What is the top speed of the Acura ILX without limiter?
The stock Acura ILX is electronically limited to around 130 mph; without that limiter, a rough range for ungoverned top speed would typically fall in the mid to high 130s or low 140s mph, with exact figures depending on year, engine, and other conditions. Acura does not publish an official ungoverned top speed for the ILX.
How a limiter shapes the ILX’s performance
In modern cars, a speed limiter is an electronic safeguard designed to prevent the vehicle from reaching speeds that could compromise safety, tires, and drivetrain components. The ILX, across most model years, uses this kind of limiter to cap top speed at around 130 mph. When the limiter is removed or disabled, the vehicle could potentially reach higher speeds, but the exact result depends on the engine output, transmission, aerodynamics, tire construction, and road conditions.
Estimating ungoverned top speeds by generation
Below are rough, non-official estimates based on reported performance and typical engine outputs for different ILX generations. These figures are provided for context and are not certified by Acura. Real-world results vary with the vehicle’s condition, configuration, and testing environment.
- 2013–2015 ILX (2.0L i-VTEC, about 150 hp): unofficial ungoverned top speed typically around 125–135 mph; many trims are limited to about 130 mph from the factory.
- 2016–2020 ILX (2.4L i-VTEC, about 201 hp): unofficial ungoverned top speed commonly cited in the mid-130s to about 140 mph; limiter often near 130 mph in US-market models.
- 2021–present ILX (newer variants with varying engines): unofficial estimates generally place ungoverned speeds from the mid-130s to low 140s mph, though US-specs commonly retain a 130 mph limiter.
Note: These numbers are approximate and not officially published by Acura. Factors such as drivetrain (automatic vs. manual, if applicable), tire type, altitude, temperature, and vehicle maintenance significantly affect any ungoverned top speed.
Why the exact figure isn’t published
Automakers typically limit top speed for safety, warranty, and tire performance reasons. While enthusiasts sometimes experiment with removing or bypassing speed governors, doing so can void warranties, violate local laws, and create serious safety risks. For most buyers, the published figures and the governed top speed reflect the practical limits of daily driving.
Practical takeaway
For everyday use, the ILX’s top speed is effectively capped at about 130 mph due to the factory limiter. If someone asks about “without limiter” acceleration or speed, they should understand that ungoverned performance is not officially documented and will differ by year, engine, and condition. Any consideration of testing such speeds should only occur under controlled, legal, and safe environments.
Summary
In brief, the Acura ILX is electronically limited to roughly 130 mph in most configurations. Without that limiter, ungoverned top speeds are not officially published and vary by model year and engine, with estimates generally placing ungoverned speeds in the mid-130s to low-140s mph range. For accurate expectations, consult model-year-specific data and remember that high-speed testing carries significant risk and legal considerations.
How fast can an Acura ILX go?
The top speed of the Acura ILX is an estimated 130 mph. This top speed is achieved across all trim levels for the 2021 and 2022 model years, which are powered by the same 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower.
- Estimated top speed: 130 mph
- Engine: 2.4L 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 201 hp
- Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
- 0-60 mph time: Approximately 6.4 to 6.6 seconds
Which Acura has 500 hp?
ZDX Electric Motors
Featuring an exhilarating nearly 500-HP * with the ability to accelerate from 0-60 in under 5 seconds, * the ZDX Type S is the most powerful Acura SUV ever.
What year to avoid Acura ILX?
The years to be most cautious with the Acura ILX are 2013-2015 due to owner dissatisfaction, weak performance with the base 2.0L engine, and past safety recalls. While later models had improvements, some still faced criticism for stiff ride quality, an outdated interior, and an unintuitive infotainment system.
Years to approach with caution
- 2013-2015: These models are frequently cited for being underperforming, especially with the 2.0L engine, and have had significant recalls related to airbags and headlights. Owner satisfaction ratings for the 2013 model were particularly low.
- General model issues: Even outside of the early years, later models like the 2016-2022 versions faced common complaints regarding a stiff ride, a not-very-refined interior, and an unintuitive dual-screen infotainment system.
Things to consider for later models
- 2016+ improvements: Models from 2016 onwards switched to a single 2.4L engine with a dual-clutch transmission, which offered more power than the earlier base engine.
- Continued drawbacks: Despite the improvements, the stiff ride, and outdated interior remained persistent issues.
- Value proposition: Some reviewers note that while the ILX was often more affordable than its luxury competitors, its overall quality, refinement, and features often fell short of the premium standard set by luxury brands.
How to make a decision
- Test drive thoroughly: Pay close attention to the ride comfort, road noise, and how the infotainment system operates.
- Research specific recalls: Check the NHTSA website for recalls on any specific model year you are considering, as some years had multiple recalls for safety issues.
- Compare to alternatives: Consider if the ILX meets your needs compared to its direct luxury competitors or even its Honda counterparts, as some reviewers felt the newer Honda Civic was a more compelling car.
What is the top speed of the Acura TLX without limiter?
The Acura TLX's top speed without a limiter depends on the trim level. The standard TLX is electronically limited to about 130+ mph, while the TLX Type S is limited to 155 mph. The Type S can exceed 155 mph if the electronic limiter is removed via a tune, with some owners reporting reaching higher speeds, though this requires performance upgrades like better tires and brakes.
This video explains the top speed of the 2023 Acura TLX: 56sBob Howard AcuraYouTube · Jun 13, 2023
- Standard TLX (2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder): Electronically limited to around 130+ mph.
- TLX Type S (3.0L Twin-Turbo V6): Electronically limited to 155 mph. Removing this limiter allows the car to exceed this speed, with some owners reporting speeds over 155 mph after tuning.
- Note: It is crucial to have proper upgrades like tires and brakes before attempting to reach higher speeds, and this should only be done on a closed course with extreme caution.
