2013 Acura ILX 2.0 Tech Walkaround, Review, and Test Drive

[@theredline]

You make great points, just remember that even though the two cars are similarly priced, the ILX is smaller, more nimble, more fuel efficient, nearly as quick, is more practical (4-doors vs 2), and offers the premium Acura badge along with a better dealership service experience. It comes down to which factors are more important for you when deciding between the two.

[@hch720]

I bought this car week ago. I really love it. Smooth, quiet, comfortable. driving is really fun. Engine power is not bad. Better than my 2005 Accord. It really stylish. I am proud of my decision.

[@jumbie4972]

Do you still have it? Was the car reliable or were their lots of problems?

[@hch720]

@@jumbie4972 Last year, I had to trade in for a 2021 Acura ILX Aspec for more power and to look more luxurious :). 2013 ILX there are no problems.

[@kelly.nicole]

@@hch720I’m getting this car this weekend lol. Coming from a 2020 Camry 🫣

[@LukeO-1234]

If you say like a civic one more time lol

[@livelifelovingly9983]

+Luke Hoisington LOOOOOL i was literally going to comment the EXACT SAME THING!

[@Fabwera]

😂😂😂 right!

[@ALITASHOW]

Civic 😂

[@erickar2634]

Civic

[@theworldview1]

Man this dud keep saying civic 🤦🏽‍♂️ it’s a Acura dud

[@everycarSeattle]

It's hard to believe Acura was for many years the cutting edge in every segment they entered. Everything they do now screams "Do not offend anyone"

[@JTB128650]

True lol

[@brorowcarwiz]

Love this review. One of your best to date. You give everything we need to know honestly. Huge Acura fan (had an '05 TSX and have an '11 MDX in the fam) and glad they finally have a new model.

[@mitchauer2]

It probably reminds of a Civic, because it is built on the civic platform!

[@JTB128650]

Real shit

[@illwill3492]

Accord

[@theredline]

Absolutely! It'll be uploaded sometime this coming week!

[@krunky5000]

I am impressed with all of you. unlike some people, I like to see personal opinion in your videos. it makes it seem less scripted and more natural. Not to bash saabkyle but I have never been able to finnish any of his videos. The opposite is true with you guys! Keep up the great work! you guys are awesome!

[@Jackhintze06]

In my opinion, this car is one of the deals of the century. I found one of these with the tech package, with only 20k miles for 16,500 dollars. And just look at the interior! It's like a BMW!

[@alexEMP1]

Jack Hintze wow!Nice steal!!

[@StraitClownin909]

Ugghh yeah and a toyota prius would blow the doors off if it. I cannot believe Acura didn't put the 201hp tsx motor in it.

[@mmyylloonn]

Jack Hintze bmw is wayyyy better in every way except reliability and gas mileage.

[@FT9chango5]

@@mmyylloonn which is actually a good reason not to get a bmw

[@frivolousaccount291]

@@FT9chango5 lol

[@theredline]

Depends on the car, manual transmissions from Honda are very easy to drive because of the light clutch and precise shifter. Being stuck in traffic really won't bother you at all.

[@theredline]

Nope, we took our time with this car, wanted to make sure you guys could get a good preview for how it drives :)

[@theredline]

We do see some small elements of cost cutting in the ILX such as no memory seats, no power lumber (none in general), no rear seat vents, and no power passenger seat. Other than those areas, it still feels like an Acura inside. We predict the 2014 model will be updated and address some of our issues.

[@theredline]

Just remember since the TSX is an older design, the 6MT SE model lacks push button start with smart entry, a back-up camera, and a color LCD display for the center stack. The ILX gives you all that for less money and is 400 lbs lighter as well.

[@theredline]

The 2.4 6MT makes a big difference. We should be uploading a review of that model soon. :)

[@theredline]

Tech adds NAV, ELS audio system, live traffic and weather. Premium adds leather, heated seats, power seats, HIDS, Acura premium sound, XM radio

[@dirkyinde]

I just saw this at the local autshow this weekend and loved it!

[@theredline]

It's because the RSX had the high revving K series engine. This is part of the R engine family from the Civic

[@theredline]

We understand that, but the ILX competes in an entry level semi-premium segment with the Buick Verona and even high trim levels of the Ford Focus Titanium. The ILX will be cross shopped with those models not a BMW 3 series or Audi A4

[@theredline]

Pus button start is standard on the ILX which is a nice surprise, same with a moonroof. I think what Acura should have done is made heated leather seats and power seats included in the $26,795 base model. The Premium package should have also added the premium ELS sound system. I also hope Acura adds things like Blind Spot information especially since they are going to introduce it on the 2013 Accord

[@feathers93]

I've got an 08 RL. In a few years i'd like to trade it for something that's smaller and more fuel efficient and i really like this car and acura has been great for me so i'd like top stay with them!

[@hondaftw1234]

OMG wasn't expecting this in my subscriptions!! Thank you! Wanted to see this car so bad!

[@theredline]

The Accord is a larger vehicle and is more of a family sedan. While the ILX is similarly priced to EX-L and up Accords, you need to ask yourself whether you want a roomy family sedan that you will see everywhere or something smaller with a premium nameplate that is more unique on the roads.

[@hsl2208]

“The vents are the only thing that remind me of the civic” *continues to compare this car to the civic for the rest of the review*

[@GibsonBuck]

The ILX is a souped-up Civic, here in Canada Acura had been offering an entry level model for years but they we're not offered in the states; 1.6EL, 1.7EL, CSX and now the ILX. In my opinion it's a lot of money for 10hp more, better sound system and better noise insulation..

[@supremeobliterator]

A friend and I just went to look at it in the showroom today. No test drive but it's a very sporty/small luxery car. Very good combination of sprotiness and class. Very sharp looking as well.

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

Paddles are standard, and if you've driven the 2012 Civic, it kind of feels like that but with slightly more power, a tighter suspension with a smoother ride, and a light steering that lacks a bit of feel but gives your more confidence in the curves vs a Civic

[@theredline]

We will have our 2013 ILX 2.4 video up by the weekend and we will make sure to answer that question for you.

[@TheSiGuy]

I really feel that the 2.0 should have 170 HP and a 6 speed auto. Hopefully it will when EDT us introduced.

[@theredline]

We agree, there is a good chance Acura will offer it for 2014.

[@tlg-]

I agree, his videos seem so robotic and monotone. Sure, he is successful, but I sure as hell know I cannot for the life of me watch a full video of his, whereas these ones I dont even skip parts! keep up the good work,,

[@theredline]

Well, it should tell you that in this form with the 5AT, this vehicle can feel a bit too similar to its civic platform mate. Which is a shame bc we do think its a nice car, we just aren't sure it's nice enough to wear the Acura badge and cost over $32k with the tech package.

[@theredline]

The TSX and ILX are not related at all. The TSX is based on the European Honda Accord while the ILX is based on the North American Civic.

[@deeeutschland]

jesus christ this is an acura not a civic

[@JTB128650]

Civic lol

[@acuras4ever]

you guys are the best!!... THE BEST! saabkyle time to move over bro!

[@theredline]

It's rated at 24/35... not bad but also a tad lackluster consider the new 2013 Accord 2.4 CVT gets 27/36

[@theredline]

we agree, Acura needs a coupe again

[@lowincash]

I had the chance to drive this car around recently, my friend got it as a loaner car while his TL was getting worked on. Nice looking car, kinda feels and looks smaller than the civic for some reason. I LOVE the steering wheel it just feels great in the hand. Seats are comfortable and ride was smooth and very quiet. Only wish it has more power. Getting on the fwy I stepped on it all the way and it took its time getting up to speed =/

[@moisesgonzalez3511]

You brought us great content since 2012!

[@Veyronp87]

Well DONE!!!! great job getting a mechanism that holds your camera!!! looks way more professional than using your hands!!

[@theredline]

Actually, the RSX surprisingly had somewhat of a cheap interior. The dash and door panels are all hard touch and it lacks power seats, dual zone auto temp, HID lights, memory seats, and other features people expect in a luxury brand.

[@Dillon1791]

Right on with the invisible exhaust tip. I'm sure in the next 1-2 years their will be a new after market exhaust for this car and Acura by then would have updated it a tad, hopefully giving the bumper little tabs you can pop out (like Volvo's) to put a larger straight exhaust tips/muffler on. It also needs Dual exhaust IMO. -This all goes for the RDX aswell.

[@theredline]

Most trim around the radio will be plastic

[@theredline]

ah so you were looking at an EX-L NAVI, than yes that is closer to 25 grand which is similarly equipped like this car but lacking HIDS, Pandora, Text message reading, push button start, fog lights, 17" rims, high quality materials, and of course the Acura name lol It cost about 6 grand more than the EX-L NAVI and I think its worth the extra money, at least until I see what Honda does with the updated 2013 Civic

[@tootsiejoon]

I totally agree with you about the power. I wasn't even considering anything under 200 hp, but I decided to just look at it anyway.

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

its out there, but the dealer hasn't gotten one yet. They should get one next month

[@AlexTheeGr8t]

the TSX is the European Accord (sold in Japan, Australia and other places around the world) and the TL is based on the US Accord.

[@AlexTheeGr8t]

I think most people targeted by Acura for the ILX would normally think their other option in this segment would be the Buick Verano. However, after watching the video I think I want a Civic (I do understand the reason for all the Civic references). Oh with that being said, can you review the Verano and give us your thoughts and how it compares to the ILX? Good luck with your KZbin page and continued success. I subscribed.

[@SoundMan1985]

It always gets me, when people try to demonstrate the sound system.

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

I agree, I do wish the 2.4 came standard with all the under body spoilers and those rims however

[@incarswetrust]

What a great review... I'm speechless!

[@tlg-]

So, today they announced theyre dropping the 2.0l engine due to slow sales and complaints about the car being 'underpowered', apparently they are adding an automatic transmission to the 2.4, but I think it might end up being the new Earth Dreams [ugh] 2.4, and not the one offered on the high end model - something about packaging issues.

[@rtistik]

Thank you for this great video review of this car. I might convince myself to trade my 2012 Civic EX Coupe in for the 2013 ILX 2.0 with Tech. Then again I might not, maybe I'll swap my Civic EX for a Civic EX-L with Navigation, pay off the car, then get the 2013 ILX 2.0 as an extra car for me and be satisfied. The ILX to me would be for long distance travels that I like to do, the Civic to me would be for riding around the city and maybe for highway use, but anyways keep up the good work.

[@MrFreshMonkeyz]

The ILX is based off the platform of the CSX. As you can tell they discontinued the CSX and have replaced it with the ILX. The CSX essentially was a luxury compact taken directly from the design que of the Honda Civic. As a result it is inevitable to compare it the Honda Civic. In the past the CSX did not do well in the luxury compact segment, due to the fact it was almost identical to the civic but more expensive. And that is why Acura has changed the line up from a marketing perspective.

[@turbo311]

All true, but the interior quality of the TSX is far superior, and I really like the SE design touches. Car and Driver's long term ILX has gotten a lot of negative comments mostly about the interior. I think the TSX looks better also, and it has control arm front suspension since it's really the Euro Accord underneath. Neither car has the tech package. Why do they think enthusiasts don't want that?

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

i would def recommend it to her, its quiet, luxurious, techy, and good looking. Its like the Civic honda should have built

[@theredline]

The Acura TL is based on the Honda Accord's platform

[@ecurules]

The thing that disappoints me the most about the ILX is that Acura didn't include the LSD from the Si on the 2.4. They should have given the 2.4 the same suspension tuning as the Si.

[@stough77]

Another great review! The car does look much different in the walkaround as opposed to how it photographs.I imagine that the color choice in this car could add to or take away from the overall appeal as well - it does look good in black with the dealer add-ons. My only small gripe is the tail lights - the seem very Elantra-esque the way they wrap around the quater panels. Powertrains could use some slight changes also. Overall I think Acura did a great job with the car.

[@danwat1234]

The 2013 ILX hybrid doesn't have an Atkinson cycle engine like other full hybrids like the 2013 Accord hybrid, that's why it's only rated at around 39MPG combined. Honda/Acura, Earth Dreams engines would be nice to have across the Acura and Hona lineup. It'll have Atkinson cycle and OTTO cycle combined in one engine, where in the case of a high load the engine will be in OTTO cycle mode and when you are driving economically, the engine will be in Atkinson cycle mode, so hybrid like MPG

[@lukesylvester2022]

Damn, this channel grew fast

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

I agree, especially on the 2.4, that car really needs a dual exhaust system like the TSX

[@TheMrcnut]

He's right to compare it to the Civic, which is a good car btw. It would be just as valuable to mention the Altima and Maxima when talking about an Infiniti G, and the Camry when talking about the Lexus ES... There is a huge amount of borrowed tech for obvious reasons. Are the premium brands different? Sure. But they were not built entirely from scratch.

[@KraziAzn2]

Let's play a drinking. Every time he say "typical honda" take a shot.

[@theredline]

The 6MT model makes 201hp from a larger 2.4L 4cyl engine.

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

yup, the TSX is a lot bigger than an Integra though so thats why I kind of consider this to be a replacement for the 4 door Integra

[@WrongFromWright]

ILX = Integra Luxury?

[@JTB128650]

I guess lol

[@rolandj]

good overview, thanks. so much more detail of the car itself than other videos

[@rickslick730]

Saabkyle is good to, he just need to drive them and do some editing on his videos they are to long, but his style is different, that's why i like his channel as wall.

[@gallyun1]

Yeah, Acura goofed up on this car. the 2.4 should have been standard in the automatic, just like the old TSX. A good price on a used one would a good deal though.

[@turbo311]

I've been arguing 2013 Civic Si or 2013 Accord V6 against this car, but totally didn't realize the TSX Special Edition 6spd is only about a grand or two more than the ILX and totally worth the extra cash. I wish it was it's cousin, the Accord Euro R, but still the TSX is an awesome car and more of a real Acura. I'd pick the TSX Special Edition if not the Si sedan.

[@ITILII]

Take a drink every time he says Civic 🥂

[@AllinTMC]

But Ummm!!!

[@Pedal2TheMetal]

Wow that actually looks way better than I thought! I would love to get one with a manual transmission!

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

don't worry! It is in the works, expect the entire Acura lineup later this month :D

[@turbo311]

It did, but for the time it was pretty nice. It was more luxurious than the DC2 Integra, and both cars sold incredibly well. But they were also catering to someone who wanted a sporty coupe so they were willing to sacrifice luxury. The ILX is falling awkwardly in between.

[@Dillon1791]

Thanks for the complement. I hope to work for Honda one day. I'm only 15, turning 16 July. So I'm pretty week at the moment as far as getting a job/degree. About the power.. See, the ILX is a Entry level. It shouldn't have numbers over 240hp 210lbsT. It only weighs 2,900lbs so it wouldnt need that much more anyway.. Maybe 160hp, 190lbsT for the LDA15, 170hp,160lbsT for the Base R20 and 220hp, 180lbsT for the K24. CVT hybrid, 6at/mt else where. Honda is going Direct Injection next year.

[@fijitears]

How are you?

[@tremorelano]

I'm a an 07 TSX owner and i think ILX is the modernly shaped, and luxuriously upgraded version of the 07 generation..Since the new TSX got too big, they couldn't resist the demand from consumers who wanted exactly this.. Maybe

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

I agree 100%, someone actually traded in an IS350 while we were there and I noticed the exact same thing lol

[@hondaftw1234]

My 2012 CR-V is this color, and I freakin love it!

[@theredline]

There is a 2.4 available with a 6MT

[@flexor212000]

Feedback wise I didn't really like how you constantly referred to Honda's and Civics. I was looking forward to hearing how this was different from the TSX since they are close to each other. I understand Acura and Honda are the same but I don't think you can compare to a Civic. Anyway that's just my thoughts.

[@Alexw3460]

I going to test drive a ILX today it should be a good car i like your car tests it look like you live in a nice city

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

Its on my list next, Radley just didn't have one in stock yet

[@Jakeman21642]

Would you recommend this as a car for an elderly woman? My grandmother's H6 subaru is getting the gas mileage of an 18 wheeler and she needs to get something more fuel efficient soon. She likes the civic hybrid a lot but I think this would be even better since its a little more luxurious and stylish.

[@wavehogger]

Nice review and it looks amazing in the video. I have to get over to my dealer and take a ride. If your only gripe is the power there is the 201 hp 2.4 liter. Now that in this smaller car must be quick. I will check it out myself. ;)

[@shsjr2010]

my two cents worth: needs at least another gear in the tranny, i mean a kia rio has a six speed automatic now. Needs more power from the,150hp from a 2.0L today is behind the times as you mentioned. I'm sure those issues will be addressed with the mid cycle refresh because if they gave it more gears and more power now, it would definitely effect TSX sales since the cars are already so close in price. At least for me they got the looks right because I think it looks great, and interior is nice.

[@kyle4193]

The ILX is a great looking car, but the price tag for this model is a little unexpected when it's fully loaded. The back of the car looks weird without a visible exhaust pipe. I think I would just go for the TSX.

[@MrSpidy23]

I think you must have said civic about a billion times. In the end, I felt the message was this is just a civic in disguise...

[@rickslick730]

Its all good! your very knowledgeable about cars, i like how you Broke it down. and you are right they do need to step it up, the new SI is very disappointing, and this new ILX need more hp like maybe 200 or more.

[@Gillymonsterproductions]

In terms of chassis interchangability this holds very true and you can't tell me otherwise. I never said directly it was a civic. And parts from both fit....Then again some of you don't bedabble in the world of imports to know what can and can't be swapped without issue or extreme mod. Albeit why I put my comment the way I put it.

[@Atta687]

I like how the engine sounds. It sounds like a real Honda engine to me.

[@MarkFrankJPN]

This is a really nice review. Great work.

[@theshooting_guard]

agreed. plus this thing rolls on Macpherson struts as opposed to doublewishbones that hold the TSX.

[@KardiFan2000]

That engine is made for 6-speed manuals...but it's stupid how u can't get it with the Tech package.

[@theworldview1]

Dam Brah you keep saying Honda nigga it’s a Acura 🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️🤦🏽‍♂️

[@Fallin159]

Honda is Acura bruh 💀

[@TheEuroperules]

Nice vid man.The car looks amazing.I love the interior. Of course honda haters always gonna hate.

[@yoshi18929]

The ILX looks way better than at the auto show. Great job, Acura. Beautiful car! ^_^

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

I haven't driven a 2012 TL SH-AWD yet but it always sounded promising to me, I'm not sure I would go as far as to call it boring but I'm sure it would be even better if you went with the 6MT

[@JonTheChron]

The ILX is directly related to the Honda Civic, Just like the Acura 97-00 EL 1.6 was related to the 96-00 1.6 Civic, the 01-05 1.7 EL was related to the 1.7 CIVIC and the 2006 + Acura CSX was related to the CIvic, the ILX is just a continuation of Acura's low-end luxury brand and it's a direct comparaison with the Civic, Just a few leather seats and styling..

[@theredline]

Interesting, where did you read that?

[@turbo311]

Even so, if it brings the price up over $31k I'd just go with the Accord Coupe EX-L V6 with Navi. It may not be the Acura navi, and it may not have the ELS audio, but that V6 and the new Accord overall are probably a better pick over the ILX as a whole.