Acura gives its ILX 2019 the metamorphosis it needs

Acura's entry-level model, the compact ILX sedan, has been with us since 2012 as a 2013 model car, so the first-generation ILX is certainly late, if not a complete replacement for the second generation. Instead of doing this last one, Acura did the first one. Say hello to the fully updated Acura ILX 2019 sedan.

The Acura ILX 2019, like the original, is based on the ninth generation of the Honda Civic. It receives a long list of revisions, one of which is a much more elegant and much more attractive exterior design.

The original ILX was always a little disappointing to the eyes. But the latest model addresses this problem by incorporating many of the latest Acura Precision-inspired design elements, which are also found on newer models such as the RDX, MDX, and TLX.

They include a much more aggressive front end that incorporates Acura's latest "diamond-pentagon" grille and seven-element LED matrix jewel headlights. What really sets the new ILX apart from the original model is the introduction of the A-Spec variant. The Acura ILX A-Spec 2019, like the other A-Spec models, benefits mainly from sportier exterior and interior designs, such as a significantly more aggressive and distinctive exterior body kit, Shark Gray rims and a trunk. . spout with spout. Inside, unique colors, available only in the A-Spec package, are associated with a shaded liner and an ultrasonic liner.

There's also a new dashboard design and a dual-display multi-use display (ODMD 2.0) infotainment interface on demand and more responsive with the usual Apple CarPlay integration. and Android Auto. The latest line of AcuraWatch equipment is complemented by the latest AcuraWatch series, which includes as standard all available assistive and safety technologies for active and passive drivers. You'll find automatic braking with collision warning, Lane Keeping Assist with lane departure warning and a radar-guided cruise control.

Under the hood is the same 2.0-liter gasoline four-cylinder engine as the original model, with 201 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic dual clutch.

Acura has not yet announced the official pricing for ILX for 2019. But the new Acura ILX 2019 will start hitting local dealers in late October.