Redesigned, reengineered and resurrected, the 2016 Acura ILX made its world debut today at the 2014 L.A. Auto Show raising the stakes for competitors including the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class. Taking note of the TLX’s success, the 2016 ILX is packed with serious performance upgrades, including a new 201-horsepower, direct-injected i-VTEC engine and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), and the same engine and transmission technology found in the TLX.
 
Replacing the 2.0-liter engine, all 2016 ILX models come equipped with a 2.4-liter, 16-valve, direct-injected DOHC i-VTEC engine that produces 201 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft. of torque. The new engine is coupled with an 8-speed DCT with torque converter and paddle-controlled Sequential Sport Shift. According to the official press release, the 2016 ILX is said to have “the most advanced transmission in its competitive set, delivering incredibly quick, crisp and intuitive gear changes, including rev-matching down shifts, to achieve outstanding response and sporting performance with top-class fuel efficiency.” Equipped with the world’s first DCT with a torque converter, the 8-speed DCT provides impressive torque multiplication for smoother, more forceful launches.
 
The 2016 ILX also received some new style upgrades, including a dynamic new front and rear fasciae, rear Jewel EyeTM LED combination lights, and a redesigned 17-inch, 10-spoke aluminum alloy wheel. The ILX also uses Acura’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure that is designed to absorb and disperse the energy in a frontal collision. Interior upgrades include contrasting Euro-style stitching on the steering wheel, parking brake handle and shift knob, and a new silver trim for the passenger-side panel.
 
The 2016 ILX is available in six trims, including the standard ILX, the ILX with Premium Package, ILX Technology Plus Package, and the all-new A-SPEC package, available with the Premium and Technology packages. The ILX A-SPEC package features include, but are not limited to, new 18-inch, 10-spoke machined alloy wheels with gloss black insets, exclusive Premium Black interior, perforated black Lux Suede® seat inserts, front fog lights, red instrument illumination, and aluminum brake and throttle pedals. 
 
Adding to the list of interior and exterior enhancements, the 2016 ILX also provides drivers with new connectivity and technology features. Features available on ILX Premium trims and above include, but are not limited to, an all-new tethered navigation system powered by the driver’s compatible iPhone via the AcuraLink navigation app, Acura’s On-Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD) with upper 8-inch display and lower 7-inch touchscreen interface, Acura’s Blind Spot Information and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, SiruisXM radio, AHA radio and HD radio.
   
The ILX Tech Plus trim with AcuraWatch™ and Acura Navigation includes features such as Siri Eyes Free, ELS premium audio system, Acura Link connected car technology, and a color Multi-information Display (MID) found between the tachometer and speedometer.
 
All models have the option of including AcuraWatch™, a suite of driver-assistive and safety technology that includes a Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, Road Departure Mitigation and Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (including Forward Collision Warning), Lane Keeping Assist System and Adaptive Cruise Control. Acura’s signature Jewel EyeTM LED headlights come standard on all ILX models.
 
The 2016 Acura ILX is launching at Acura dealers nationwide in early 2015.