2013 Acura ILX Tech Hybrid…Boldly Going…Farther!

acura_ilx_hybrid_thumb307_-1Acura, the luxury division of Honda has thrown their proverbial hat into the upscale hybrid ring with the ILX Hybrid.  Without braking the bank [MRSP $35,295], the ILX offers style, value and less carbon footprints…a win-win. While there are sprinklings of Honda’s DNA, the ILX Hybrid stands on its own merits.

Visually, the ILX Hybrid has smooth edges, a sexy crease that cascades into the smirk of the front chrome grille and sleek lines that fall off into the rear fascias. Subtle chrome and body color accents and cat-like Xenon HID Headlights add a quiet dignity to the exterior of the ILX Hybrid.

2013-acura-ilx-hybrid-engineThe ride of the ILX Hybrid is on par with Acura reputation for performance and superb handling. The 111 hp, 1.5-liter SOHC 8-Valve i-VTEC 4-Cylinder engine with integrated Motor Assist and Idle Stop features not only goes that extra mile, it gives you extra miles with a combined 38 MPG. The kick out of the gate is just enough to get the job done. While you might not make Jeff Gordon break out in a cold sweat on the track, you’ll definitely go farther and look more elegant doing so. The “get it done package” of MacPhearson Strut Front Suspension, Rear Multi-Link Suspension, Rack-and-Pinion Steering navigated through hair pen and winding turns as smooth as butter.

2013_acura_ilxhybrid_int_thumb307_-1The interior of the ILX Hybrid has not gone the way of a Birkenstock-esque vibe…substance without style, but instead it holds on to luxury with both hands.  Leather trimmings at every nook and cranny, 8-way Power Sport Seats, (the front seats are heated), Power Tilting Moonroof and illuminating accent lights offer an elegant riding experience.

The sexy extras of the Tech Package are where this luxury hybrid sedan sets its self apart from the pack.  Acura, known for cutting-edge technology didn’t hold back the goodies with their latest foray into the luxury hybrid segment. The ILX Hybrid kind of reminds you of that sexy nerd, classically handsome and on top of the latest gadgets. Naturally, the first point of interest for me is the Acura/ELS Surround Sound system.  R&B classics from Marvin Gaye and Earth, Wind & Fire bellowed out of 10 Speakers with pin drop clarity. From the booming bottoms to the goose bump rendering highs, the audio system with Dolby Pro Logic II satisfied this music lover’s every audible desire. The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition keeps you focus on the road and not fumbling around the console. Another cool feature was the Auto Climate Control with Air Filtration, which offered a much-needed respite from a funky bit of roadway near a horse farm.  The AcuraLink Communication System with Real-Time Traffic and Weather provided current updates to avoid the unnecessary parking lot…otherwise known as the heinous Los Angeles traffic.

All in all, the Acura ILX Hybrid stands out in this luxury hybrid segment.

For more info on the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid and other fine Acura models, click here.

 

Written by The Car Diva