2013 Acura ILX Hybrid: First Look

Here’s a first look at the latest Ride of the Week, a 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid.

The ILX is an all-new model for Acura, the automaker’s entry-level compact sedan. The ILX Hybrid represents a first for the brand too, applying parent company Honda’s proven gasoline-electric hybrid system to improve fuel efficiency. It’s one of three available powertrains Acura offers in the ILX.

The most affordable model in the lineup is the base ILX with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine. It has a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $25,900, plus an $895 destination charge. For the money, drivers get a 5-speed automatic transmission and automatic climate control, keyless access, a leather-wrapped tilt/telescope steering wheel, a backup camera and a sunroof. An available Premium package adds leather, heated seats, premium audio and, for models other than the hybrid, active noise cancellation. The Technology package ups the ante with a navigation system and voice recognition.

Those looking for a sportier driving experience can opt for the ILX 2.4L, which cranks out 201 horsepower, 51 more than the 2.0-liter, and comes mated exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission. The performance-oriented ILX comes with the Premium package and is priced at $30,095 including destination charge.

With a goal of better fuel economy, the ILX Hybrid uses a considerably smaller 4-cylinder engine and a CVT, or continuously variable transmission. Output is considerably less, too; the 1.5-liter engine and electric motor make just 111 horsepower. But the result is an EPA-rated combined fuel economy of 38 mpg. That beats the base ILX’s combined number by 10 mpg. Starting MSRP for the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid is $28,900, plus $895 destination charge. With the Tech package, the price including destination charge is just over $35,000.

Quick Specs: 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid w/ Technology Package