The Acura ILX, a compact luxury sedan, has been a popular choice for drivers seeking a blend of sporty performance, upscale features, and Acura reliability. However, like any vehicle, certain model years stand out as being more desirable than others. This guide will delve into the best and worst years of the Acura ILX, providing you with the expert knowledge needed to make an informed purchasing decision in 2024.
Acura ILX Model Year Overview
| Model Year | Key Features & Changes | Potential Issues & Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | First year of production, offered with 2.0L engine and 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual. | Early production gremlins, infotainment system dated, potential for transmission issues in automatic models. |
| 2014 | Minor cosmetic updates, improved sound insulation. | Same as 2013, but with fewer reports of early issues. |
| 2015 | No significant changes. | Carried over issues from previous years, still relatively dated. |
| 2016 | Major Refresh: New 2.4L engine with 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, updated styling, AcuraWatch safety features available. | Dual-clutch transmission can be jerky at low speeds, some reports of infotainment glitches. |
| 2017 | No significant changes. | Generally reliable, but dual-clutch transmission quirks remain. |
| 2018 | No significant changes. | Consistent reliability record, a solid choice. |
| 2019 | Facelift: Revised front and rear styling, updated infotainment system, AcuraWatch standard. | Infotainment system still not the most intuitive, some drivers dislike the new styling. |
| 2020 | No significant changes. | Reliable and well-equipped, a good value proposition. |
| 2021 | No significant changes. | One of the last model years, benefiting from continuous improvements. |
| 2022 | Final year of production. | Potentially higher demand and slightly inflated prices due to discontinuation. |
Detailed Explanations
2013: First Year of Production
The 2013 Acura ILX marked the entry-level luxury sedan's debut. It came with a 2.0-liter engine paired with either a 5-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission. While offering a taste of Acura's refinement, the 2013 model year is known for some early production issues and a somewhat dated infotainment system. Potential buyers should be mindful of possible transmission problems in the automatic variants.
2014: Minor Cosmetic Updates, Improved Sound Insulation
The 2014 ILX received subtle cosmetic tweaks and enhanced sound insulation, aiming to improve the overall driving experience. While the improvements were welcomed, the underlying mechanicals remained largely unchanged from the 2013 model. As a result, it shares similar potential issues but with fewer reported instances due to ongoing refinement.
2015: No Significant Changes
The 2015 Acura ILX was essentially a carryover model from the previous year. It offered the same engine and transmission options, along with similar features. Consequently, it inherits the same potential drawbacks and limitations as the 2013 and 2014 models, including a dated infotainment system and the possibility of transmission issues in the automatic versions.
2016: Major Refresh
The 2016 model year brought a significant overhaul to the Acura ILX. A new, more powerful 2.4-liter engine replaced the previous 2.0-liter unit. This engine was paired exclusively with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, enhancing performance and fuel efficiency. The 2016 ILX also received updated styling and offered AcuraWatch safety features, making it a much more modern and appealing option. However, the dual-clutch transmission can exhibit some jerkiness at low speeds, and there have been reports of infotainment system glitches.
2017: No Significant Changes
The 2017 Acura ILX continued with the improvements introduced in the 2016 model year. It offered the same 2.4-liter engine, 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, and available AcuraWatch safety features. While generally reliable, the dual-clutch transmission's quirks remained a characteristic of this model year.
2018: No Significant Changes
The 2018 Acura ILX maintained the same formula as the previous two years, offering a consistent and reliable driving experience. This model year is known for its solid reliability record, making it a dependable choice for buyers seeking a used Acura ILX.
2019: Facelift
The 2019 Acura ILX received a significant facelift, featuring revised front and rear styling, giving it a more modern and aggressive appearance. The infotainment system was also updated. AcuraWatch safety features became standard equipment, further enhancing the car's appeal. However, some drivers found the updated infotainment system less intuitive than previous versions, and opinions on the new styling were divided.
2020: No Significant Changes
The 2020 Acura ILX continued with the design and features introduced in the 2019 model year. It offered a reliable and well-equipped package, making it a good value proposition in the used car market.
2021: No Significant Changes
The 2021 Acura ILX was one of the final model years of the vehicle, benefiting from continuous improvements and refinements throughout its production run. It represents a solid choice for buyers seeking a dependable and well-equipped compact luxury sedan.
2022: Final Year of Production
The 2022 Acura ILX marked the end of the model's production run. As the final year, it may experience slightly higher demand and potentially inflated prices due to its discontinuation. However, it also benefits from all the improvements and refinements made throughout the ILX's lifespan.
Best Years for Acura ILX
The 2016-2022 Acura ILX models are generally considered the best years. The 2016 refresh brought a more powerful engine, a more modern transmission, updated styling, and available advanced safety features. The subsequent years (2017-2022) built upon this foundation, offering consistent reliability and incremental improvements. The 2019-2022 models, in particular, boast the updated styling and standard AcuraWatch features, making them highly desirable.
Why 2016-2022 are recommended:
- More Powerful Engine: The 2.4-liter engine offers significantly better performance than the earlier 2.0-liter engine.
- 8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission: Provides quicker and smoother shifts compared to the older 5-speed automatic.
- Updated Styling: The 2016 and 2019 facelifts gave the ILX a more modern and appealing appearance.
- AcuraWatch Safety Features: Offers advanced driver-assistance systems for enhanced safety.
- Improved Reliability: Later model years generally benefit from fewer issues and improved build quality.
Years to Avoid (or Approach with Caution)
The 2013-2015 Acura ILX models are generally considered less desirable due to their older engine, outdated styling, and potential reliability issues. While they may be more affordable, the trade-off in performance, features, and reliability may not be worth it for many buyers.
Why 2013-2015 are less recommended:
- Less Powerful Engine: The 2.0-liter engine is less powerful and less fuel-efficient than the later 2.4-liter engine.
- Outdated Styling: The pre-facelift styling looks dated compared to the 2016 and 2019 models.
- Potential Transmission Issues: The 5-speed automatic transmission in these models has been known to experience issues.
- Dated Infotainment System: The infotainment system in these models is less advanced and less user-friendly than later versions.
- Fewer Safety Features: These models lack the advanced safety features offered in later models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Acura ILX year is the most reliable?
The 2018-2021 model years are generally considered the most reliable, benefiting from continuous improvements and refinements throughout the ILX's production run. These years have fewer reported issues compared to earlier models.
Is the Acura ILX a good car for city driving?
Yes, the Acura ILX is a good car for city driving due to its compact size, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. The dual-clutch transmission in the 2016-2022 models, however, can be a bit jerky at low speeds.
What is AcuraWatch?
AcuraWatch is a suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking. It's standard on 2019-2022 models and available on some earlier models.
How does the Acura ILX compare to the Honda Civic?
The Acura ILX is based on the Honda Civic platform but offers more luxurious features, upgraded materials, and a more refined driving experience. The ILX is essentially a more premium version of the Civic.
Is the Acura ILX expensive to maintain?
The Acura ILX is generally not expensive to maintain, as it shares many parts with the Honda Civic, which is known for its reliability and affordable maintenance costs. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, will help keep the car running smoothly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Acura ILX model year can significantly impact your ownership experience. While the 2013-2015 models offer affordability, the 2016-2022 models, particularly the 2019-2022 versions, represent the best combination of performance, features, reliability, and styling. Thoroughly research any prospective purchase and consider a pre-purchase inspection to ensure you're getting a well-maintained vehicle.