What year did Acura make the ILX?

The ILX was introduced as a 2013 model-year car, with its public debut in 2012 and sales starting later that year.

ACURA positioned the ILX as a compact entry-luxury sedan that bridged the brand’s mainstream Civic-derived engineering and its premium styling and equipment. As a new entry in Acura’s lineup, the ILX signaled the marque’s move into the compact luxury segment and served as a stepping stone for buyers seeking premium features in a smaller package.

Timeline of the ILX's Introduction

Key dates surrounding the ILX’s launch and early sales.

• 2012: The ILX is publicly unveiled as a preview of the 2013 model year, with production planned for North American markets.


• 2013: The ILX goes on sale in the United States and Canada as the 2013 model-year sedan.

These milestones reflect the transition from concept to showroom reality for Acura’s entry-luxury compact.

Context and Market Position

The ILX sits on design and engineering threads drawn from Acura’s broader lineup and from Honda’s Civic platform, tailored to deliver a premium compact experience. It was introduced to appeal to buyers who wanted Acura branding, refined electronics, and comfort features in a smaller, more affordable package than the brand’s larger sedans and SUVs.

Early positioning and features

At launch, the ILX emphasized premium touches, a refined interior, and a balance of comfort and efficiency that targeted the entry-luxury segment rather than high-performance segmentation.

Evolution and updates

Over its early years, Acura adjusted the ILX with trim and equipment updates to broaden its appeal, aligning pricing and options with market demand for a practical yet upscale compact sedan.

Summary

In short, Acura introduced the ILX for the 2013 model year, with its official reveal in 2012 and sales beginning later that year. The model represented Acura’s push into the compact luxury space and laid the groundwork for subsequent refinements in its early years. The ILX remained Acura’s entry point in the luxury sedan segment during its run, offering a blend of premium features in a smaller package.

Why did Acura discontinue ILX?

Acura discontinued the ILX to make way for the return of the Integra, which now serves as the brand's new entry-level model. The decision was also influenced by the ILX's declining sales, outdated platform based on a ninth-generation Civic, and dated technology compared to newer models. 
Primary reason

• Replacement by the Acura Integra: The new Integra was introduced as a more modern and sportier alternative to the ILX, filling its role as the entry point to the Acura lineup. 

Contributing factors

• Declining sales: The ILX's sales had been on a downward trend for years, with sales failing to reach 20,000 units annually for a significant period.
• Outdated platform: The ILX was based on the ninth-generation Honda Civic, which was a decade old by the time the ILX was discontinued.
• Dated technology: The ILX featured older infotainment systems and tech compared to more contemporary vehicles in its class, making it less competitive. 

What was the last year of Acura ILX?

The last model year for the Acura ILX was 2022, and it has been replaced by the Acura Integra. The 2022 model featured a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, and it was available in various trims.
 

• Discontinuation: Acura discontinued the ILX after the 2022 model year, with its production ending with the 2022 model year. 
• Replacement: The Acura Integra was brought back as the entry-level luxury sedan for the 2023 model year, effectively taking the ILX's place in the lineup. 
• Final Model Year Specs: The last model, the 2022 ILX, was powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and was available with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. 

What is the best year for Acura ILX?

The best Acura ILX years are often cited as 2016 and later, which received a significant refresh with a more powerful 2.4L engine and an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Other strong contenders include the 2019 model year and later due to the final facelift that brought updated styling and tech, although they are essentially the same car as the years immediately preceding the final facelift. The 2013 and 2014 models are also reliable choices, particularly the 6-speed manual transmission version, but have less power and fewer modern features.
 
2016-2022

• Pros: Updated 2.4L engine with 201 hp and an 8-speed DCT, a stiffer chassis, improved steering, and a refreshed exterior with Jewel Eye headlights. The 2019 model received a final facelift with updated styling and technology. 
• Cons: The interior can feel dated compared to newer cars, especially in the 2016-2018 models. 

2013-2014

• Pros: Reliable and affordable, especially with the 6-speed manual transmission. The hybrid model is fuel-efficient. 
• Cons: Lower horsepower and fewer modern features compared to later models. The 2013 model has a 5-speed automatic transmission, which can feel less modern than later models' transmissions. 

Which one should you choose?

• For a modern experience: Choose a 2016 model or newer for the best blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and technology. 
• For a budget-friendly option: Consider a 2013 or 2014 model if you're looking for the most affordable option and don't mind a less modern interior or fewer features. 
• If you prefer a manual transmission: Stick with a 2013 or 2014 manual model, as this was the only manual option available for this generation. 

What year to stay away from Acura ILX?

However, some years are best avoided due to reliability concerns, and they are:

• 2013 Acura ILX.
• 2014 Acura ILX.
• 2016 Acura ILX.