The ILX is Acura’s first model to offer a hybrid-electric powertrain. (ILX Hybrid uses a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with an integrated 17.2 kilowatt electric motor, a continuously variable transmission as well as a lithium-ion battery pack to capture/store electricity for the electric motor.) The non-hybrid ILX models are powered by either a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder providing 150 horsepower at 6500 rpm, or a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder providing 201 horsepower at 7000 rpm. Acura’s new compact sedan doesn’t shortchange on the standard features. The expansive list of givens includes Pandora internet radio interface, SMS text messaging, Bluetooth technology, USB port with iPod/iPhone compatibility, power tilt/slide moonroof, and automatic on-off headlamps.

ILX’s’s hood and front bumper beam are made of aluminum, while 59% of the body structure uses high strength steels. The test driven ILX (powered by the 150 horsepower/140 pounds-feet of torque 2.0-liter engine mated to a sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission) smoothly responded to accelerator commands, and that on-demand performance complimented a dreamy ride. Exterior sight lines were very good, especially with the driver’s side mirror including a convex element that expands the viewing area by 6.5 degrees. ILX with 2.0-liter engine and 5-speed automatic transmission collects estimated mpg of 24 city and 35 highway. The ILX with Technology Package (which includes navigation with voice recognition) carries an MSRP of $31,400.