Acura ILX Change Vehicle

Sometimes you just can't transcend humble origins. Trying to make a premium model out of the Honda Civic is a fool's errand, as proven by the Acura ILX. Adding projector headlights, power seats, a dual-screen infotainment system, and slapping the Acura badge on the car shouldn't deceive anyone. There is nothing wrong with the concept of providing an upscale experience in a small package, but the ILX's hard ride, loud cabin, and lack of some essential features undermine that goal. Charging $30,000 for the ILX amounts to total chutzpah on Honda's part.

The 2016 model year freshening included a new engine and transmission that made the ILX quicker without hurting fuel economy. It also brought styling cues and interior features to make it appear more congruent with the rest of the Acura line. However, Acura failed to rectify the biggest shortcomings: the stiff, jumpy ride. Despite further efforts to quiet the cabin, it still suffers from so much road noise that a long ride becomes a fatiguing affair. The car's low-slung stance results in difficult cabin access that makes you feel as if you fell into it. Hoisting one's self out is straining, as well.