What's New for 2020?
In the 2020 lineup, Acura maintains the status quo, refraining from significant changes following the refreshed version unveiled in 2019. The continuity in design and features reinforces the stability and reliability that the ILX brand embodies.
Unpacking Value with Premium and Technology Packages
The 2020 ILX emerges as a compelling choice among subcompact luxury sedans, especially when adorned with the optional Premium and Technology packages. These packages elevate the ILX's value proposition, introducing luxurious upgrades such as leather upholstery, advanced infotainment features, enhanced driver assists, and the impressive ELS audio system. While the A-Spec package hints at heightened performance, it primarily offers superficial enhancements that may not justify the additional cost.
Powertrain Dynamics: Unleashing 201 Horsepower
Under the hood, the ILX houses a robust 201-horsepower four-cylinder engine, coupled with front-wheel drive and a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. Although not the fastest in its class, the engine's responsiveness invites nostalgic sentiments for the VTEC-powered Honda and Acura sedans of yesteryears. The ILX's handling exudes poise and confidence, albeit lacking the memorability found in competitors like the Audi A3 or the Mercedes-Benz A-class. Road and wind noise, particularly at highway speeds, slightly infiltrate the cabin, but the brake-pedal feedback remains excellent.
Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Power and Economy
The ILX strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency, boasting competitive ratings of 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. These figures align favorably with non-all-wheel-drive versions of rivals like the A3 and A-class. During a 200-mile highway fuel-economy route, the ILX delivered precisely on its promise: an impressive 34 mpg.
Interior Comfort: A Spacious Haven with a Few Quirks
Inside the ILX, the front seats offer ample room for both the driver and the passenger, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. However, the rear seats may feel cramped for adult passengers. Standard features include a sunroof, heated sport seats with power adjustments for the driver, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Yet, the dashboard design appears somewhat outdated when compared to the sleek screens in the A-class. While interior storage is not as versatile as the Civic, the ILX compensates with a generously-sized trunk, aligning with its subcompact classification.
Infotainment and Connectivity: A Mixed Bag
Surprisingly, the base model does not come equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system. However, the Premium, Technology, and A-Spec models feature an 8.0-inch unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Acura's dual-screen setup, navigable through physical knobs and buttons, falls short due to outdated graphics and a lack of intuitive menus, trailing behind more modern rivals.
Safety First: Acura's Commitment to Security
The ILX boasts a five-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, it falls short of earning the coveted Top Safety Pick title from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The ILX incorporates standard driver-assistance technology, including forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. For added safety, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available as optional features.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage: Acura's Assurance
Acura provides solid warranty coverage for the ILX, encompassing a limited warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles and a powertrain warranty lasting 6 years or 70,000 miles. It's worth noting that Acura does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance, a feature present in some of its competitors.
In conclusion, the 2020 Acura ILX emerges as a well-built and attractively priced option within the subcompact luxury sedan category. While it may not entirely escape the shadows of its Civic lineage, the ILX carves its niche with a blend of reliability, performance, and luxurious features. As the automotive landscape evolves, the ILX remains a compelling choice for those seeking a balance between elegance and practicality in their driving experience.
