2019 Acura ILX A-Spec - The Dual Clutch Civic Si?

I think that Acura is beautiful. I honestly might get it

Great exterior. Interior is dated

What the hell does Acura have against rear LED turn signals??

Old school mechanical e-brake is a major plus.

I love talky engines. Some noise, some great vibrations. I like hear and feeling the engine work

I appreciate the honesty in your reviews.

Thank you for reviewing this car. This vehicle is on my shortlist atm, and the in-depth coverage and comparisons have brought me a step closer to the most appropriate vehicle for me.

You, Alex on Autos, and Savagegeese are my go-to car reviewers. Keep up the great work!

I don't get why anyone would pay $32k for this over an Accord Sport 2.0T for $30k. You could almost get a full spec Accord touring for the ILX price, and the Accord has a way nicer interior, way more power, bigger, and just nicer overall. Acura really needs to up their game.

Great review. Great point about the comparable sized competitors. You're either jumping up $10-20k for them or you're driving a $20k Corolla or Civic. While the cheaper counter options are well optioned, they're simply not the premium look some desire. It's a tough choice cause the ILX is definitely dated in many aspects but it still carries a premium look.

To everyone saying the interior is dated: Find me another luxury car with a DCT, that’s as quiet as this, that has 200 horsepower from a naturally aspirated large displacement 4 cyl, and that comes standard with leather seats for $27,000.

Love that this car retains that k24 motor. Would be amazing if that dct had lsd. 6 speed manual with lsd would have been nice option as well

Thank goodness, they used the 2.4L engine.

Thank you for another awesome review, as always, especially of this car. I view many channels, but this is my number 1 favorite for polished, comprehensive reviews.
I love this car for several reasons. I was raised old school GM from way back, with 3 Buicks, and 3 Chevys, including a 1984 GN, and 2006 Impala SS, that were great, but all had reliability and other problems. My last Chevy I downsized to a 2911 Cruze RS with half the HP, and bring a decent car, I found is was a lemon because of the engine and transmission, but now prefer smaller vehicles, and converted to imports.
I wanted the current Honda Civic Sport Hatchback, but now would rather get the new Civic Sport Sedan for about the same price because it's much better equipped, including the infotainment system, and though has 20 less HP than the turbo, is much more reliable, and offers the 6 speed to bypass the CVT dependability, though Honda does not have the history of CVT problems of other brands I will not mention here. But I will probably get the new HR-V Sport, for everyday utility that I may need.
But when I can afford it, I still would have liked the Civic Sport Sedan as a second car.
But now, if I have the resources, this 2019 ILX A Spec has almost everything I want, and I am wiing to spend the money for it when I have the resources. I spent just as much or more than this on my 2006 Impala SS.
With all the packages and factory accessories, it comes out to almost $37K plus dealer scalping fees, but has all the goodies.
I wish it was on the new Honda Civic platform, and the steering could have a more stiffer feel, but the performance, sound and reliability of the non turbo Vtec engine and DCT Trumps the 2.0L and CVT for the visceral performance satisfaction tion I have gone without so long.
I don't mind the noise and roughness you mentioned. It is a performance sport luxury car, so not expected to be as smooth, being essentially a previous gen Si with a DCT and all the bells and whistles. The engine and transmission has equivalent power and performance, but more durability than the turbo, and a decent reliability for an automatic, which I prefer over a 6 speed manual. I want an Apex Blue Pearl A Spec with the ebony black interior. They have a few right now here at the Honolulu Acura dealership with both color interiors in blue, but I am not ready for it, and it lacks one thing that made me really put this car as my #1 favorite car now. The technology package with the highly acclaimed ELS audio system. Bring an avid music enthusiast, audiophile, musicians and sound tech of sorts, this is the epitome of what I could get, and with a CD player and auxiliary audio input!
Besides the size of the vehicle, it is the most affordable Acura to get the ELS system with all the other things, without all the other advanced features of the TLX and others models that could have problems down the road.
That is why I like this, instead of the Turbo engine and all the other tech features. The rear fold down seat in one piece us fine, since I usually fold both sides down when I do, and I am only 5'6" and hardly would have rear passengers most of the time, so the less room than the newer Civics is fine for me. And I am glad Acura trashed that previous ugly grill in a their models. This car looks great, except I forgot to add when you mentioned about the single exhaust tip, but that's okay for a smaller engine like this. I believe it was the same for the older RSX and TSX.

Man I saw every bit of that pearl coat in the paint....beautiful this s9 video quality is the best

Have this exact car but a 2020 and it was very hard to find a 2020 white exterior red interior a spec package and it’s beautiful and amazing to drive and completely changes the car in sport mode. I searched for a long time for my first car and this was the best choice ever

Sofyan is on the roll with new videos I love that that's why I'm only subscribe to him the best reviews

Keep in mind that an old platform and parts and pieces are proven and reliable, this and a new grill is why I'm and my wife are looking at Acura now.

I bought a 2022 ILX Premium A-spec in January of 2023. Lightly used with 6500 miles. Love the car. Nothing not to like. One of the deciding factors for me was the chuckle that came out of your mouth as you were driving at 18:40 ish on this video. That is a testimonial to the pleasure that this car brings that can't be put in to words. You do good work, and I enjoy the stats and your honest opinions, but that window to your emotion when driving this vehicle was the most swaying part of this video. Keep up the good work!

Great video. Thank you very much. I have been thinking about purchasing a ILX in the future.

Exterior looks great! I like the new design language. The interior is meh. But the NA 2.4L VTEC 8speed dual clutch sounds fun.

Ah. That VTEC crossover. Honda/Acura should keep that alive. The 1.5T and 2.0T lack character.

So glad you reviewed this

Couldn’t wait for this video, killing it man keep up the work , even tho your somewhat bias but love the way you review with detail

I believe that Acura is waiting for the eleventh gen Civic to come out so that they can base the next gen ILX's platform on that vehicle, so this 2019 refresh is a stopgap of sorts especially with that starting price at $25,900. I personally think it's a pretty sweet deal considering since Acura offers some incentives to help this thing sell. Great review as always Sofyan!

Love my 2016 Aspec. I wanted a slightly upscale DCT Civic Si...so this car is perfect for me. The interior is a bit dated as he mentioned, but it is very functional and the black leather with suede inserts looks pretty good imo. I see this car as being for someone like myself who grew up driving Civic Si's and likes the NA engines and reliability. I wouldnt really put this in the same class as the entry level Benz or Audi though.

You really do a good job with these reviews!

Keep up your great work Sofyan, you might be my new favorite youtuber in terms of car reviews.
😄🖒
Also will you review the Volvo XC40 and/or Volvo V90 in the near future?

13:08 sofyan ignoring the homeless guy😂😂😂

He said the door doesn’t sound good. 😂 as long as it closes that’s I care about.

I've owned the same car for 2.5 years now - I can honestly say it feels the same as my 87 BMW M5 that I bought new and drove for 10 years and 75,000 miles - also exact same exterior dimensions - certainly not as FAST as today's models, but yet it's certainly quik enough for me for Street Driving - yes it does have the Manual Handbrake - also still has a nice CD Player - I turn off most of the elect nannies and drive it in S/Paddlshft Mode most of the time, so I don't miss the Manual that much - Larry

Very informative video , keep up the good work

ILX Type-S... SH-AWD. That would be sooo fun.

Acura has so much potential to challenge the competition ! Lengthen the wheelbase 3 inches for more backseat room & add,
-torque vectoring
-adaptive dampers w/ double wishbone susp
- get the hp up to 250
-pano roof and cooled seats
- 2019 infotainment
- true dual exhausts
-4ws
-rename it the Vigor
Great job on the vids Soyfan. You've come a long way man 👍🏽👍🏽👌🏾👍🏽. Looks like the end of the vlog was filmed on Eisenhower Ave !

Thanks for having the specs while you're showing the engine.

FINALLY, THE REVIEW IVE BEEN WITING FOR!

I would buy this car just for the engine. Last of the classic high revving screamers from Honda/Acura. The transmission seems good too.

I like the single exhaust set up

This seriously looks good. Love it

Very detailed I appreciate you great video

It's so close to being a really good sporty car

Old platform but looks great. Even the 2022 Civic is going back to this style. I've raced Si Civics before and beat them considerably primarily because of the Dual Clutch, it's excellent and fast. I’m sure a full new model is on the way.

I am not an acura fan but this shit right here im gonna buy next year its just too sexy

While this car may be so old school... imagine Acura getting their hands on Type R engine, chassis, and suspension for next gen ILX... it could very well be the revival of Integra Type R. Oh hell I don't mind ILX Type R name if it comes with SH-AWD and slightly higher horsepower than Civic Type R, credit to EK9 and DC2 days.
Just do proper revival and upgrade, and ILX has so much potential to compete with big boys in Germany, Lexus IS, and even the new kid on the block, Genesis G70.
Acura seriously needs to bring ILX up to be the newest and scariest kid on the block...
after writing this and finishing the video, I realized that I literally repeated Sofyan...

Love the red interior

Naturally aspirated any day over turbo.

Thanks for a fair review and not pulling any punches!. I am considering an ILX because of the engine and transmission, looks are ok, interior is kinda cramped though.

Another great review. 👍🏻

ILX is probably the best only car in its class with a naturally aspirated engine that has been proven reliable. Not a fan of digital gauges something about the analog gauge is just a nice change from other brands. But can't wait for the Type S models coming for the TLX,RDX,ILX,MDX with the 3.5 twin turbo v6 with 377hp on the MDX,RDX,TLX and the ILX will be getting the engine that's in the 2019 RDX 2.0 turbo.

LMAO this guy at the end... "I wish they added AWD and a turbo and charged $10k more"

I got mine brand new last year, great fun lil car comfortable and can be sporty.

I love Honda's new design language -- Accord & Civic. It's about time they refresh the outdate Acura line. Nicely done.

I don’t mind the interior. The car in general is gorgeous. It looks better in person trust me it does.

I owned a 2014 ILX with the 2.4 liter and a manual transmission. It was a great car. I’d buy another one with these updates and sharp looks...if they’d stick a 6-speed in it again. I know dual-clutches are great, but no thanks. I’d just rather row my own gears, and Honda’s manuals are among the best.

Cool review in getting me a 2013 ilx manual

I love the shark grey aluminum alloy wheel. It looks great with every color!

I may be in the minority but something about this car is interesting to me. Normally aspirated V-Tec, DSG transmission, relatively lightweight, fairly nice styling. The old school interior appeals to me as I don't really care for tons of tech. Frankly I'd prefer an even more old school option similar to the old RSX Type S.

Another great review Sofyan. I view the ilx as best suited as a used car bargain. The k series 2.4 will run forever. The dual clutch 8 spd is good enough. The interior is super dated ( no touch screen??) But for under $20k used it's a good choice.

I got a 2020 it’s an maxing car the dual screen is helpful on one you can have GPS on one your media playing interior is dated but great and simple . Handles well super fast gas mileage great no complaints

That was the most key fob showing ever. Like damn! 4:30

Crazy question but will they ever make this in a coupe ? I miss the old cl and rsx coupes

that interior looks so dated

With all the criticism I give you in most of your reviews ... I will have to agree with you on this one .... good job

This bad ass car I have mine on 245/40/18 255/35/18 H&R springs handles amazing smashes on a lot cars drop cold hair intake full exhaust reprogram ECU turns u will fall in love with it

I tested this exact model the other day and Sofyan is pretty spot on with his criticisms. It’s incredibly underwhelming for a “premium” brand and doesn’t feel special at all. The ride quality is loud and tinny. I guess because the platform is so old the whole thing just felt very cheap. It doesn’t have so much as 1 feature on a higher spec’d civic, but when I tested a civic sport touring model it felt light years nicer to drive and more modern. The interior and infotainment on the ILX are horrendous, although I did appreciate the red seats. I was also surprised at how small the drivers area is. I’m not even 6 feet tall and my knees were pushing up uncomfortably high. Acura seems to be letting these go for about the same price as an ex-l or sport touring civic, so it might be good for someone who just wants the badge on a budget. But dollar for dollar the current civic (and accord if you’re in the ballpark) are remarkably better vehicles. It’s not even a comparison.

I wish the interior looked as good as the exterior

it looks great!
But DCT doesnt mean faster throttle response. It simply means when changing from ex. 4th to 5th itll shift faster will little to no time being out of gear as a regular torque converted automatic transmission.
Response time can be tuned!
Once again may I say... amazing looking car.

Solid looking car. Good review

I came here only for the sound of the door

Stop hating. I have been driving Honda cars and most of them are good (Accord, Civic, CRV) are perfect cars. The engine, transmission and how long the car will last is better than all the Audi and Mercedes cars he mentioned. Honda engineers are geniuses and all their cars have a special craft that is incomparable for the price. This car will be still on the road driving perfect for 15 years while all those other cars mentioned will need a overhaul. That K24 engine in that car is a beauty and they are one of the greatest engines!

I'm thinking about getting this car next summer. Simple and sweet. Silver will be my choice in color.

Are these Us prices? I'm from Canada and just wondering?Great
Explanation of the ILX. Thank you.

That's a hell of a glove compartment

For those who say the interior is dated. ‘Reliability’

I would love a Acura RSX based on the Type R hatchback. Something that is relatively elegantly styled, has comfy luxurious seats, but is as capable as the Type R would be amazing.

This is just upgraded version of my Honda Accord Sport. I have the K series engine as well. The only thing I wish for is an actual transmission rather than a CVT 😢.

Very old interior, but simple to use and easy to live with ~ I'd be pretty content with this ILX as a commuter car. That 8-speed dual clutch though is one of the best aspects of this car, as it shifts very well and is very responsive.

We need a 2019 Acura TL Type-S with the K20C1 motor found in the Honda Type-R

Good review, makes me wonder why I would even bother to get this over a fully loaded civic

I’m not sold on this one. But that white pearl paint looks amazing.

I love Acura over the years but this is too little too late.

saw one out on the road, thought it looked really sweet

This current ILX was refreshed because of them working on the next gen. Which will probably share the rdx platform. Remember Acura said not to long sgo they are no longer going to share as much with Honda and also materials will be real materials. No more painted plastic.
I think this is a good start with the refresh but excited to see the next gen.

sofan!!! whats up with the nissan key in the armrest?? i know how they look, we sadly have an armada

Disagree on noise and comfort vs a civic. This thing is much quieter, and more comfortable on the road. Yes, it can make it feel a bit soft going into turns, but the dual dampened shocks certainly help when you shift its weight hard. I think its a perfect placement in the market. More refinement than a civic, less expensive than a merc, and if you want to pay the merc price, you can always get a TLX which is bigger, faster, and quieter with some sh-awd action. I'll admit though, the interior looks a bit dated, so if i was to go TLX, it would be the new designed (rumored) 2020 model. Its price to its placement is perfect. You just get a LOT of stuff for your money. Mostly, fun.

As good as the Honda 1.5 liter may be, I'd much rather have the larger displacement engine with the 8 speed DCT. That's why I bought my wife the 2022 ILX A-APEC instead of waiting to get a 2022 Integra. Over the years, the larger displacement engine will prove to have better durability and longevity. On the long run, I didn't experience and sluggishness in the 2.4 and it's DCT. This vehicle is fine as is. All wheel drive would have driven the price up to where maybe from a marketing standpoint, have driven the cost up to a point no one would have wasted their time buying one. The comparison, if all wheel drive would have beenn the Lexus IS and The Suburu WRX. However, in Acura's defense, the object is to get a buyer into the brand and then move them through it. And that is a little harder to do when your entry level model is a little too high and so you start to consider buying a Honda and adding additional upgrades and modifications to it.
Since owning a 1991 Honda Prelude Si, I've owned a 1996 Acura Integra 2 dr. Hatchback LS SE, traded it for a new 2003 CL Type S 6 speed manual and still own it; a new 2010 Acura TL Tech 6MT SH-AWD and after it was totaled, I purchased a new 2019 Acura TLX A-SPEC A-SR. Their pricing has far been better for me than BMW, Lexus, & Infiniti.

finally an ILX that doesnt look boring!

how were you able to use the music? Did you had to pay or was it a royalty free music? thanks

Review the 2019 TLX V6!

Clearly Acura decided to invest its efforts and resources in the 2019 RDX rather than in their "entry level" ILX. It's undeniably attractive and complaints that many of its features are "dated" doesn't mean they're less desirable. Automotive reviewers routinely complain about any feature that has been around for a few model years. That's their job. It doesn't mean that a perfectly functional feature should necessarily be replaced just to be "fashionable." In this case, though, it appears the ILX should be moved to the new Civic's platform. Maybe next year.

What happened to that 2013 Ilx ? How long did you keep it for ?

Gorgeous. Almost as good looking as the Audi A3!

Acura needs to build something from the ground up (finally rdx👍🏻) to really disrupt the compact luxury market. The last true work of art was the 3rd gen TL. Even sharp and modern 15 years later. But then again crossovers are taking over the world.

Love the new looks on the ILX but the platform is dated and the interior is dated but don't forget it's reliable you can't beat Japanese reliability

If this had a manual it would be so awesome!! Among today's boring economy, life-less turbos, and CVTs, I would love a small luxury, high-reving, reliable naturally aspirated sedan with a manual.
Instead of harping on about lower torque and power, we should be praising this "old" engine and petitioning for a manual. As someone who is about to be forty, I cannot see buying a civic, but this is something I could get into.

There are no videos of a modded dct ilx. I wonder how they perform.

The ILX is a really nicely designed car but the interior is a bit dated. If they had the new infotainment system from the RDX It would sell quickly. Although Acura is a really nice car brand

People complaining in the comment section about acura while not even having a car😂

Spot on review

I would buy this car because the price point makes sense for me as a decent daily driver. The linear power of the NA motor and the DC with the torque converter makes it livable. Yes the 2 liter turbo would be nice but I would not miss it since there may be long term issues.