The 2016 Acura Ilx stands as a compelling entry-level luxury sedan, blending sporty performance with sophisticated features. This model year offers a significant upgrade, particularly under the hood, making it a noteworthy option for those seeking a premium driving experience without compromising on efficiency and technology. Let’s delve into the comprehensive specifications that define the 2016 Acura ILX.
Engine and Performance Dynamics
At the heart of the 2016 Acura ILX lies a robust 2.4-liter direct-injection 4-cylinder engine. This powertrain delivers a spirited 201 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 180 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm, ensuring responsive acceleration and ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. The engine features a 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC® valvetrain and a high compression ratio of 11.6:1, contributing to its efficiency and performance. The drive-by-wire throttle system further enhances the responsiveness, providing a direct connection between driver input and engine output. Furthermore, the 2016 ILX achieves a ULEV-3 CARB emissions rating, reflecting its environmentally conscious design. Acura confidently states a tune-up interval of 100k +/- miles with no scheduled tune-ups, highlighting the engine’s reliability and low maintenance requirements.
Drivetrain and Transmission
The 2016 Acura ILX is exclusively front-wheel drive, paired with an advanced 8-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) that incorporates a torque converter. This sophisticated transmission provides quick and seamless gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. For a more engaging driving experience, Sequential SportShift paddle shifters are standard, allowing drivers to take manual control of gear selection. The gear ratios are meticulously engineered, ranging from a 3.08 first gear for brisk launches to a 0.48 eighth gear for relaxed and efficient highway driving. The final drive ratio is set at 3.94, optimizing the balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Suspension and Chassis
The chassis of the 2016 Acura ILX is engineered for a comfortable yet engaging ride. It features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, a combination that effectively balances handling precision and ride comfort. Stabilizer bars, measuring 20.0 mm at the front and 15.0 mm at the rear, help to minimize body roll during cornering. Amplitude Reactive Dampers are incorporated to adjust damping force based on road conditions, further refining the ride quality. The Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering (EPS) system provides precise and responsive steering feel, while the ventilated front disc brakes (12.3 inches) and solid rear disc brakes (11.1 inches) deliver confident stopping power. The 2016 ILX comes standard with 17 x 7.0 noise-reducing aluminum alloy wheels, wrapped in P215/45 R17 high-performance all-season tires. The A-SPEC® variant enhances the sporty aesthetic with 18 x 7.5 machine-finished noise-reducing aluminum alloy wheels and larger 225/40 R18 high-performance all-season tires. The steering ratio is 15.3, and the turning diameter (curb to curb) is 36.8 feet, offering good maneuverability in urban environments.
Exterior and Interior Dimensions
The 2016 Acura ILX presents a sleek and compact exterior profile while offering a surprisingly spacious interior. The wheelbase measures 105.1 inches, with an overall length of 181.9 inches, a height of 55.6 inches, and a width of 70.6 inches. The track width is 59.4 inches at the front and 60.2 inches at the rear. The ground clearance is 5.3 inches (unladen). Inside, the ILX provides ample headroom with 38.0 inches in the front and 35.9 inches in the rear. Legroom is generous in the front at 42.3 inches, while rear legroom is 34.0 inches. Shoulder room measures 55.6 inches in the front and 53.5 inches in the rear, and hiproom is 50.3 inches in the front and 51.7 inches in the rear. The EPA passenger volume is 89.3 cubic feet, and the EPA cargo volume is 12.3 cubic feet, providing practical space for passengers and luggage.
Fuel Economy, Capacities, and Weights
The 2016 Acura ILX is designed for efficiency, achieving EPA fuel economy ratings of 25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined. It is recommended to use premium unleaded 91 octane fuel. The fuel tank capacity is 13.2 U.S. gallons. The curb weight varies slightly depending on the trim level and options, ranging from 3093 lbs to 3137 lbs. The weight distribution is 63% front and 37% rear, contributing to its front-wheel-drive handling characteristics.
Safety and Driver-Assistive Technology
Acura prioritizes safety, and the 2016 ILX is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. Depending on the package (AcuraWatch Plus, Premium, Technology Plus), features include Forward Collision Warning (FCW) System, Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) System, Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), and Road Departure Mitigation System. Blind spot information (BSI) System and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor are available with the Premium and Technology Plus Packages. A Multi-View Rear Camera is standard, with Dynamic Guidelines added in the Technology Plus Package. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure enhances crashworthiness. Standard airbags include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags (SRS), front side airbags, and side curtain airbags. Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control and Motion Adaptive Steering, 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist are also standard. LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with Location and Pressure Indicators, Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, and a Theft-Deterrent System with Electronic Immobilizer further contribute to safety and security.
Driver Convenience, Audio, and Connectivity
The 2016 Acura ILX offers a range of convenience, audio, and connectivity features to enhance the driving experience. Hill Start Assist and Cruise Control are standard, with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) available with AcuraWatch Plus and Technology Plus Packages. Auto-On/Off Headlight Operation with Wiper Integration and Heated Side Mirrors are standard for added convenience. For audio and connectivity, the ILX offers various systems depending on the package, ranging from a 6-speaker Acura Audio System to a premium Acura/ELS Studio® Premium Audio System with 10 speakers. Features include Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, USB Audio Interface with iPod® Integration, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio, and MP3/Auxiliary Input Jack. Higher trim levels add features like iPhone® AcuraLink® Navigation App Connectivity, Acura Navigation System with 3D View, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic™, Siri® Eyes Free, SMS, MMS Text Message Capability, On Demand Multi-Use Display™ (ODMD™), HD Radio®, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, Pandora® Compatibility, HomeLink®, and Compass.
Interior and Exterior Features
Inside, the 2016 ILX boasts a well-appointed cabin with standard Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control, Keyless Access System with Acura Personalized Settings, Pushbutton Ignition, and Sport Seats with Leatherette-Trimmed Interior. Higher trims offer Sport Seats with Perforated Leather-Trimmed Interior or Ebony Suede-Trimmed Interior (A-SPEC). A Driver’s 8-Way Power Seat and Heated Front Seats are standard, with a Front Passenger’s 4-Way Power Seat added in Premium and Technology Plus Packages. A Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel and Shift Knob, Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls, and Ambient Cabin Lighting are standard. The A-SPEC trim adds Aluminum Sport Pedals and Ebony Headliner. Exterior features include Jewel Eye® LED Headlights, LED-Illuminated Taillights, and Acoustic Glass Windshield as standard. A Power Moonroof is also available, and the A-SPEC trim adds Fog Lights, Body-Colored Trunk Spoiler, and Body-Colored Side Sills.
2016 ILX Colors
The 2016 Acura ILX is available in a range of exterior and interior colors to suit personal preferences. Exterior color options include Bellanova White Pearl, Slate Silver Metallic, Graphite Luster Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Catalina Blue Pearl, and Basque Red Pearl II. Interior options vary by exterior color and trim level, including Ebony, Parchment, and Graystone in leatherette or leather-trimmed materials, and Ebony suede for the A-SPEC trim.
In conclusion, the 2016 Acura ILX presents a compelling package of performance, luxury, technology, and safety in the entry-level luxury sedan segment. Its upgraded engine, refined transmission, and comprehensive feature set make it a strong contender for discerning buyers.
