Acura ILX vs Honda Civic: Which Premium Compact Sedan is Right for You?

When searching for an upscale, well-equipped compact sedan, two popular options often come to mind: the Acura ILX and Honda Civic. Both models offer a compelling blend of style, features, and value. However, there are some key differences between the Acura ILX and Honda Civic that shoppers should be aware of.

In this comparison, we'll take an in-depth look at the Acura ILX vs Honda Civic matchup. Our expert analysis will cover everything from performance and fuel economy to interior amenities, safety, and pricing. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of which model best fits your needs and budget.

Acura ILX Overview

The Acura ILX is the gateway model to Honda's premium brand. Positioned as a step above mainstream compact sedans like the Civic, the ILX aims to deliver an elevated driving experience with its sporty dynamics, upscale features, and luxurious appointments.

Key highlights of the Acura ILX include:

• Powerful 2.4L inline-4 engine (201 hp)
• Quick-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
• Available A-Spec sport appearance package
• Premium interior with high-quality materials
• Extensive list of standard tech and safety features

Honda Civic Overview

The Honda Civic is one of the most popular and acclaimed compact cars on the market. Known for its spacious cabin, fuel-efficient engines, and strong value proposition, the Civic appeals to a wide range of buyers.

Notable attributes of the Honda Civic include:

• Choice of 2.0L and turbocharged 1.5L engines
• Available continuously variable transmission (CVT) or 6-speed manual
• Roomy and versatile interior
• User-friendly infotainment system
• Strong safety ratings and driver-assistance tech

Exterior Design & Dimensions

Acura ILX

The Acura ILX features a sleek, angular design that conveys its sporty intentions. The brand's signature diamond pentagon grille, LED headlights, and aggressive lower air intakes give the ILX an unmistakably premium look.

In terms of size, the ILX measures:

Dimension	Measurement
Length	182.2 inches
Width	70.6 inches
Height	55.6 inches
Wheelbase	105.1 inches

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic boasts a modern, sophisticated exterior that's both stylish and aerodynamic. The latest generation features a low, wide stance, a bold front fascia, and distinctive C-shaped LED taillights.

Civic dimensions:

Dimension	Measurement
Length	184.0 inches
Width	70.9 inches
Height	55.7 inches
Wheelbase	107.1 inches

The Civic is slightly larger overall compared to the ILX, most notably in wheelbase which translates to increased passenger space.

>> View more: Honda NSX vs Acura NSX

Performance

Acura ILX Engine & Transmission

All Acura ILX models are powered by a high-output 2.4-liter inline-4 engine producing 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. This is paired with a quick-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

The ILX's drivetrain delivers brisk acceleration and a sporty driving character. Acura's Amplitude Reactive Dampers and motion-adaptive electric power steering further enhance the ILX's engaging road manners.

Honda Civic Engines & Transmissions

The Honda Civic offers two engine choices:

1. Standard 2.0-liter inline-4 with 158 hp and 138 lb-ft (LX, Sport trims)
2. Turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-4 with 174-180 hp and 162-177 lb-ft (EX, Touring trims)

A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard on most trims, while a 6-speed manual is available on certain Civic models for drivers who prefer more control.

The Civic's turbocharged engine option provides peppy performance. However, the ILX's larger displacement naturally aspirated engine has the edge in overall output.

Fuel Economy

Here's how the Acura ILX and Honda Civic compare in EPA-estimated fuel economy:

Model	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG
Acura ILX	24	34	28
Honda Civic (2.0L)	30-31	37-40	33-35
Honda Civic (1.5L Turbo)	30-32	37-42	33-36

The Civic has a clear advantage in fuel efficiency, especially when equipped with the 1.5L turbo and CVT. This is mainly due to the Civic's smaller displacement engines and more efficiency-focused transmissions compared to the ILX's performance-tuned powertrain.

Interior

Acura ILX Cabin

The Acura ILX features a well-crafted interior with upscale materials and a long list of standard amenities. Highlights include:

• Leatherette-trimmed sport seats with heating
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Keyless access with push-button start
• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• 7-speaker audio system

Available upgrades include full leather seating, GPS-linked climate control, a 10-speaker premium audio system, and more. The A-Spec package adds unique interior trim and styling elements.

Honda Civic Interior

Inside, the Honda Civic provides a spacious, modern cabin with logically arranged controls and good outward visibility. Notable features include:

• Cloth or leather upholstery
• 60/40 split-folding rear seat
• Multi-angle rearview camera
• 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen infotainment
• 8-10 speaker audio system

Higher trims gain amenities like power front seats, dual-zone climate control, and an upgraded infotainment interface. While not as luxurious as the ILX, the Civic still has a pleasant interior environment.

>> View more: Acura TLX vs Infiniti Q50

Passenger & Cargo Space

Here's how the ILX and Civic measure up in terms of interior dimensions:

Model	Front Headroom	Front Legroom	Rear Legroom	Cargo Volume
Acura ILX	38.0 in	42.3 in	34.0 in	12.4 cu ft
Honda Civic Sedan	39.3 in	42.3 in	37.4 in	14.8 cu ft

Despite being classified in the same compact segment, the Civic offers a bit more passenger and cargo room compared to the ILX, particularly in the rear seat and trunk.

Safety

Acura ILX Safety Features

The Acura ILX comes standard with AcuraWatch, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems that includes:

• Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning with lane keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Road departure mitigation

Additional standard safety features consist of a multi-view rear camera, Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control, and a full array of airbags.

Honda Civic Safety Technology

Every Honda Civic also boasts an extensive roster of safety and driver-aid technologies, such as:

• Honda Sensing (forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, etc.)
• Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• LED daytime running lights

Thanks to their strong crash test performance and comprehensive safety features, both the ILX and Civic have earned top marks from the IIHS and NHTSA in various impact protection categories.

Pricing & Value

Acura ILX Cost & Trims

The 2023 Acura ILX starts at $28,900 for the base trim and ranges up to $34,400 for a top-of-the-line A-Spec with Technology Package.

Available ILX trim levels include:

• ILX (base)
• ILX with Premium Package
• ILX with Technology Package
• ILX A-Spec with Premium Package
• ILX A-Spec with Technology Package

Honda Civic Pricing & Variants

2023 Honda Civic sedan pricing begins at $24,650 for a base LX model and can reach $30,450 for an uplevel Touring trim.

Civic sedan trim levels consist of:

• LX
• Sport
• EX
• Touring

While the ILX has a higher starting price, it does come standard with some luxury-oriented features that are optional or not available on the Civic. However, a fully-loaded Civic Touring still costs several thousand less than a range-topping ILX A-Spec with Technology Package.

Acura ILX vs Honda Civic: Key Differences

Now that we've analyzed all the core aspects of the Acura ILX vs Honda Civic comparison, let's recap the primary differences between these two compact sedans:

Performance

• The ILX has a more powerful standard engine (201 hp 2.4L) vs the Civic's base 158 hp 2.0L
• ILX uses an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic, Civic has a CVT or manual transmission
• Civic offers an optional turbocharged engine with up to 180 hp

Fuel Economy

• Civic achieves significantly higher EPA-estimated MPG ratings in city/hwy/combined
• ILX's larger displacement engine and performance focus impact efficiency

>> View more: Acura Integra vs Honda Civic

Interior & Space

• ILX provides a more premium cabin with additional standard luxury features
• Civic has a roomier interior, especially in the rear seats and trunk
• Both include user-friendly infotainment with smartphone integration

Safety

• ILX and Civic come standard with AcuraWatch/Honda Sensing safety suites
• Each model receives excellent crash test safety ratings
• Blind-spot monitoring is available on Civic but not ILX

Value & Pricing

• 2023 ILX pricing ranges from $28,900 - $34,400
• 2023 Civic sedan starts at $24,650 and tops out at $30,450
• Civic generally offers more features per dollar
• ILX includes some standard luxury amenities not available on Civic

Conclusion

Choosing between the Acura ILX and Honda Civic ultimately depends on your priorities. If you're looking for a compact sedan with a decidedly premium feel, sportier performance, and an extensive list of luxury features, the ILX is a compelling choice. It delivers an elevated driving experience compared to the average mainstream small car.

On the other hand, if maximum interior space, fuel efficiency, and value are your main concerns, the Honda Civic is tough to beat. While not as upscale as the ILX, the Civic still impresses with its refined driving dynamics, feature-rich cabin, and strong safety credentials. It remains one of the benchmarks in the compact sedan segment.

Regardless of which model you choose, both the Acura ILX and Honda Civic offer the quality, reliability, and advanced features that Honda and Acura are known for. Be sure to thoroughly test drive each vehicle to determine which best matches your lifestyle needs and budget.