Why did Acura discontinue ILX?
Acura discontinued the ILX primarily due to weak sales and a strategic pivot to revive the Integra as the brand’s entry-luxury flagship in the compact segment.
The ILX had served as Acura’s smallest sedan since its 2013 introduction, but over time it struggled to attract buyers in a market tightening around modern technology, aggressive styling, and stronger competitor offerings. Faced with an aging platform and rising development costs, Acura chose to retool its entry-level lineup by bringing back the Integra name—an effort to balance heritage appeal with contemporary performance and tech.
ILX in Acura's lineup: a brief history
The ILX arrived for the 2013 model year as Acura’s entry point in the sedan market, built on a Civic-based platform and aimed at delivering a premium feel at a relatively approachable price. While it received periodic updates, the car increasingly showed its age compared with newer rivals and with Acura’s evolving design language and technology suite. By the late 2010s, the ILX had become a niche model within the lineup, contributing modestly to overall brand sales.
Reasons behind the discontinuation
Several factors converged to end the ILX’s run. Below is a look at the core considerations shaping Acura’s decision.
- Weak or declining sales relative to rivals in the compact-luxury segment and to Acura’s better-selling models.
- An aging platform and exterior/interior design that lagged behind modern competitors and newer Acura offerings.
- A strategic shift to consolidate resources toward newer, more competitive models, including a revival of the Integra name.
- A broader branding effort to emphasize sportier, tech-forward entry points, aligning with consumer demand for up-to-date safety features and infotainment.
The decision to discontinue the ILX was framed as part of Acura’s long-term portfolio realignment, intended to refresh the brand’s image and appeal in the entry-luxury space.
Integra revival: how it fits Acura's strategy
In place of the ILX, Acura introduced the Integra as the new entry-point model for the brand. The Integra carries forward a storied name while offering modern tech, improved interior quality, and enhanced driving dynamics. Built on a shared platform with Honda’s Civic, it enables Acura to deliver up-to-date powertrains and features at a competitive price, while positioning the brand more effectively against rivals from Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Lexus in the compact-luxury segment.
The Integra is part of a broader strategy to refresh Acura’s lineup with sportier, value-rich offerings that resonate with contemporary buyers, including Millennials and Gen Z shoppers seeking premium features without sacrificing performance. By reviving a well-known badge, Acura aims to blend nostalgia with modernity and maintain momentum in a crowded market.
What changed for buyers and the market
With the ILX out of production, buyers looking for an Acura entry point now turn to the Integra or other models in the brand’s lineup. The ILX’s used-market presence remains relevant for some shoppers, and ongoing service is available through Acura dealers. The Integra’s arrival signals Acura’s commitment to a more competitive entry-luxury offering and a push to attract new buyers to the brand.
- Consider used ILX models if you prefer its compact footprint, but compare depreciation, maintenance, and available features against newer options.
- For a fresh entry-luxury experience, evaluate the Integra and compare trims, tech, and performance against rival compact sedans and hatchbacks.
- As Acura continues to evolve, watch how the Integra’s reception influences the pace and scope of future small and mid-size models.
In short, the ILX’s discontinuation is part of a strategic refresh aimed at delivering a more compelling, technology-forward entry point for Acura’s lineup, while leveraging a heritage name to attract attention in a competitive market.
Summary
The ILX was retired due to underwhelming sales and an aging design, paired with Acura’s decision to reset its entry-luxury strategy around the Integra—a modern, tech-forward reboot designed to better compete in the compact segment while preserving brand heritage. The Integra represents Acura’s renewed focus on performance, value, and contemporary features at the entry level, signaling a broader evolution of the brand’s lineup.
Is ILX or TLX better?
TLX in terms of pricing, the 2022 Acura ILX is the more budget-friendly option, with a significantly lower starting price than the TLX. However, the TLX compensates with its enhanced power and versatility, appealing to those with a more flexible budget.
Which Acura ILX year to avoid?
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.
Why did Acura stop making the ILX?
The Acura ILX has been discontinued because the company plans to focus on the Acura Integra for the sedan market in the United States. The Acura NSX, on the other hand, has been discontinued due to declining sales and the company's focus on electric vehicles.
What Acura to stay away from?
According to CarComplaints.com, the 2003 model is one of the most problematic Acura TL years, with over 400+ NHTSA user complaints. This car's top three most prominent problems are transmission failure, car shakes during acceleration, and the peeling clear coat.
