2013 Acura ILX vs 2012 Honda Civic: Luxury Upgrade or Smart Savings?

Honda's premium division took the Civic platform and transformed it into the Acura ILX - but is the luxury badge worth the premium? We break down the key differences in features, driving experience, and value.

--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--

Fundamental Differences

While sharing the same platform, these sedans were engineered for different buyers:

Driving Experience Comparison

--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--

Exclusive Standard Features on ILX

The $25,900 base ILX includes these premium features not available on the $23,605 Civic EX-L:

• Xenon HID headlights (vs halogen)
• Speed-sensing wipers
• Pandora integration
• SMS text message functionality
• Standard rearview camera
• Push-button start
• Keyless entry
• Automatic climate control

Value Proposition: Is the ILX Worth It?

The premium for the Acura badge and upgrades breaks down to:

• Base model: $2,295 over Civic EX-L
• Perceived luxury: More upscale styling and presence
• Driving refinement: Noticeably better sound insulation and handling
• Resale value: Acura typically holds value better than Honda
• --SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
  

Who Should Choose the ILX?

The Acura makes sense for buyers who:

• Prioritize driving refinement over absolute value
• Want premium features without German luxury prices
• Appreciate the Acura badge and dealership experience

Who Should Stick With the Civic?

The Honda remains the better choice for:

• Budget-conscious buyers
• Those who prioritize interior space
• Drivers wanting simpler controls

Our Verdict

While the Civic offers unbeatable value, the ILX's upgrades justify its premium for drivers seeking a more refined experience. The $2,295 difference between similarly-equipped models buys meaningful improvements in:

1. Noise isolation
2. Steering precision
3. Standard features
4. Overall driving satisfaction

For more detailed comparisons between luxury and mainstream models, explore MotorVero's complete buying guide.