high-quality ride that proves to be a legitimate bang for the buck. Featuring a standard A-Spec appearance package and several premium features, the new Special Edition trim is bound to be a popular choice.

Previous Acura ILX Buying Guides:

• Why buy a 2016 Acura ILX? w/ pros vs cons