Anyone here own or have experience with the hybrid version of the ILX? I was wondering if it's worth the extra 3k or not.From reading reviews online there were criticisms such as weak power and small cargo space. On the positive side, it has been called stylish, with a lot of standard features and reliable.
Acura ILX Hybrid: Hit or Miss?
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I did have a chance to drive one at the local Acura dealership. I found it too weak for my tastes. On the highway, I struggled to overtake cars. On the roads, it wasn't too bad, but I wasn't a big fan of their idle-stop system. The engine turning off at stoplights is something I don't think I can get used to. I'm not that tall of a guy but I can see how people over 6ft might have problems with the headroom.
I was looking into buying one, but I read that the gas mileage doesn't quite deliver, so in the end it doesn't worth it to pay the premium. If I were truly interested in buying a green car, it's more worth it to buy a Prius which offers about the same quality and much better fuel economy. The ILX hybrid tries to compromise too much, being everything instead of something IMO.
That's exactly how I feel about it. It's just not worth getting for the premium price attached to it. That goes for a lot of the hybrids out today, they are not worth getting, it will take YEARS before you break even on the premium price you paid with gas savings.
Better off getting a regular ILX and driving efficiently.
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I actually own the Hybrid and I've been getting pretty good gas mileage 40+. I was in DC last weekend and got 43+. I really think it depends on how you drive, eg. slow down early, accelerate slow, use cruise control, and always drive using ECON. The power is not too bad for a hybrid. Turn off econ and it basically drives with the power similar to that of a civic.
I bought the hybrid because I wanted all the features and comfort, plus great MPG. So it was basically this or the CT200h (only buy Japanese because I trust the quality). The ILX came out a couple thousand dollars cheaper and to be honest, it looks a lot better externally and internally. The only thing I wish it had was side dimming mirrors and lumbar support in the main seat.
Just FYI, I used to own a Honda Accord 2008 Coupe v6 which has around 270+ HP... so that was a big change. But I was only get 22 MPG with that. I don't really need the power any more anyway since i'm driving just to work and on vacation.
I bought the hybrid because I wanted all the features and comfort, plus great MPG. So it was basically this or the CT200h (only buy Japanese because I trust the quality). The ILX came out a couple thousand dollars cheaper and to be honest, it looks a lot better externally and internally. The only thing I wish it had was side dimming mirrors and lumbar support in the main seat.
Just FYI, I used to own a Honda Accord 2008 Coupe v6 which has around 270+ HP... so that was a big change. But I was only get 22 MPG with that. I don't really need the power any more anyway since i'm driving just to work and on vacation.
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Maybe it's just me, but I'll sacrifice the better mileage for the acceleration of the K24.
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It all depends on your needs and requirements. hightemp13 needs something economical that still has the comfort and luxury. The ILX hybrid is a good option
He/she already has a v6 accord. More than enough fun.
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He/she already has a v6 accord. More than enough fun.
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I can't see myself buying hybrid until it becomes cheaper. Jumping to a hybrid from the base petrol version of any car is usually about $3000 MINIMUM. I've seen a few car models even go as far as $8k for example the Q50 hybrid. It's just not affordable yet. It'll take many years to even earn back the money spent on fuel savings.
It's also a relatively new technology. Will the car even hold up years from now? The reliability and resale value of a hybrid is still a question mark.
It's also a relatively new technology. Will the car even hold up years from now? The reliability and resale value of a hybrid is still a question mark.
The current ILX hybrid adds 3k to the base model ILX. I would expect it to be the same for this years model.
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I've calculated out the value and, conservatively, it would take about 3 years to make up the difference. Since i'm planning to own my car for more than 3 years... I think I will be ok on the ROI.
I'm pretty ignorant when it comes to hybrids. It's relatively new tech in the auto industry. This makes me question the long term reliability of hybrids. Do they last as long, as the petrol engines?
Also, how cheap and easy are they to maintain and fix? Is it more expensive?
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I wouldn't say they are more to fix. There is more things to fix but the cost should be the same. The hybrid parts might be a little bit more expensive (things like the battery and motor)
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Is there any issue with hybrids in the past that we have to worry about? I would like to know the life expectancy on a hybrid too. Seems like hybrids are entering the market are picking up on performance nowadays too. At the moment I am still skeptical about this new technology but maybe one day when its more clear.
We bought our ILX Hybrid when they first came out. Yes we paid more the the standard gas motor with the tech package but it has been a great car. It should have more content for the money in the interior such as dual memory power seats with lumbar. Toss the civic style trunk release and fuel door opener (tacky). As a first Acura owner I'm happy with it. This is coming from a BMW owner as well.
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That is good to hear. Which BMW did you own prior to this. Surprised because I envy the BMW interiors.
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I've heard minimal issues pertaining to the quality of hybrid cars. The only concern I have is the battery life.
Honda Civic Hybrid: Battery unreliable, Consumer Reports says - Yahoo! Autos
I would keep in touch with your dealer and make sure that they know your concern about the battery. I told mine and my dealer gave me in writing "a lifetime warranty" on the battery. I think my warranty manual says something different for the warranty of the battery... However, Honda/Acura knows about this issue and I bet they are willing to work with you. They have been extending warranties based on the article above.
A Li-ion battery should costs are typically 2000-4000 dollars. Could cost less if you do some research. The battery should last around 100,000+ miles with no issues maintaining a good charge.
Dual memory seats is kinda too much to ask for from a car like this, although it seems very basic, it's something not a lot of vehicles in a higher class than the ILX has.
It's going to be a while before this happens, by my guess, near the end of the ILX production cycle or in the next generation
We still own our BMW 535 xiT (Touring) with AWD. We've owned it about 4 years now from brand new of the showroom floor. Black and White leather interior, wood upgrade with Alpine white exterior, its a rare one. Of course it has all the toys that BMW's have 
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That is good to hear. Most BMW owners make fun of my Acura interior. Personally I find the older BMW interiors to be not that great either. The new ones are very nice.
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