Acura ILX grows leaps and bounds for 2016

Its not easy to improve greatness.

Acura, however, took it upon themselves to achieve the unachievable by tweaking their "entry-level" ILX sports sedan, and the result was something a new car buyer could only have dreamt of.

In that ever-popular entry-level sedan segment, the Acura ILX has captured a higher percentage of those aged 35-and-under than any other vehicle. Instead of sitting on the sidelines, Acura pushed the limits by giving it a sportier look, adding power, adjusting handling and including more features that the buying public was clamoring for.

Under the hood sits a new 2.4L direct-injected DOHC i-VTEC engine that kicks out a respectable 201hp at 6,800 rpm and 180 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. Not only is that up 51hp fro m the previous model, but its now paired with an 8-speed dual clutch transmission with torque converter and paddle-controlled Sequential Sport Shift.

Jewel Eye LED headlights, along with a new grille design, a restyled rear end and new 10-spoke 17-in aluminum alloy wheels round out the base exterior, while the A-SPEC package adds a trunk spoiler, front fog lights and new 18-in 10-spoke machined alloy wheels.

Go inside and immediate doubt will cloud over as to how this could be an entry-level car. Thicker front door glass, noise-attenuating wheels and Active Noise Control technology ensure quiet ride. A roundabout of enhanced materials fill the cabin, including heated front seats, Bluetooth®, Smart Entry/Push-Button Start, one-touch turn signals, GPS-linked automatic climate control and LED accent lighting. When getting in the Premium and Tech Plus trims, youll notice a 7-in On Demand Multi-Use Display, which is located on the center stack.

Other a vailable features found in the Acura ILX are AcuraLink and AcuraWatch, which includes a plethora of driver-assistive technologies like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, Multi-View Rear Camera, Road Departure Mitigation and a Collision Mitigation Braking System.

With the next-gen Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACEâ„¢) body structure, and a host of available safety features, the Acura ILX is expected to achieve a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

To check out the new 2016 Acura ILX, visit your local Acura dealer at Mullers Woodfield Acura in Hoffman Estates. For quality and professional service, please call or fill out our convenient online form to set up an appointment.