2019 Acura ILX

Most Acuras are more luxurious and higher-priced versions of vehicles made by Honda, its parent company, similar to Lexus and Toyota or Infiniti and Nissan. In Acura’s case, the formula usually works well. Its sedans and SUVs have earned Consumer Reports’ recommendations for cabin comfort, handling, above-average reliability, and engines with smooth power delivery. Like Honda, Acura’s lineup is mainly SUVs, but includes some sedans. The Integra is an upgraded version of the Honda Civic, and competes with the most affordable vehicles from manufacturers like Audi and BMW. The TLX is similar, but slightly larger and more expensive. Acura’s SUVs range from midsized and three-row down to compact and two-row. Across the lineup, fuel economy is usually average. Despite Honda’s success with the technology, Acura sells no hybrids. For both new and used, reliability can vary between models, but the better options often near the top of our rankings.

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.