Review: 2014 Acura ILX Premium w/6-Speed Manual

“What are you driving this week, Andy?” inquired one of my co-workers.

“I’ve got the 2014 Acura ILX,” I said.

“ILX? So, what kind of car is it?” they asked.

“It’s a compact luxury sedan. Think of it as a Honda Civic in a tuxedo.”

I’ve reviewed the ILX in the past, but it was the 2.0-liter model with the automatic transmission. This combo felt somewhat underpowered and certainly wasn’t enthralling to drive. This 2.4 liter model with the magnificent six-speed manual is much more inspired. It’s more than just a Civic in a tuxedo. It’s a Civic in a tuxedo wearing running shoes drinking Red Bull.

In the Driveway: 2014 Acura ILX Premium

In the driveway this week is Acura's compact 2014 ILX Premium sedan. Powered by the same 2.4-liter engine that powers the scrappy Honda Civic Si as well as a precise six-speed manual, the ILX is a more comfortable overall package, albeit, not quite as sporty.

After my drive to work today, I noticed the ride is certainly smoother but the handling isn't quite as racy. Also, the ILX does not have the limited-slip differential like the Civic Si, so you'll have one wheel spinning through harder corners. It is, however, very well appointed inside, it has a great stereo, and that Crimson Garnet paint is gorgeous. I happen to think the ILX looks great and is more attractive than the it's Civic cousin.

More later; stay tuned.

Review: 2013 Acura ILX Tech: A compact approach to Honda's premium brand

There’s always been a bit of mixed reaction to premium compact cars in this country. Just the idea of a premium compact or subcompact may bring up visions of the woeful 1980s Cadillac Cimarron, which was basically a posh, expensive Chevrolet Cavalier. A few others have tried the formula; there was the Infiniti G20 and Acura’s own Integra as well as the Volvo S40. Audi still offers the A3, Lexus has the smallish ct 200h. You could probably lump the BMW 1 Series and even the MINI brand in there, too. Many of these cars have been gateways into premium or luxury brands. One of the best successes was the Integra, which was sold from 1986 through 2001. The Integra was, of course, replaced by the compact RSX coupe, which was sold until 2006. However, premium small cars have always been a tricky formula. Will buyers shell out extra cash for a leather-clad efficient premium small car? I’d say, other than the A3, MINI, and the Integra, most premium small cars have had lukewarm success here in the States.

Acura, Honda’s premium brand, hasn’t had an entry-level car in the U.S. since the RSX. For 2013, Acura is going to give it another go with the new ILX.

In the driveway: 2013 Acura ILX 2.0

In the driveway this week, despite the photo of the car in this parking lot, is the 2013 Acura ILX. The ILX comes in three distinct flavors: 2.0 with the five-speed auto, the 2.4-liter with the six-speed manual, and Hybrid. This is the 2.0-liter version with automatic and the Technology Package.

Based on the Honda Civic, the ILX is well appointed inside and out. I happen to think it looks more attractive than a 2012 Civic inside and out, too (no offense, Scotty). The 2.0-liter engine makes 150 horsepower and feels adequate, but not much more. It is a smooth engine, especially for a four-pot, and shifts are velvety smooth. This puppy runs just a tick over $30,000 as shown, and it's decked out with all the tech goodies you see here plus HIDs, leather, moonroof, etc.

I can't help but think, will this cannibalize four-cylinder TSX sales? Also, is this model a solution to a non-existent problem? I mean, are people willing to buy a 150 hp compact luxury sedan? While we can't definitively answer these questions, we will drive this over the next week and report back with some of our opinions.