The ILX, Acura’s entry into the all-important entry-level compact luxury segment, gets a major refresh for 2016. Gone is that anemic little 2.0-litre four that boasted a paltry — especially if you were pretending to be a luxury brand — 150 horsepower. Instead, the only engine that will be available will be the 201-hp 2.4L i-VTEC four that used to power the top-of-the-line Dynamic model.
2016 Acura ILX
Handout, Acura
The powertrain has been upgraded, however, with a unique paddle-shifted, eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that also boasts a torque converter. Unique to Acura, the addition of the torque converter is claimed to offer smoother, peppier launch. No doubt having eight-speeds in the gearbox will also perk up the performance. The same basic powertrain serves as the base engine/transmission combination in the newly-released TLX so the ILX should be plenty peppy.
The ILX further separates itself from its Civic platform-mate with aggressive front and rear fascias, Jewel Eye LED headlights and some much needed upgrades to the interior’s fit and finish. All ILXs will now come standard with the AcuraWatch driver assist technologies that include adaptive cruise control, a Lane Keeping Assist system, Road Departure Mitigation and an enhanced Collision Mitigation Braking system. Also available is Honda’s new tethered navigation system that works with the owner’s iPhone and data plan via the AcuraLink navigation app.
2016 Acura ILX
Handout, Acura
