01 2018 Acura ILX Special Edition

2018 Acura ILX Arrives, Special Edition Available

We recently drove the 2018 Acura TLX A-Spec and enjoyed our time behind the wheel. We thought it was comfortable enough for city commuting but snappy enough for the open road. Recently, the 2018 Acura ILX arrived at the dealership and with it, a new Special Edition designation with A-Spec appointments. Acura says the ILX is meant to capture new luxury buyers and serve as a “gateway” to brand’s entire lineup.

Features Galore

Standard equipment on all ILX models includes Acura’s JewelEye LED headlights, an 8-way power driver’s seat, multi-view rearview camera, auto on/off headlights, one-touch power moonroof, a 5-inch Multi-View Display, Bluetooth capability, and push-button start. AcuraWatch, a suite of active safety technologies, is available on all ILX models, but standard when the Tech Plus package is selected.

The ILX Premium trim treats drivers to HD and Aha Radio, an 8-inch upper display, a 7-inch On-Demand Multi-Use Display, and HomeLink among other features.

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Photo: Honda North America.

Premium Feel

The ILX A-Spec trims, Premium and Tech Plus, have a decklid spoiler, front fog lights, 18-inch 10-spoke machined alloy wheels, and exterior A-Spec badging in three locations: left and right front fenders and trunk lid. Acura is going for a lot of curb appeal here with this new look.

The interior is decorated with a Premium Black theme that includes perforated Lux Suede seat inserts. Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the instrument panel’s red background, contrasted with the gray interior stitching and aluminum pedals.

Power & Performance

All 2018 Acura ILX models are propelled by a 2.4-liter direct-injected DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder, creating 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft. of torque. A Sequential SportShift 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission with paddle shifters helps disperse the power. Acura says the transmission is both crisp and responsive with “performance and exceptional efficiency at your fingertips.”

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Photo: Honda North America.

Pricing & Availability

The 2018 Acura ILX is available now with a starting MSRP of $28,100. The new Special Edition, by contrast, begins at $28,900. A handy chart showing the trim levels and corresponding prices is below.

Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan. 

Trim MSRP EPA MPG Rating (city/highway/combined)
ILX $28,100 25/35/29
ILX Special Edition $28,900 25/35/29
ILX AcuraWatch Plus $29,400 25/35/29
ILX Premium $30,100 25/35/29
ILX Premium A-Spec $32,100 25/35/29
ILX Tech Plus $33,100 25/35/29
ILX Tech Plus A-Spec $35,100 25/35/29

2018 Acura ILX Gallery

Photos & Source: Honda North America.