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Acura ILX vs TLX: which one to choose and why?

Comparing the 2022 Acura ILX to the TLX to make a decision

Are you looking for a new luxury sedan? If Acura vehicles caught your eye, you may be trying to choose between the Acura ILX vs TLX. While both models have a lot to offer, and even look similar in some respects, these true are in fact quite different!

Desjardins Acura, your dealer in Montreal, helps you make the best decision by comparing the features of the Acura ILX vs TLX.

Their Dimensions

The main difference between the Acura ILX vs TLX is the category they belong to. In fact, while both are sedans, the ILX is a subcompact luxury sedan, while the TLX is a mid-size luxury sedan.

The TLX is 31.4 cm longer and 11.6 cm wider. It is also slightly higher than its smaller sister. This makes it bigger on the outside and more spacious inside. However, the difference is not as big as you might expect.

In fact, you will be surprised to find that the ILX has more headroom in the front (964 mm vs. 946 mm). What's more, legroom is not that much lower than that of the TLX, both in the front and the rear: the difference is 5 mm in the front and 22 mm in the rear.

lateral view of the 2022 Acura ILX on a city street

2022 Acura ILX

lateral view of the 2022 Acura TLX on a city street

2022 Acura TLX

Given the difference in their widths, however, the TLX provides considerably more hip and shoulder room than the ILX. As for cargo space, the ILX can hold 348 L, while the TLX's trunk can hold 382 L.

The subcompact sedan format is definitely very practical in the city. It makes it easy to squeeze between two cars or to drive in narrow streets. So in the end, your choice will depend on your needs: will it be the Acura subcompact sedan or the mid-size sedan?

Comparing their engines

There is another important factor that significantly separates the Acura ILX vs Acura TLX: their engines.

The luxury subcompact sedan comes standard with a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. This powertrain cranks out 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with paddle shifters, to the delight of driving enthusiasts.

The TLX also features paddle shifters, combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The TLX offers you the choice of two engines. The standard engine is a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which delivers 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. You can also opt for a Type S, which is equipped with a 3.0 L V6 for an even better performance. This powertrain unleashes 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque!

three quarter front view of the 2022 Acura ILX crossing a bridge

2022 Acura ILX

three quarter front view of the 2022 Acura TLX on a road

2022 Acura TLX

While the subcompact luxury sedan is powerful for its class, the TLX is a better choice if you are looking for performance above all else. What's more, the TLX now comes standard with SH-AWD.

Extra power and an all-wheel drive transmission always translate into greater fuel consumption. So, if fuel efficiency is a priority for you, the 2022 Acura ILX is a better choice with its combined fuel consumption rating of 8.6 L/100 km. That is better than the 9.8 L/100 km for the TLX and 11.2 L/100 km for the Type S.

Whichever model you choose, you are sure to have a great time behind the wheel thanks to the integrated dynamic system, which allows you to change the driving mode to suit your mood.

The interior design

When you purchase an Acura vehicle, you're not only getting the best sportiness, but more importantly, the best in interior luxury. And on that front, both sedans deliver! In fact, they are similar in terms of design both on the exterior and the interior.

Base models feature faux leather upholstery, which is then upgraded to perforated leather in other versions. If you choose the A-Spec version, you will enjoy red or black leather upholstery and a distinctive ebony black Ultrasuede interior.

Heated front seats are standard on all versions, but only the TLX features ventilated seats and heated rear seats on the Platinum Elite. With the latter version of the TLX, you also enjoy 16-way power-adjustable front seats and wood accents for the ultimate in luxury.

view of the steering wheel and dashboard inside the 2022 Acura ILX

2022 Acura ILX

close up view of the touchscreen of the central console inside the 2022 Acura ILX

As for their technologies, aboard both models you will find features such as :

  • Bluetooth interface with hands-free controls
  • Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM connectivity
  • An optional navigation system

The TLX packs in a few more features, like a 10.2-inch screen, an available wireless charging tray and much more. In their top-of-the-line versions, both models deliver an exceptional ELS Studio audio system, with 10 speakers in the ILX and 17 speakers in the TLX.

All in all, both Acura models deliver the very best in luxury, but if you are looking for that extra touch, the 2022 Acura TLX is exactly what you need.

view of the dashboard, steering wheel and central console of the 2022 Acura TLX

2022 Acura TLX

2022 Acura ILX vs. 2022 TLX: Price

As you can guess, while the TLX offers a little more of everything, it also comes with a higher price tag than the ILX: for the base version, that's a difference of just over $14,000. But for that extra money, you get a more powerful car with even more luxury features.

Let's see how the 2022 ILX vs. TLX compare in terms of price and technical features:

2022 Acura ILX 2022 Acura TLX
Versions and Price

ILX : $31 400

Premium : $33 900

Premium A-Spec : $35 400

Tech A-Spec : $36 800

TLX : $45 700

Tech : $48 100

A-Spec : $51 000

Platinum Elite : $53 400

Type S : $60 500

Engines
2.4 L 4-cylinder

2.4 L 4-cylinder turbo

3.0 L V6 turbo (Type S)

Power/Torque
201 horsepower/180 lb-ft

272 horsepower/280 lb-ft

355 horsepower/354 lb-ft (Type S)

Fuel Consumption (City/Highway/Combined) (L/100 km)
9.9/7.0/8.6

11.2/8.0/9.8

12.3/9.8/11.2 (Type S)

Trunk Capacity
348 L 382 L

Whichever sedan is best for you, you can purchase the Acura ILX and TLX at your Acura dealership in Montreal. Also be sure to ask our experts for advice!

rear view of two 2022 Acura TLX on a road