2022 Acura ILX Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Drivers who desire a budget-priced luxury sedan should consider the 2022 Acura ILX. Although the ILX is among the oldest models in the compact class, it still brings some impressive qualities to the table. Not only is the ILX stylish, but it also packs just enough performance to keep drivers interested. Let’s take a closer look at the key reasons why you should consider getting a new ILX

What’s New for 2022?

Nothing has changed for the 2022 model year. The Acura ILX offers the same performance and available features as before.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Acura ILX – The Pros

1. Affordable With a Good Warranty

Some of today’s premier luxury cars cost a small fortune. Luckily, that’s not the case for the 2022 Acura ILX. It’s among the least expensive luxury models in America. Prices start at less than $27,000, which is great news for car shoppers seeking affordability. Most competitors have a starting MSRP that’s at least $5,000 higher. ILX buyers will also receive a good warranty. Acura’s powertrain warranty provides up to 70,000 miles of coverage.

2. Perky and Efficient Powertrain

Every new ILX features the same powertrain. Fortunately, it proves to be a good one. Powering this compact luxury sedan is a Honda-built four-cylinder engine, which churns out a respectable 201 horsepower. Acura’s dual-clutch automatic transmission is a great match for the engine. Acceleration is stronger than some people may think. When tested, the ILX recorded a spirited 0-60 mph time of 6.2 seconds. Meanwhile, fuel economy stands at a solid 24 mpg town/34 mpg freeway on premium gas.

3. Surprisingly Engaging to Drive

Although the 2022 Acura ILX is not a high-performance sedan, it still manages to offer a nice driving experience. Many test drivers praise the ILX for its secure road handling. The car’s sporty suspension gives it an agile feel around corners. Drivers can enjoy good handling without having to endure a harsh ride. This sedan also produces a sporty engine note at higher revs. When parking in confined areas, owners will greatly appreciate the ILX’s right turning radius.

4. Reliable and Affordable to Service

Over the years, the Acura ILX has proven itself to be one of the most dependable luxury cars. When serviced at the recommended intervals, owners can easily top the 200,000-mile mark with no major mechanical issues. All the key components are built to offer great durability. In fact, mechanics give the ILX a 4.5 out of 5.0 rating in long-term reliability. Furthermore, the cost to maintain this sedan is not expensive.

5. Impressive Interior Comfort

The 2022 Acura ILX is a car that you’ll look forward to driving on a daily basis. Despite being a compact model, this sedan offers an admirable amount of front legroom. An eight-way power driver’s seat comes standard, which provides an impressive degree of support and cushioning. When the weather is cold outside, passengers will also appreciate the ILX’s standard heated seats. Acura’s GPS-linked climate control is on the list of options, which can automatically adjust the cabin’s temperature.

6. Still Has a Stylish Look

Although the ILX is older than most of its competitors, it still has a stylish look. Acura’s signature Jewel Eye LED headlights help the car’s front fascia to maintain a modern profile. Premium paint colors, such as Performance Red Pearl and Majestic Black Pearl, enable the ILX to attract more attention. Drivers seeking a more powerful look will be interested in the A-Spec package. It adds unique wheels, a blacked-out mesh grille, and a black rear spoiler.

7. Optional Premium Package

The 2022 Acura ILX comes loaded with some highly desirable amenities, including dual-zone automatic climate control and a power sunroof. However, Acura’s optional Premium is a great investment. This recommended option only increases the car’s total cost by $2,000. With the Premium package comes a much better infotainment system. It features a touch display that provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. Perforated leather sport seats, blind-spot monitoring, and an upgraded stereo are also included in the package.

8. Popular Safety Technologies Come Standard

ILX buyers won’t have to pay extra for AcuraWatch, which is a bundle of advanced safety features. It comes standard throughout the ILX lineup. If the driver fails to react to a potential crash, the car’s Collision Mitigation Braking System will intervene. By helping drivers to maintain a safe following distance, adaptive cruise control makes highway driving less nerve-racking. Standard lane-keep assist and Road Departure Mitigation also help ensure a safe trip.

9. ELS Studio Premium Sound System Rocks

The 2022 Acura ILX gives buyers three stereo systems to choose from. Music fans who demand the best sound will want the range-topping ELS Studio premium stereo system. It features all the latest audio technologies, including surround sound and noise cancellation. Drivers can pump up the volume without worrying about ruining the system’s clarity. To ensure strong bass, engineers installed a rear-mounted subwoofer.

10. Navigation With Real-Time Traffic Updates

A modern navigation system comes with the ILX’s optional Technology Package. It will benefit drivers who plan to regularly venture out of town. The system’s real-time traffic updates also help you to avoid congestion. By having access to an alternative route to their destination, drivers can avoid sitting in a traffic jam for long periods.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Acura ILX – The Cons

1. Packs Less Performance Than the Competition

In terms of overall performance, the 2022 Acura ILX is a notch below the competition. It is not nearly as powerful as the BMW 3 Series, which clocks a quicker 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds. While the ILX handles well, drivers should not expect it to be as athletic as a serious sports sedan. Acura does not offer the ILX with a high-performance suspension or a limited-slip differential.

2. All-Wheel-Drive Traction is Not Available

Every new ILX comes standard with a front-wheel-drive system. While this sedan performs well in rainy weather, snowy road conditions will be a bit more problematic. All-wheel drive is not on the ILX’s list of options. Folks who reside in a region that experiences heavy snow may need to search for an alternative.

3. Could Use More Rear Legroom

Smaller adults will find the ILX’s backseat to be perfectly suitable. On the other hand, taller folks will need more legroom. Because of the ILX’s narrow backseat, it’s especially difficult for three people to fit in the rear. Families who demand more space should consider upgrading to a midsize sedan.

4. Cooled Seats Are Not Offered

Cooled seats are not available for the 2022 Acura ILX. During a summer heatwave, travelers would appreciate the enhanced comfort.

5. Standard Infotainment Comes Up Short

Unlike its key rivals, the Acura ILX comes standard with a rather basic infotainment system. Not only is the interface’s 5.0-inch screen small, but its graphics are also dated. Smartphone integration is not offered, thus preventing access to mobile apps To get a more modern unit, buyers must opt for the previously mentioned Premium Package.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Acura ILX vs 2022 Acura TLX

Some car shoppers will be deciding between the Acura ILX and the Acura TLX. Drivers who crave more performance and additional passenger space will lean more towards the midsize TLX. However, there’s no overlooking the ILX’s more attractive price tag. It’s about $11,000 less expensive than the TLX. While these two models have the same warranty, maintenance costs for the ILX are lower.

2022 Acura ILX vs 2022 BMW 3 Series

Car reviewers rave about the performance capabilities of the BMW 3 Series. It also has a very luxurious interior. On the downside, prices for the 3 Series are steeper. Folks who decide to buy a new 3 Series can anticipate shelling out an extra $15,000. BMW also charges extra for heated front seats and dual-zone automatic temperature control. A 70,000-mile powertrain warranty gives the ILX another edge over its European competitor. BMW covers the 3 Series with a 50,000 powertrain warranty.

2022 Acura ILX vs 2022 Mazda3

The 2022 Mazda3 is a good match for the Acura ILX. An optional turbo engine with 250 horsepower gives the Mazda3 a serious punch. However, more creature comforts come standard on the new ILX. ILX buyers will also receive a longer warranty. Another perk is the ILX’s higher resale value.

Conclusion

The 2022 Acura ILX remains a solid pick for anyone who wants an entry-level luxury sedan that doesn’t break the bank. Although the ILX is an aging model, it still has some endearing qualities. A perky powertrain and spry handling make this car entertaining to drive. While the ILX does have a poor standard infotainment system, opting for Acura’s Premium Package will solve the problem.

Before buying a new Acura ILX, car shoppers should be aware of its downfalls. The absence of an optional AWD system hurts the sedan’s performance in the snow. Some people will also need more rear legroom. Furthermore, Acura fans who desire a more aggressive driving machine will be happier with the new Acura TLX.