2013 Acura ILX 6-Speed - Redline: Review

[@theredline]

The two models were cross shopped price-wise and the most Honda dealers will discount a 2013 Civic Si is around $1500 bucks, while Acura takes nearly $4,000 off the ILX. The 2013 Si is actually in high demand (at least in our area) at this time, we thought long and hard between the two and in the end, the luxury features like leather/heated seats, smart entry and push button ignition, dual zone auto temp, power driver seat, and HIDs were more important for us over the NAV system in the Si.

[@TonyKimtheamusementparkfan]

That 2.4L VTEC 4-cylinder from the Civic SI and the Acura TSX will always be one of the best 4-cylinder engines that Honda has made. Love how high it revs, love the VTEC crossover, and it's just nice to rev out a Honda 4-cylinder to have some fun, but without getting into loads of trouble.

[@jimstone8842]

This car has been my daily driver for the last 6 years, bought it with 30,000 miles 3 years old and paid 18k, hell of a lot better than what a newer model SI or Integra will cost you these days.

[@theredline]

In the car world, there's always some impulsivity, you just have to be smart about it. We knew Acura was offering great deals on the ILX and figured it was time to part ways with the Honda Fit. We had a few other cars on the list as the replacement but the Acura kept coming back into mind since it offered most of the features we were looking for at a great deal. We'll be excited to share our thoughts on the car as time goes on, so far it's been great.

[@theredline]

You make all valuable points. We don't fault you for buying the Accord Coupe instead. Just keep in mind, some people will choose the Acura b/c of the premium badge, while others may prefers its more petite size or 4-door body. To some buyers, an Accord seems too common while others may not fancy having only 2-doors. Our ILX is averaging 31 MPG as well. As far as features, they are pretty similar and the premium gas for the ILX isn't much more expensive since the tank is only 13 gallons in size.

[@Ometheon]

I like that you are still experimenting with details of the format of the show. Keep it up, you are getting there!

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

Hey Tyson, I've read your blog and saw your video when you picked it up from the dealer. Yours looks fantastic, I was contemplating adding the under body spoilers as well but I just couldn't justify the cost the dealer was asking even at their "employee" price. Regardless, I am quite pleased with the car so far, it's amazing how many miles are on yours, I look forward to putting that many on mine as well. Wish you best of luck and I also look forward to more videos of your ILX :)

[@theredline]

As a daily driver, the ILX is more comfortable, luxurious, yet still fun to drive. On the real roads you don't notice the lack of a LSD and the normal gauges and closer dash are easier on the eyes. Not to say the Si is bad but the Acura is a much more mature car that is even easier to live with. As far as price, it is more expensive but Acura dealers are willing to discount the car a lot and the price difference is really more like $2500. Only thing it needs is the tech package.

[@TysonHugie]

Nice review Sofyan! Great choice on the Fathom Blue exterior and the 6MT powertrain. Sounds like we're both doing long-term testing on the ILX. I got my Silver Moon 6-speed last June and I'm at over 31,000 miles already. Blogging about my travels on my blog "Drive to Five." (KZbin won't let me paste a link here). I'll be following your assessment. Keep it up.

[@TheK24Kyle]

this completely fills what the integra was about. premium, fun to drive, unique with an amazing pwrtrain combination and definately cheap to own, maintain and on the lower side to buy as well. looks very modern and i can see exactly why these are kind of all over my area. im not huge on the non 2.4trims but its different to have a hybrid and all. needs some packaging help, and it can be amazingly successful. will outlive anything german thats for sure! though if it were my money id opt accord v6

[@theredline]

It's not that the ST is a bad car. It was just too focused on performance for what we needed. We'd happily recommend one to the buyer it's designed to appeal to. It just wasn't us at the moment.

[@theredline]

We agree with you, lately Acura has been on this trend of hiding the exhaust tips on their latest designs. The new RLX has a quad-outlet exhaust but it's hiding underneath the rear bumper :(

[@theredline]

Unless you get the ELS Audio from the tech package. The sound system in this 6-speed model is basically the same as the Si. Both are 7-speakers including a subwoofer and 360 watts of power. It's a decent system but we'd like to see Acura make the ELS audio standard.

[@theredline]

Have you had a chance to drive all three? The Speed3 will be the most harsh in terms of ride and noise levels. If you constantly put your kids in the car on long trips they may complain. The Focus ST has a better balance between the Si and Mazda but you could see some first model year problems with the technology in it. The Si will be the most comfortable as a daily driver, with a spacious backseat between the 2 and most comfortable riding as well. The choice is yours :)

[@clock959]

OMG it's you!!! the new face of acura commercials--the guy w/ 500k miles on his acura legend! you are truly inspirational! after following your blog, i'm an acura fanboy now! although i must admit, the acura legend was the last TRUE acura :P

[@theredline]

Not a clue, we are taking suggestions though :)

[@theredline]

Mercedes has announced a base price of just under $30,000 for the CLA, expect that to be a base model with faux leather, no heated seats, no smart entry, no xenon lights, no back up camera, and manual seat adjustments. We understand why you'd rather have a vehicle with the Mercedes badge but expect it to be $40 grand once you've equipped it like this ILX.

[@theredline]

Well, at one point we were thinking about the full body kit but Acura dealers are just asking too much money for all that. Doesn't seem worth the cost to us, hopefully Acura makes a special edition of this car like the TSX with the body kit.

[@Lwildcat711]

It has been well over a year since I saw this video. It was a main influence on buying the ILX 2.4. The car I was going to buy was the Audi A5 manual, but had trouble finding a manual transmission Audi. Of note, I owned one of the first 3 series BMWs where you blinked your lights when you saw another BMW. I owned an Integra when it came out, and I traded in a TL for the ILX. I have had fun with the ILX and glad I got it as maybe my last manual transmission car since it is a dying option.

[@markrideout8974]

+Lwildcat711 nice review

[@theredline]

The CLA is also FWD, a base A4 and A3 is FWD as well. BMW next generation 1 series will also be FWD. it would see the competition is switching to that architecture.

[@theredline]

The reason is explained in the test drive

[@theredline]

Well, we left the RSX out because it was only a coupe, the last time Acura had a 4 door based on the Civic was the Integra

[@stough77]

That's kind of what I thought. Other reviewers comments on the Si being un-drivable w/o the LSD seemed like a stretch. Really like the car - if it was available when I bought my Si, I would've gone for it for sure. The gauges alone are so much nicer - i'm over the digital speedo gauge on my car. Nice review as always! Keep up the good work:)

[@ACCORDingtoTom]

I would take one of these in black! Not a fan of the spoiler, but to each his own! Congrats on the new car and thanks for the great video.

[@davidsinclair528]

Hi i just bought a Ilx 6speed for 24,899 with 6,000 mile i bought be cause of you Sofyan really worth it thanks

[@DieselDan09]

Great to see your videos are improving! Keep it up

[@jesse73429]

Hey you guys should really review a Challeneger SRT 8 :( Lol. This is the only channel with legit reviews!

[@ckenney2ck]

Nice review! Love the Integra comparison....🎉🎉🎉

[@jfreeze2685]

i am a new sub and i think that you do great job of reviews. your channel is my new go to for reviews. great job dude!

[@TysonHugie]

Haha, thanks for following along! Yeah 520k on that old Legend now!

[@theredline]

The underbody spoiler kit was tempting but it's a tad too pricey for our taste ;)

[@NeutralGenericUser]

I love the new Civic Si rear end, but it just doesn't have that strong, brawny shoulder line that looks like it extends from where the trunk ends to over the tail lights. Not sure if that makes any sense, but the first time I saw this car from the rear, I genuinely thought it was some exotic 2 door coupe. I didn't realize it was a 4 door Acura until I got close enough to see the badge. Anyways, it's a great choice for a car, so congratulations :)

[@PorscheCayenneLover]

YESSS!! I knew staying up late would pay off :D . Thanks Sofyan for uploading this! Awesome vid.

[@ahkeen]

I think this is the update of the rsx. U seem to forget about that car. But totally agree with you about needing to add the tech package to the 2.4 liter model.

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

It is recommended for the best performance, I put premium in it and it cost about 5 bucks more per tank vs regular. Not that big of a deal and you notice the engine performs better and gets better MPG.

[@AvacadokenHonda19]

The video the 2TR Fans have been waiting for, other than the Si video ;)

[@elusivellama]

@2theRedlineLLC The gen2 speed3's NVH isn't that excessive in stock form, due to the soft engine mounts. It may be harsher and rides less smoothly than the Si and the ST, but I assure you (and the original questioner) that a stock speed3 isn't going to beat you up in the daily drive. Even after I installed 3 upgraded engine mounts, they have broken in sufficiently that my occasional passenger(s) don't even notice that anything is amiss, one of them even remarking on how well my car rides.

[@theredline]

It's not that bad on real world roads, you'd probably notice it a lot more on the track but this car has just fractionally a tad more wheel spin than an Si.

[@ldawson103]

I like the review and agree with 99% of what you suggest with the exception of the hidden exhaust I like how it's tucked away.

[@turbo311]

Would you choose this over the 2013 Civic Si sedan? Consider that the Acura is at least $6k more expensive, has no LSD, and can't have navigation on the 6spd K24 model. The interior of the ILX is better by far with regular gauges, smaller dash, closer A-pillars, feels more like a regular car.

[@VemacRD350]

Nice video. I was hoping that Acura would do some sort of revamp with the ILX like how they redid the Civic.

[@micahprov]

I like this car. Would love to see frequent update videos

[@mtor92]

@11:32 the two older ladies in the green Camry are going, "Why the hell are there cameras on that guy's car?" hahaha

[@NeutralGenericUser]

I'm surprised you don't like the back of the car. To me, it looks very sporty. I've actually seen quite a few of these ILX's in Ontario, so I'm guessing Acura is selling a good amount in Canada. I wonder how well it's doing elsewhere, in the US, and across the world (or is this model limited to North America?). Anyways, great review as usual. Thanks :)

[@DancinRandy54]

sofyan i loveeeeeeee the car!!!!! i want it soo bad! if i got one i would get it the exact same way u did!! it really looks great!! good luck with it!!! im going to think of a name for the ilx for u!! im going to the dealer this weekend to price one out

[@turbo311]

Good points. I'd probably skip the navi on the Si anyway and save some money. That system isn't worth $1500. Can always install the LSD in the ILX and have the best of both. That K24 has the torque to spin the inside wheel easily. Though I thought it was funny when TOV said the Si would be undriveable without the LSD, not true obviosuly. I was crewing for another team at Thunderhill 25 Hours and we were against a pair of ILX's from Team Honda Research, who the previous year raced with an Si.

[@drpthemc]

another great review. will you ever do a review on the new '13 Accord Sport 6MT? I really like hearing your take on the 6MT Honda/Acura (as we all know, they make great manuals!).

[@mackcummy4976]

before this car was the Acura EL available only in Canada. The Canadian public was asking for a small entry level Acura as opposed to other companies which bring them out first.

[@jesuspadilla6428]

Dang that engine sings so nice!

[@ChevroletErik]

Excellent review on your new car, just one question where did you get that exhaust tip, I'm thinking of adding one on my Civic Coupe, it just looks too awkward and I want to spice the rear end up a little. Please respond.

[@DancinRandy54]

i love the blueee! the car seems soo fast i want it now

[@theredline]

One of the camera mounts was making the noise

[@6824096]

I want to watch but it annoys the shit out of me that my iPhone 5 is going to a blurry screen. Nice videos as always. Thumbs up from me.

[@BlueSube136]

Not getting another acura until they release a 2door coupe!

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

Depends on your definition of fast, for most, a 0-60 time in the low 6 second range is pretty quick.

[@bmwmsport11]

Did you take a look at the honda CR-Z while you were on the hunt for a new car? They look cool. Good video :)

[@importcarenthusiast]

Awesome review!!! I really wish they made the 2.0 a few grand cheaper and gave it a manual. I wouldnt even mind sacrificing some features, if they did lower the price of teh base 2.0.

[@stough77]

Cool video. I like the car and color you chose. I'm curious how often you get the inside wheel peel not having the lsd...

[@SubieSean]

Great comparison to the Integra.

[@DrBrainrape]

Integra GSR one is the best sport compact cars ever made, Honda needs to go back to that heritage. 1990’s when Honda was at it’s pinnacle.

[@shsjr2010]

great review Sofyan. I am just wondering what the revs are in sixth gear at highway speeds?

[@brorowcarwiz]

Great review, Sofyan! Are you planning to add any other accessories to the ILX?

[@wongman66]

Acura and Honda boys need to work on making quieter cars. Verano is much quieter. But no one can make engines like Honda. nice review.

[@dave11686]

Excellent video, just don't understand why the car doesn't have a split folding seat, that's my only gripe.

[@theredline]

We think until Honda offers the CRZ with this motor we wouldn't even consider it ;)

[@LCCDrummer]

Was the exhaust tip a dealer installed add on or did you do that yourself? I couldn't find an exhaust tip as an option on the Acura website.

[@J-W.-]

I couldn't either.

[@cryoman94]

This car has awesome shifts!

[@theredline]

Nope, the ILX falls into a new class of premium compact cars with the Buick Verano, the upcoming Mercedes-Benz CLA250, and Audi A3

[@theredline]

I guess we just like the rear end of the new 2013 Civic Si sedan much more ;)

[@Veyronp87]

not the biggest fan of the ilx, but congrats on your new car!

[@philheb]

Where did you get the exhaust tip? Thank you ! Nice review btw...

[@ajfam871]

Please answer s QUESTION. I'm debating between a 2013 Civic SI(sedan)' 2013 Mazdaspeed3, & focus ST(I like it but I don't like it being in its first year). I have kids, & drive about 50 mikes a day for work. I'm 29 and live in CA. I've always wanted a Speed3 & love the SI (Fantastic interior). My first car was a 2000 Integra LS. Thank you.

[@truonghthe]

swap the MT from the SI then you will solve the problem with the LSD, yeah I do agree with you they should get rid of that 2.0 model and offer tech package on the ILX with the 2.4, optional is choice between AT or MT.

[@gaivoron]

too bad they are switching to front wheel drive, i guess to lower manufacturing cost and better mpg is the main focus at the moment. I really like the ILX but i think it would benefit more with availability of coupe body style and 2.4l standard instead of 2.0. And 3 door hatch would of been a killer especially with those tailings look like Audi A3 hatch.

[@97I30T]

I get the distinct impression now that Sofyan really likes blue

[@CREATIVEreviews]

Clean and fun video!

[@prototypeglory]

Great upgrade bro

[@DancinRandy54]

reallly great intro btw!!!

[@xoquixxoqafxo]

Again, don't think of it as a 30 grand Civic, it's much nicer than that. Look at the GTI/GLI, both vehicles also hit or go past the 30k mark fully loaded as well. Factor in the discounts Acura dealers are doing on this car and the actual cost was about $2500 more than a Civic Si. Styling is all subjective but most people find the look of the ILX to be either conservative or handsome. It doesn't really offend people like the 09-11 TL did.

[@ajfam871]

Thanks for the reply I like the ride as well the focus power felt smooth and linear. The SI felt food but not all much faster than my current Spec. I like how you can feel the Speeds turbo kick around 3K rpm. What mileage do you get on the speed. I here if you stay off the boost, that you van get good mileage. Thanks.

[@theredline]

Soon, we are waiting for the new Q50 to come out :)

[@hondaftw1234]

Excellent objective review

[@theredline]

Hey that's a really good one thank you!

[@ajfam871]

Thanks for the quick reply. I have test drove all 3. I currently drive a Sinatra SER Spec-V(Before this was 00 Integra LS). So they are used to the ride. Thanks can you do a review on the Speed 3. We also have 11 Pilot so this will be my toy I'm leaning towards The Speed 3 or SI. I can get the SI fully loaded got the same price as the base Speed 3 . thanks again. I love your videos.

[@ksorsomeplace]

I would be interested to know the amount of the discounts they are offering.

[@AznfoboiXO]

nice car! do you guys plan to modify it?

[@KhrissyDaDon]

@2theRedlineLLC Ooooooww!! Can't wait (:

[@joshuafleming4751]

I prefer the first person view in your videos

[@kokopuffs5789]

at $30,000+ this car really competes with better choices of cars, like a 2013 kia optima SX, 2013 mazda 6, 2013 ford fusion and even a 2013 honda accord V6 and they all give you the same if not better mpg

[@Japplesnap]

Nice car overall, but why didn't they put a dual-tip exhaust on it? Almost all upscale cars these days have twin (separated) tips, even though the vast majority of them are split from a single exhaust system. Still though, the back of the ILX badly needs a nice polished tip on each side of the car.

[@alfu8868]

I' m shocked you did not get the focus st. I have to say I'm a little disappointed. I subscribed because I loved your reviews of ford vehicles. When you reviewed the escape and st I remember hearing great things about those cars, but now that you got an Acura, I'm not sure I believe you any more.

[@dirkyinde]

i like but i wish they would keep the tsx which i plan to get in the summer

[@MarcHamady]

The only competitor to this car is the Buick Verano. The Verano has an advantage over this car in the performance department. The ILX is a slow selling car because the 2.4L engine isn't standard, and that seems to be a turn off for a lot of folks wanting a premium compact sedan.

[@bneyens]

In your 2009 EX-L video you repeatedly remarked about how "sad" it was the that V6 Accord was the fastest Honda. No more S2000, Prelude, no NSX. That is all I meant.

[@farcinue]

We were looking for cars for my wife who does not drive or want a manual. For me, $29k for the leather ILX auto with a 150hp engine is kind of lame. The base engine should be the 2.4, and Honda should offer a 6 speed auto or even the cvt from the accord with that engine. I would have bought it if it wasmore similar to the previous generation TSX... a sporty, compact near luxury sedan. Given the TSX's pricing, Honda should be offering a loaded ILX with a 2.4l auto for more like $28k or less.

[@s5866137]

Nice interior, I love it.

[@RWTFska8te]

Acura, WE WANT AN ILX COUPE!

[@2Kriss2Kross]

I don't see why Acura should not make a two door version. Unlike the Integra, they felt this was worthy of the Acura badge, taking two doors off shouldn't be a problem.

[@4bryan4]

this replaces the csx lol. the civic luxury ..

[@RetireMyJersey7]

They should make a type S version of this car. And you should make an acura tl type s review 07-08

[@mackcummy4976]

The 2.4 liter is the Type-S version. The 2.4 liter is a K24 with 201 hp though it should be 220hp