The hybrid continues Honda’s electric-motor boost system that differs from Toyota’s more-frugal hybrid design. Honda’s setup increases both city and highway mileage about equally, at an EPA-estimated 35 city and 38 highway, with stop-start engine management that is seamless and hardly noticeable.

ILX has clean, aerodynamic styling with the roofline of a coupe. (Photo: Acura)

Acceleration is modest, so you’ll have to decide whether the rise in fuel mileage justifies the compromise in drivability. Not that the 2- or 2.4-liter versions are all that thirsty, EPA-rated at 24 city/32 highway and 20 city/29 highway, respectively.

ILX has a nice, clean “coupe-like” look with some interesting contours on its flanks. The controversial “beaked” grille treatment of previous Acuras has been tamed into something more refined but still distinctive.

The interior is really the star here, luxurious and roomy with available leather and brushed-silver accents, and a full boat of premium features. Really, at this price point, there is quite a bit of luxury content. There’s enough space for five despite the car’s small dimensions, and the rear seatback folds to expand trunk space, except in the hybrid where the battery pack would get in the way.

The accommodating interior boasts leather seating in the 2.4-liter model and Premium versions of the 2-liter and hybrid cars. (Photo Acura)

The interior design and materials inside the ILX are right up to Acura standards, which are quite high, and compare well with Acura’s flagship RL at a fraction of the price.

Pricing is not bad, important since ILX targets younger buyers who are not exactly flush with cash these days. The 2-liter base model starts at $25,900, the 2.4-liter model at $29,200 and the hybrid at $28,900. The Technology Package available only for the 2-liter and the hybrid adds a significant $5,500.

Acura’s first entry-level sedan in a number of years delivers on the promise of near-luxury accommodations at a fairly reasonable price with a good range of models, although driving enthusiasts might find that it lacks the sharp response that can make a small sedan so much fun to drive.

Bob Golfen, Automotive Editor for SPEED.com, is a veteran auto writer based in Phoenix, Arizona, with a passion for collector cars, car culture and the automotive lifestyle. SPEED.com fans can email Bob Golfen at