Is the Acura ILX good on gas?
Yes. For a compact luxury sedan, the ILX offers competitive fuel economy, typically in the upper 20s to low 30s mpg depending on year and drivetrain.
This article explains how fuel economy varies by model year and engine, what to expect in real-world driving, and practical tips to maximize efficiency when shopping for or owning an ILX.
Model years and efficiency
Two generations of the ILX affect its mpg, with the early cars using a 2.0-liter engine and later models offering a 2.4-liter engine paired with a more advanced transmission. EPA estimates give a rough idea of what to expect, though real-world results vary by driving conditions and equipment.
- 2.0L engine (2013–2015): typically around 24 mpg city and about 34–36 mpg highway; combined in the high 20s to around 29 mpg, depending on transmission and tires.
- 2.4L engine with 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (2016–2022): typically around 25 mpg city and 33–34 mpg highway; combined generally near 29–30 mpg.
- Note: Acura ended ILX production in the U.S. after the 2022 model year, so there are no new ILX models available and mpg figures apply to used examples.
In practical terms, highway driving often yields the best fuel economy, while city commuting and aggressive acceleration can significantly lower mpg.
Real-world considerations and tips
Several factors influence actual fuel economy beyond the official EPA numbers. The following points help explain why your mileage can vary and how to optimize it.
- Engine and transmission condition: Regular maintenance, clean air filters, and proper oil changes help maintain efficiency.
- Tire pressure and alignment: Underinflated tires or misalignment increase rolling resistance and reduce mpg.
- Driving style: Smooth acceleration, gradual braking, and steady speeds improve fuel economy over aggressive driving.
- Vehicle load and roof racks: Extra weight and roof cargo increase drag and reduce mpg, especially at highway speeds.
- Climate control usage: Air conditioning can lower mpg in hot weather; using it judiciously helps, especially on longer highway trips.
- Fuel quality and altitude: Fuel grade and driving at high altitude can affect performance and efficiency.
Bottom line: real-world mpg depends on how you drive and how well the car is maintained. The numbers you see from the EPA are a baseline, not a guarantee for every trip.
Shopping and ownership notes
Is there a new ILX on the horizon?
As of now, Acura has not reintroduced the ILX in recent years, and the model was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2022 model year. Shoppers looking for ILX today will predominantly encounter used examples, where mpg can vary by year, trim, transmission, and condition.
When evaluating a used ILX, check the specific EPA rating for the exact year and trim, review maintenance history, and verify that the transmission (especially the 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission in later models) is functioning smoothly, as maintenance and repair costs can influence overall ownership efficiency.
Summary
The Acura ILX delivers respectable fuel economy for its class, with typical combined mpg around the high 20s to about 30 mpg depending on generation and drivetrain. Real-world mileage depends on driving style, maintenance, and conditions. Since new ILXs are no longer produced, buyers should rely on used-model data, verify the exact EPA rating for the specific year, and consider maintenance history when evaluating long-term fuel efficiency.
