A Luxurious Bargain or a Disguised Reality?
Unmasking the 2022 Acura ILX
Upon the first glance, the 2022 Acura ILX presents itself as a tempting proposition in the realm of luxury sedans. Adorned with a premium exterior styling treatment and an enticing starting price, it appears to be a worthy contender. However, a closer inspection reveals that beneath the surface, this smallest member of the Acura sedan lineup is essentially a revamped version of the previous-generation Honda Civic, with a standard features list that may leave enthusiasts wanting more. The outdated infotainment system and a lack of sporty driving dynamics further dampen its allure. Despite sporting a fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and offering a smooth ride, the ILX falls short of the expectations set by its competitors. For those seeking to make a lasting impression, alternative options such as the Audi A3, BMW 2-series Gran Coupe, and Mercedes-Benz A-class might be worth the extra investment. Alternatively, the all-new 2022 Honda Civic stands out as a more compelling choice within the same price range.
What's on the Horizon for 2022?
Acura's Minimalist Approach
As the 2022 ILX makes its way into the new year, there are no notable changes to report. However, anticipation builds for an updated version based on the all-new Honda Civic, slated to debut in 2023.
Unlocking the Best Value: Packages and Performance
Navigating the ILX Landscape
The 2022 ILX stands as one of the most enticing deals among subcompact luxury sedans. Maximizing its value is facilitated through the optional Premium package, which introduces leather upholstery, enhanced infotainment features, and additional driver assists. While the A-Spec package may suggest heightened performance, it merely provides superficial improvements that may not justify the additional cost.
Powertrain Prowess and Driving Dynamics
Under the Hood
Powering the ILX is a 201-hp four-cylinder engine coupled with front-wheel drive, harmonized by a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine's easy revving nature, while not the fastest in its class, evokes nostalgia for the VTEC-powered Honda and Acura sedans of yesteryear. The ILX exhibits poised and confident handling, though not particularly memorable. However, road and wind noise become more noticeable, especially at highway speeds, setting it apart from rivals like the Audi A3 or Mercedes-Benz A-class. The brake-pedal feedback, on the other hand, stands out as excellent.
Efficient Mileage and Real-World Performance
Balancing Efficiency and Reality
The ILX impresses with its fuel-economy ratings of 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, putting it in line with front-wheel-drive versions of competitors such as the A3 and A-class. During our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, the ILX delivered precisely as promised: 34 mpg. For more detailed information, the EPA's website provides comprehensive insights into the ILX's fuel economy.
Interior Luxury, Comfort, and Cargo Space
Inside the Cabin
Typical of sedans in this segment, the Acura ILX offers ample space for the driver and front-seat passenger but falls short in rear-seat legroom. Standard features include a sunroof, heated sport seats with power adjustments for the driver, and dual-zone automatic climate control. However, the dashboard design appears outdated compared to the sleek screens featured in the A-class. While interior storage may not match the Civic's practicality, the ILX surprises with a spacious trunk, defying its subcompact classification.
Infotainment Evolution and Connectivity
The Tech Dilemma
Strikingly, a touchscreen infotainment system is not standard on the base model, with all other trims equipped with an 8.0-inch unit featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Acura's dual-screen setup, operable via physical knobs and buttons, falls short due to outdated graphics and a lack of intuitive menus when compared to its more modern counterparts.
Safety Assurance
The ILX boasts a range of standard driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert further enhance safety. For detailed crash-test results, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites offer comprehensive information.
Warranty Wisdom and Maintenance Matters
Acura's Assurance
While Acura provides the ILX with an excellent limited and powertrain warranty, it falls short of offering complimentary scheduled maintenance, a perk offered by some competitors.
- Limited warranty: Four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: Six years or 70,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
In conclusion, the 2022 Acura ILX presents a blend of luxury and performance at an attractive price point. Despite its shortcomings in certain areas, strategic choices such as the Premium package can elevate the overall driving experience. As the ILX looks forward to potential enhancements in 2023, it remains a compelling option for those seeking a balance of elegance and efficiency in the subcompact luxury sedan segment.
