Why is the ILX being discontinued?
Acura, the luxury division of Honda, has announced that it will be discontinuing the ILX sedan after the 2022 model year. The ILX, which has been part of Acura's lineup since 2012, is being phased out as the brand focuses on its SUV and crossover offerings.
Reasons for the ILX Discontinuation
There are several key reasons why Acura has decided to discontinue the ILX:
- Declining Sales: The ILX has struggled to maintain strong sales numbers in recent years, with its sales declining steadily since 2016. This has made it less of a priority for Acura as the brand looks to focus on its more popular and profitable models.
- Shift to SUVs: The automotive industry as a whole has seen a significant shift towards SUVs and crossovers, with consumers increasingly favoring these larger, more versatile vehicles over traditional sedans. Acura has responded to this trend by placing a greater emphasis on its SUV lineup, including models like the RDX and MDX.
- Overlap with Other Models: The ILX has been seen as occupying a somewhat unclear position in Acura's lineup, with some overlap in terms of size and features with the brand's other sedan, the TLX. Discontinuing the ILX allows Acura to streamline its sedan offerings and focus on the TLX as its primary sedan model.
Overall, the discontinuation of the ILX reflects Acura's broader strategic shift towards SUVs and crossovers, as well as the brand's efforts to simplify and strengthen its product lineup.
The ILX's Legacy
Despite its discontinuation, the ILX has left a lasting impact on Acura's history. As the brand's entry-level sedan, the ILX has served as a gateway for many consumers into the Acura lineup, offering a more affordable and accessible option for those seeking a premium, luxury-branded vehicle. The ILX has also been praised for its engaging driving dynamics and well-appointed interior, even if it has struggled to match the sales success of some of Acura's other models.
While the ILX will no longer be part of Acura's future, its legacy as a key player in the brand's lineup over the past decade will not be forgotten.
