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Acura is looking to spice up its entry level luxury offering by launching the 2016 ILX with more features, high tech options and sensible packaging in terms of engines and transmissions.

With the debut of the new ILX, Acura announced that the car will come standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 201 HP and 180 lb-ft of torque. That engine is paired to an eight-speed dual clutch transmission. Similar to the Acura TLX the transmission also features a torque converter in order to deliver smoother launches off the line.

That alone is a pretty significant upgrade to the ILX, but Acura is also upping the amount of trim levels to six, compared to the previous three. Standard equipment includes the signature JewelEye LED headlights and interior enhancements like contrasting stitched leather and a high-intensity silver trim for the passenger-side instrument panel.

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There’s also an A-SPEC package that can be combined with Premium and Technology packages to enhance the value offering of the ILX. A-SPEC trimmed cars feature sportier styling inside and out including side sill garnishes, a trunk spoiler, front fog lights and new 18-inch alloy wheels with gloss black inserts. A-SPEC models also get a sportier looking interior with black headliner, perforated black Lux Suede seat inserts, red instrument illumination, exclusive gray interior stitching and aluminum pedals.

Also available is a premium package that gets power seats, homelink remote and a two-screen infotainment system. There’s also an available AcuraLink navigation system that utilizes your smartphone’s data connection to provide mapping information. Tech Plus packages add an embedded navigation system, as well as an enhanced sound system. Finally, buyers can choose to get the AcuraWatch safety suite of options, which adds adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, a rear camera, lane departure mitigation and a collision mitigation system.

Finally when it comes to the chassis, Acura has applied additional sound-deadening to keep the cabin quiet. Additionally, the car gets a retuned suspension and steering setup in order to enhance handling feel.

When Acura said the car was getting a significant update, they weren’t kidding. The new transmission and engine is good enough to make the Acura ILX worth considering in its segment, but the additional luxury and tech features are just icing on the cake. Look for it to hit dealers early next year.

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GALLERY: 2016 Acura ILX At LA Auto Show

GALLERY: 2016 Acura ILX

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