Honda Civic Vs Acura Ilx: Which Compact Sedan Is Right For You?

In the realm of compact sedans, two prominent players emerge: the Honda Civic and the Acura ILX. Both vehicles boast impressive features, solid performance, and sleek designs. However, discerning buyers often find themselves torn between these two exceptional offerings. To help you make an informed decision, this comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of the Honda Civic vs Acura ILX, unveiling their strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics.

Performance: A Clash of Power and Efficiency

1. Engine Options and Power:

• Honda Civic: The Civic offers a diverse range of engine options, catering to various driving preferences. The base LX trim features a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more exhilaration, the Civic Si boasts a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that unleashes 205 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque.

• Acura ILX: Under the hood of the Acura ILX lies a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that generates 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivers a refined and responsive driving experience, striking a balance between power and efficiency.

2. Fuel Efficiency:

• Honda Civic: The Civic’s fuel efficiency is commendable, with the LX trim achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city/38 mpg highway. The Civic Hybrid takes it a step further, delivering an impressive 52 mpg city/55 mpg highway.

• Acura ILX: The Acura ILX falls slightly behind in terms of fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city/35 mpg highway. However, it still offers respectable fuel economy for a compact sedan in its class.

Interior: Comfort, Convenience, and Style

1. Cabin Design and Materials:

• Honda Civic: The Civic’s interior exudes a modern and minimalist aesthetic, with clean lines and intuitive controls. The cabin is adorned with high-quality materials, creating a comfortable and upscale ambiance.

• Acura ILX: The ILX’s interior is characterized by its sophisticated design and premium materials. Soft-touch surfaces, ambient lighting, and a user-friendly infotainment system elevate the overall driving experience.

2. Seating and Cargo Space:

• Honda Civic: The Civic provides ample seating space for five passengers, with supportive and well-cushioned seats. The trunk offers 15.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity, making it suitable for everyday errands and occasional road trips.

• Acura ILX: The ILX offers a more spacious cabin, with generous legroom and headroom for all occupants. The trunk space is slightly smaller than the Civic’s, at 12.4 cubic feet, but it still provides adequate cargo capacity for most needs.

Technology and Safety Features: Advanced Innovations for Peace of Mind

1. Infotainment Systems:

• Honda Civic: The Civic features a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity.

• Acura ILX: The ILX boasts a more advanced infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display. It offers a wider range of features, including navigation, voice commands, and a premium audio system.

2. Safety Features:

• Honda Civic: The Civic comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

• Acura ILX: The ILX offers an even more comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane keeping assist.

Driving Dynamics: Handling, Ride Quality, and Performance

1. Handling and Performance:

• Honda Civic: The Civic delivers a sporty and engaging driving experience, with responsive steering, precise handling, and a well-balanced chassis. The Si trim, in particular, offers exhilarating performance with its turbocharged engine and upgraded suspension.

• Acura ILX: The ILX provides a more refined and composed driving experience, with a focus on comfort and stability. It handles well, but it’s not as sporty or engaging as the Civic.

2. Ride Quality:

• Honda Civic: The Civic’s suspension strikes a good balance between sportiness and comfort, providing a smooth ride on most road surfaces. However, some may find the ride quality to be a bit firm at times.

• Acura ILX: The ILX offers a more plush and comfortable ride quality, thanks to its sophisticated suspension system. It absorbs bumps and road imperfections effectively, making it a great choice for long-distance drives.

Pricing and Value: Balancing Cost and Features

1. Base Price:

• Honda Civic: The Honda Civic LX has a starting price of $21,700. The Civic Si starts at $27,300.

• Acura ILX: The Acura ILX has a starting price of $26,900.

2. Features and Value:

• Honda Civic: The Civic offers a compelling value proposition, with a generous list of standard features and a lower price point compared to the ILX.

• Acura ILX: The ILX commands a higher price tag, but it comes with a more luxurious interior, a more powerful engine, and a more comprehensive suite of safety and technology features.

Key Points: Unveiling the Winner

The Honda Civic and Acura ILX are both exceptional compact sedans that cater to different tastes and priorities. The Civic stands out with its sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and affordable price. On the other hand, the ILX offers a more refined driving experience, a more luxurious interior, and a more comprehensive suite of features. Ultimately, the choice between the Honda Civic and Acura ILX depends on individual preferences, driving needs, and budget constraints.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. Which car has better fuel efficiency, the Honda Civic or Acura ILX?

• The Honda Civic offers better fuel efficiency than the Acura ILX, with the Civic Hybrid achieving an impressive 52 mpg city/55 mpg highway.

2. Which car has a more spacious interior, the Honda Civic or Acura ILX?

• The Acura ILX offers a more spacious interior than the Honda Civic, with more legroom and headroom for all occupants.

3. Which car has a more powerful engine, the Honda Civic or Acura ILX?

• The Acura ILX has a more powerful engine than the Honda Civic, with its 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower compared to the Civic’s 158 horsepower.