2013 Acura ILX Shelby GT 500kr Convertible

Excellent build quality, good fuel economy and palatable starting prices make the 2013 Acura ILX an intriguing option for those who'd like a luxury car without the big payment. Reasonable starting price; above-average fuel economy from Hybrid model; well-constructed interior. After a decade of moving upmarket and farther away from the entry-level buyer, Acura's back with a new-generation compact model, the 2013 ILX. Smaller and less expensive than the TSX, the ILX sedan is aimed at shoppers who want something a bit nicer and sportier than the typical mainstream sedan but aren't willing to step up to the higher expense of an established luxury car. It reminds us a lot of the brand's old Integra, and like that car, the ILX is pretty successful in its mission. Nevertheless, you'll also want to be aware of the limitations of this strategy. The 2013 Acura ILX entry-level luxury sedan comes in two basic trim levels: base and Hybrid. Standard equipment is pretty much the same for both and includes 16-inch wheels, a sunroof, full power accessories, keyless ignition/entry, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a rearview camera and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack, a USB/iPod audio interface and Pandora integration. The standard engine for the 2013 ILX is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 150 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque. The only transmission offered is a five-speed automatic that sends its power to the front wheels. In Edmunds performance testing, this powertrain brought the ILX from zero to 60 mph in 9 seconds, which is average for a compact economy car. Fuel economy is pretty respectable at 24 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined. The 2013 Acura ILX comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. A rearview camera is also standard.