In addition to its NSX Concept, Acura unveiled two new models at the North American International Auto Show: a new ILX compact sports sedan that will feature Acura’s first hybrid powertrain and an all-new RDX sport utility vehicle with a new engine and all-wheel drive system.
A concept version of the all-new gateway to the Acura brand – the ILX luxury compact sedan is the precursor to an all-new Acura luxury compact sedan scheduled for launch in Spring 2012. The ILX will feature three different powertrains, including Acura’s first-ever gas-electric hybrid.?”First time luxury buyers place the highest value on exterior styling, affordability and environmental issues and that’s a virtual definition of what we have created with the new Acura ILX,” said Jon Ikeda, head of the Acura Design Studio.
Sleek, sporty and aerodynamically efficient, the exterior of the all-new Acura ILX combines luxury, performance and efficiency in a beautifully styled luxury sedan, the ILX Concept has a compact, yet formal proportion, targeting a very professional image. The Acura ILX features a greenhouse that provides excellent visibility and an aerodynamic low and wide stance that is immediately recognizable as an Acura.?The lineup of ILX models will include an entry-level model powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine; a high-performance model with a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission; and a 1.5-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, Acura’s first-ever hybrid offering.?The ILX will feature a high-quality, well-appointed interior that is smart, spacious and sporty.?As with all Acura models, the ILX will have a long list of standard features, unique trim levels, multiple transmission choices, and excellent standard safety features.
A prototype of the 2013 RDX crossover sport utility vehicle was displayed, representing the second generation of Acura’s five-passenger crossover SUV designed to up the ante with a new approach to achieving both advanced performance and fuel efficiency via a new engine, transmission and all-wheel drive system. The new RDX is scheduled to launch in Spring 2012, and will be powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 273 horsepower — 33 more than the outgoing model — as the standard engine. For even higher performance and improved fuel economy, the RDX makes use of a 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter. The RDX also gets a new, lighter all-wheel-drive system that provides the required performance and safety with increased efficiency.? With anticipated EPA fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, front-wheel-drive RDX models are expected to offer the best fuel economy of any gasoline-powered luxury SUV in its class.
As with the ILX, the 2013 RDX will receive a host of new technologies including a Pandora internet radio interface, SMS text message feature, a smart entry keyless access system, pushbutton start, and a three-view rear camera. An available Technology Package will provide a full complement of relevant technologies including AcuraLink Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting, and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather with radar image maps.
