Acura ILX

Facing modest sales and negative reviews, Acura made extensive changes to their entry-level luxury compact for 2016. Engine choices shrank to one, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder mated to a standard dual-clutch transmission, which is clunky and reluctant to downshift. As in other Acuras, the dual-screen infotainment system proved unintuitive to use. More luxury features were added, and the optional AcuraWatch system included forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Handling is sound, but the ride is stiff and choppy, road noise is pronounced, and the driver's seat lacks lower back support, all of which undermine the ILX's pretense of affordable luxury. While the ILX is based on the previous-generation Honda Civic, the redesigned-for-2016 Civic proves to be a more fulfilling and enjoyable car than the Acura.

Acura's entry-level luxury compact sedan shares its underpinnings with the Honda Civic, but it has different suspension tuning, as well as fancier features and nicer interior materials. Three four-cylinder engines were available: a 2.0-liter base, 1.5-liter hybrid, and a high-revving 2.4-liter four that was mated solely to a six-speed manual. The base engine and five-speed automatic are refined and economical but acceleration is uninspiring. Controls were simple enough, especially without the navigation system, and the rear seat was spacious for a compact sedan. The ILX offered limited variations; the Premium package added HID headlights and satellite radio, while the Technology package threw in navigation and an upgraded ELS surround audio system. Model year 2014 saw the addition of heated leather seats and active noise cancellation. Handling is sound, but the ride is choppy and road noise is pronounced, undermining this Acura's "affordable luxury" promise.