Chicago Auto Show: All new Acura 2013 RDX and ILX Debut
Both new Acura models are scheduled for launch in the Spring. “We are excited to be launching these two new luxury models as the gateway of Acura’s revitalized product lineup,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura. “As we embark on our second 25 years as a premium luxury-performance automobile brand, we are excited about the role these two vehicles will play in welcoming a new generation of luxury car buyers to the Acura brand.”
2013 Acura ILX The 2013 Acura ILX compact sedan is an all-new model that is positioned as the gateway into the Acura brand. The primary target customers for the new ILX are Generation Y— successful 20 and 30-somethings moving into the luxury car ranks but looking for high-value propositions in their purchases.
“First-time luxury buyers tend to place a high value on exterior styling, affordability and environmental issues, and that’s what we have created with the new Acura ILX,” said Jon Ikeda, head of the Acura Design Studio. “The strategy behind this new model is to position ILX as the first opportunity for many young buyers to enter the luxury market.” Sleek and sporty, the ILX combines luxury, performance and efficiency. While maintaining a strong emphasis on stylish and aerodynamically efficient exterior design, the ILX features a large and airy greenhouse that provides excellent outward visibility.
2013 Acura RDX Prototype - Photos and Info
Although Honda calls it a prototype, it is pretty obvious that the 2013 Acura RDX is almost production-ready. It was revealed at the 2012 Detroit auto show, and the date on which the car will go on sale is set sometime in the late spring.
The 2013 Acura RDX gets a new 3.5-liter V6 engine (an upgrade from the CR-V’s four-cylinder turbocharged engine) capable of producing more power than before: 273 horsepower. The automatic transmission also gets enhanced, from now on getting one extra gear (six on the 2013 RDX compared to five on the last model). These changes bring a better fuel economy, of 20 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway, compared to the last RDX’s 19 city 24 highway.
The cabin is now more spacious, and has been completely redesigned. There are also larger door openings for easy entry and exit, and thanks to the extra luggage space, the 2013 Acura RDX becomes even more practical.
The 2013 RDX was also fitted an infotainment/navigation system with a 60-gigabyte hard drive. This system allows use of Pandora internet radio, SMS text messaging, smarty entry keyless access, pushbutton start and a three-view rear camera.
The bad: The navigation system doesn't have 3D maps. Access to the rear seats is tight. The bottom line: The cuts a distinct figure, and more »
The good: The with navigation includes a good voice command system and iPod integration. Fuel economy is good.
