2013 Acura ILX Launches in US with Three Powertrain Options
Acura’s entry-level ILX saloon arrives at US dealerships for 2013, starting at $25,900 before destination, offering petrol and hybrid variants and a choice of manual or automatic gearboxes.
Acura has launched the 2013 ILX across US dealerships, marking the brand’s entry into the compact premium saloon market. With a starting price of $25,900 before destination charges, the ILX is designed as Acura’s entry-level model and aims to attract younger buyers with a choice of petrol and hybrid powertrains. The model is positioned to appeal to those seeking a step up from mainstream saloons, offering a blend of efficiency, features, and premium appeal.
2013 Acura ILX Launches in the US Market
Pricing and Trim Levels
The 2013 Acura ILX is offered in several configurations, each targeting a distinct buyer profile. The base model starts at $25,900, with the destination charge bringing the total entry price to $26,795. For those seeking increased performance, Acura offers a 2.4-litre four-cylinder version, while the ILX Hybrid provides a more efficient alternative. The hybrid is priced from $29,975, making it one of the few hybrid options in the segment at launch.
| Model | Engine | Transmission | Power (hp) | Starting Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ILX 2.0 | 2.0-litre I-4 | 5-speed automatic | 150 | 25,900 |
| ILX 2.4 | 2.4-litre I-4 | 6-speed manual | 201 | 30,095 |
| ILX Hybrid | 1.5-litre I-4 + electric | CVT | n/a | 29,975 |
Standard Features and Optional Packages
Acura equips the base ILX with a range of standard features intended to deliver comfort and convenience. Highlights include a power moonroof, keyless entry and ignition, USB audio, automatic climate control, and a touchscreen audio system supporting Pandora and SMS text messaging. The seating combines leather with cloth inserts, underscoring the car’s premium aspirations while maintaining affordability.
- Power moonroof
- Keyless entry and ignition
- USB audio interface
- Automatic climate control
- Touchscreen audio system with Pandora and SMS functionality
- Cloth/leather combination seats
For buyers looking for more luxury and technology, two main packages are available. The Premium package, priced at $3,300, upgrades the ILX with heated front seats, full leather upholstery, a multi-angle rear camera, an improved audio system, and 17-inch alloy wheels. The Technology package, costing $2,200, adds a hard-drive-based navigation system and a 10-speaker ELS sound system, enhancing connectivity and entertainment.
- Premium package: heated leather seats, 17-inch alloys, multi-angle rear camera, upgraded audio system
- Technology package: hard-drive navigation, ELS 10-speaker audio
Powertrain Details and Hybrid Option
The standard ILX features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 150 hp, paired with a five-speed automatic gearbox. For those prioritising performance, the ILX 2.4 offers a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine rated at 201 hp, exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. This variant is available only with the Premium package, reflecting its sportier intent.
The ILX Hybrid, sharing its basic hybrid system with the Honda Civic Hybrid, combines a 1.5-litre engine with electric assistance. This model stands out in the segment, as few compact premium saloons offered hybrid powertrains at the time of its launch. The hybrid’s focus on efficiency broadens the ILX’s appeal, especially for buyers seeking lower running costs and reduced emissions without sacrificing comfort or features.
Market Position and Competitors
The ILX shares its platform with the Honda Civic but is tuned for a more refined ride and higher specification levels. Acura’s aim is to attract buyers stepping up from mainstream models, offering a more premium experience without the higher entry costs of larger luxury saloons. The ILX faces competition from models such as the Audi A3 and Buick Verano, both of which target similar buyers in the compact premium segment.
The arrival of the ILX Hybrid is notable, as it was Acura’s first hybrid saloon for the US market. This addition broadens Acura’s portfolio and gives the brand a contender among environmentally conscious buyers, a group that was growing in influence at the time. The ILX’s combination of powertrain options and equipment packages positions it as a flexible choice for a range of customers, from those prioritising value to those seeking technology and efficiency.
Summary
With the launch of the 2013 ILX, Acura enters the competitive compact premium saloon market with a model that offers a choice of petrol and hybrid powertrains, a strong list of standard features, and a range of optional packages. The ILX’s pricing and equipment are designed to attract new buyers to the brand, particularly those looking for an affordable yet well-equipped premium car. Its arrival also marks an important step for Acura with the introduction of its first hybrid saloon to US customers.
