2013 Acura ILX
The ILX is a new entry-level luxury car based on the Honda Civic platform. Three front-wheel-drive powertrains are offered. The base powertrain is a 2.0l four-cylinder paired with a five-speed automatic. For more power, the ILX is offered with a 2.4l four-cylinder mated to a six-speed manual transmission. A hybrid model is offered for buyers more concerned with fuel economy. The ILX will be offered with a Premium package that includes heated leather seats and active sound cancellation to quiet the cabin. Like other Acura models, an optional Technology package adds ELS surround audio and a navigation system. The ILX is manufactured in Ohio.
2012 Acura MDX
The MDX has been a popular SUV since its introduction in 2001. The MDX provides a luxury car feel with excellent ride, maneuverability, and a cabin that is roomy and comfortable. Under the hood, all versions of the MDX feature a 300 bhp, 3.7L V6 engine. Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system is standard. A six-speed automatic is the only offered transmission. Although many competitors offer V8 engines, the power output of the MDX V6 nearly equals the output of a V8. An available Technology package adds a satellite-linked navigation system and a 410-watt premium surround-sound audio system among other features. The Advance package adds more unusual features such as an active damping system, adaptive cruise control and a collision mitigation braking system. The Entertainment package adds a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and heated rear seats. With Honda's reliability and high resale values, the MDX is an all-around safe bet.
2013 Acura RDX
The Acura RDX is a smaller five passenger SUV/Crossover that competes with models like the Audi Q5, Cadillac SRX and BMW X3. The second generation RDX switched to V6 power. The 3.5l unit in the RDX is rated at 273-bhp which compares favorably with competitive models. Both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models are offered. A six-speed automatic with paddle selectors is standard. The five-passenger interior has more legroom than others in the segment, but gives up a little bit of cargo volume to bigger and more expensive models like the Lexus RX. The base model has standard power-adjustable leather seats, dual zone climate control, and a 360-watt audio system. The optional technology package adds HID lights, a satellite-linked navigation system and power operated tailgate. The RDX is priced aggressively undercutting competitive models from Cadillac, BMW, and Lexus by thousands of dollars.
2012 Acura RL
The RL is positioned as the flagship sedan of Acura's lineup. The RL boasts a number of advanced performance, design, technology and safety features which were unprecedented when the current model debuted in 2005. The powertrain features a 3.7L V6 and a 6-speed automatic delivering power to all four wheels via the SH-AWD (TM) system. This system varies torque front/back and side/side on the rear axle. The interior is finished in leather, wood and aluminum with LED backlit instrumentation. Active noise cancellation quiets the cabin. An optional satellite navigation system incorporates real-time traffic information to avoid traffic jams in big cities. Would-be buyers of the RL won't be disappointed with its quality or content, but many may be tempted by the similarly sized and equipped TL for less money.
2012 Acura TL
The TL is a premium mid-sized sedan loosely based on the popular Honda Accord. With prices starting at $35,000, the TL is a distinctively styled sedan with a high quality interior and a generous list of standard equipment. The front-wheel-drive TL base model is equipped with a powerful 280-bhp V6. For the performance enthusiast, the TL SH-AWD pairs a larger 305-bhp 3.7L V6 with Acura's all-wheel-drive system. The inclusion of all-wheel-drive widens the appeal to buyers who may be shopping rear-wheel-drive alternatives. An optional Technology package includes a voice activated navigation system, premium audio system and keyless operation. The short option list compares favorably to competitive offerings like the Cadillac CTS and Lexus ES whose base price quickly escalates with options.
2012 Acura TSX
Since the U.S. Accord is larger than its global counterpart, Honda sells a version of the European/Japanese Accord as the Acura TSX. The smaller, front-wheel-drive TSX serves as the entry-level model to the Acura brand. Priced at around $30,000, the TSX offers a comprehensive set of standard features including HID lighting, a moonroof, and standard powered and heated leather seats. An available tech package adds a 10-speaker audio system with surround sound and Acura's satellite-linked navigation system. While the TSX may not directly compete with other smaller RWD performance models, it does stand as a practical and well-equipped alternative.
2012 Acura TSX Sport Wagon
Acura's entry-level TSX is now available as an attractive wagon. The mid-sized, front-wheel-drive TSX offers the same practical luxury formula as the sedan but with an increased ability to haul stuff. All TSX wagons have a fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine which promises highway mileage of up to 30 MPG. The base TSX is equipped with a comprehensive set of features including HID lighting, a moonroof, and standard powered and heated leather seats. An available tech package adds a 10-speaker audio system with surround sound and Acura's satellite-linked navigation system.
2012 Acura ZDX
The Acura ZDX is a highly-specialized, low-volume alternative to the MDX. A sharply raked fastback profile trades the third row seat and tall cargo area for the more aggressive look of a coupe or sedan. The ZDX offers more luxury-oriented features than other Acuras. The interior features hand-stitched leather trim on the dashboard, door panels and center console. A long glass panoramic roof is standard. The powertrain is similar to that in the MDX. A 300-bhp, 3.7L V6 engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and Acura's SH-AWD system.
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