Used Acura ILX vs TLX: Which Pre-Owned Acura Sedan Should You Buy?
Published October 12, 2026 · Last updated October 12, 2026
The used Acura ILX vs TLX choice comes down to size and budget. Both are front-drive Acura sedans no longer built new: the ILX ran from 2013 to 2022 and was replaced by the Integra, and the TLX ran from 2015 to 2025. The ILX is the compact, Civic-based entry sedan with a 201-hp 2.4-liter and 34 mpg on the highway, at an average used price of $18,656 to $23,301 for 2019–2022 cars. The TLX is the larger sport sedan, 194.6 inches long in its second generation, with 272 hp, available SH-AWD and a 355-hp Type S, averaging $27,128 and up for 2021–2025.
ILX or TLX: The Short Answer
- Our pick is the used Acura TLX. It is the bigger, faster and better-equipped sedan: up to 355 hp against the ILX's 201, available SH-AWD, more rear legroom and trunk space, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ on the 2021 model.
- It costs less extra than you think: a 2020 TLX averages only about $2,000 more than a 2020 ILX, and the two have nearly identical average repair costs ($440 vs $435 a year).
- It is the newer car: the TLX was built through 2025, three model years after the last ILX, so you can buy a newer, lower-mileage car that may still have factory warranty coverage left.
- Choose a used Acura ILX only if the lowest price and the easiest street parking matter more than anything else: 182.2 inches long, 24/34 mpg and a 2019–2022 model for about $18,700 to $23,300 on average.
Model-year timing: This comparison focuses on the 2019–2022 ILX, the last refresh with AcuraWatch standard, and on both TLX generations: 2015–2020 and the redesigned 2021–2025 model. Acura confirmed the end of the ILX in February 2022 and ended TLX production in July 2025, so both are now pre-owned only. Average used prices are CarGurus nationwide averages as of May 3, 2026, excluding dealer fees. Browse used inventory at Acura of Brooklyn or Acura Precision Certified pre-owned sedans.
ILX vs TLX at a Glance
| Spec | Acura ILX (2019–2022) | Acura TLX (2015–2020) | Acura TLX (2021–2025) | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average used price | $18,656 (2019) to $23,301 (2022) | $13,715 (2015) to $22,051 (2020) | $27,128 (2021) to $41,829 (2025) | Depends on year |
| Class | Compact sedan (Civic-based) | Sport sedan | Sport sedan, dedicated platform | TLX |
| Length | 182.2 in | 190.7 in (2018–2020) | 194.6 in | ILX (parking) |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 in | 109.3 in | 113.0 in | TLX (ride) |
| Rear legroom | 34.0 in | 34.5 in | 34.9 in | TLX |
| Trunk | 12.4 cu ft | 13.2 cu ft | 13.5 cu ft | TLX |
| Engine | 2.4L, 201 hp, 180 lb-ft | 2.4L, 206 hp; 3.5L V6, 290 hp | 2.0L turbo, 272 hp, 280 lb-ft; Type S 3.0L turbo V6, 355 hp | TLX |
| Transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch | 8-speed dual-clutch (2.4L); 9-speed automatic (V6) | 10-speed automatic | TLX |
| Drivetrain | FWD only | FWD; SH-AWD on V6 | FWD; SH-AWD available, standard on Type S | TLX |
| EPA mpg (city/hwy/comb) | 24/34/28 | 2.4L 23/33/27; V6 SH-AWD 20/29/23 (2020) | FWD 22/31/25; SH-AWD 21/29/24; Type S 19/25/21 | ILX |
| Safety | AcuraWatch standard from 2019 | — | 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ | TLX (2021+) |
| Avg. annual repair cost | $435 | $440 (all TLX years) | Tie | |
| Successor | Acura Integra (2023 on) | Second-generation TLX | None; production ended July 2025 | — |
Want These Numbers for a Specific Car?
The table above covers typical configurations. Tell us whether you are leaning ILX or TLX, the model years and budget you have in mind, and the best way to reach you, and an Acura of Brooklyn product specialist will send matching pre-owned cars, their history reports, Plaza pricing and a test-drive time, usually within the hour during business hours. No deposit, no obligation, no middlemen.
Where the ILX and TLX Fit in the Acura Lineup
The ILX was Acura's entry sedan from the 2013 model year, built on the ninth-generation Honda Civic platform. It was refreshed for 2016, when the 2.4-liter and eight-speed dual-clutch became the only powertrain, and again for 2019, when AcuraWatch became standard. The 2022 ILX was the last; the Integra replaced it as Acura's entry point for 2023. For how the new car compares, see Acura Integra vs ILX and RSX: How the New Integra Compares.
The TLX arrived for 2015 to replace both the TL and the TSX, sitting one step above the ILX. Its first generation ran through 2020, with a 2018 refresh that added Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and the A-Spec. The 2021 redesign moved it to its own platform with a turbocharged engine and the return of the Type S. Acura ended production in July 2025, leaving the Integra as its only sedan. If you are deciding between a TLX and its predecessor, read Used Acura TL vs TLX: What Changed and Which Should You Buy?.
Why the TLX Is the Better Buy
For most shoppers, the TLX is the smarter purchase, and the reasons add up quickly.
More performance for nearly the same running costs. Every TLX out-powers the ILX: 206 hp in the 2015–2020 four-cylinder, 290 hp in the V6, 272 hp in the 2021–2025 turbo and 355 hp in the Type S, against 201 hp in every 2016–2022 ILX. Merging onto the Gowanus or passing on the Thruway is effortless in a TLX. Yet RepairPal puts average annual repairs at $440 for the TLX and $435 for the ILX, a difference of $5 a year.
All-wheel drive when you need it. The ILX was front-wheel drive only. The TLX offers Super Handling All-Wheel Drive on the V6, on the 2021–2025 turbo and as standard on the Type S, a real advantage on snowy Brooklyn side streets and winter weekends in the Catskills.
A more comfortable, more spacious car. The TLX's wheelbase is 4.2 to 7.9 inches longer, so it rides more calmly over potholes and expansion joints. Rear passengers get up to 34.9 inches of legroom against 34.0, and the trunk holds up to 13.5 cubic feet against 12.4, room for a stroller or a second suitcase.
Newer safety and technology. The 2021–2025 TLX earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the institute's highest rating, and brought a new interior, a turbocharged engine and a 10-speed automatic. Every TLX from 2018 on has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
A newer car for your money. The last ILX is a 2022, so most are past Acura's 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. The TLX was built through 2025, so a 2023–2025 car can still have some factory coverage left, and an Acura Precision Certified TLX adds inspection and extended coverage on top.
The price gap is small. A 2020 TLX averaged $22,051 in May 2026, just $2,002 more than a 2020 ILX, for a car with a longer wheelbase, a bigger trunk and an available V6 with SH-AWD. Even the redesigned 2021 TLX is only about $5,600 more than a 2021 ILX, roughly $100 a month over a five-year loan.
Size, Interior and Trunk Space
The ILX is the city-sized car. At 182.2 inches long it is 8.5 inches shorter than a 2018–2020 TLX and 12.4 inches shorter than a 2021–2025 TLX, which is the difference between taking a short gap on a Park Slope block and circling for another.
Inside, the gap is smaller than the outside suggests. The ILX offers 34.0 inches of rear legroom against 34.5 in the first-generation TLX and 34.9 in the second, and a 12.4-cubic-foot trunk against 13.2 and 13.5. The TLX's longer wheelbase pays off more in ride than in space: it is the calmer car on the BQE's expansion joints and on a long run up the Taconic. If you regularly carry adults in the back, either TLX is more comfortable; for one passenger and a weekly grocery run, the ILX is enough.
Engines, Transmissions and Performance
Every 2016–2022 ILX uses the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder, 201 hp and 180 lb-ft, with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic and front-wheel drive. It is a lively, high-revving engine, but the ILX was never sold with all-wheel drive. The 2013–2015 cars also offered a 150-hp 2.0-liter with a five-speed automatic, a 201-hp 2.4-liter with a six-speed manual and, for 2013–2014 only, a hybrid.
The TLX offers more of everything. The 2015–2020 car pairs a 206-hp 2.4-liter with an eight-speed dual-clutch, or a 290-hp 3.5-liter V6 with a nine-speed automatic and available SH-AWD. The 2021–2025 car uses a 272-hp, 280 lb-ft 2.0-liter turbo with a 10-speed automatic, or the Type S's 355-hp turbo V6 with standard SH-AWD and Brembo front brakes. Either TLX V6 is a genuinely quick sedan; the turbo four is the one most buyers should look for.
Fuel Economy
The ILX is the more efficient car. A 2019–2022 ILX is rated 24 mpg city, 34 highway and 28 combined. The closest TLX is the 2018–2020 2.4-liter at 23/33/27; the 2021–2025 turbo is rated 22/31/25 with front-wheel drive and 21/29/24 with SH-AWD, and the Type S 19/25/21. Acura recommends premium fuel for the second-generation TLX, which adds to the running cost. For stop-and-go driving across Brooklyn and Queens, the ILX is the cheaper car to fill.
Tech, Safety and Packages
The ILX's best years are 2019–2022, when the refresh brought a faster infotainment system and made AcuraWatch standard, including collision mitigation braking, adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. ILX buyers will see Premium, Technology and A-Spec packages; the A-Spec adds 18-inch wheels, sport styling and leather with Ultrasuede inserts. Even in its last years, the ILX's cabin tech is a step behind the TLX.
On the TLX, look for Technology, A-Spec and, on V6 models, Advance packages. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto arrived with the 2018 refresh. The 2021 TLX brought a new interior, the True Touchpad Interface and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the institute's highest rating at the time. If modern safety tech is a priority, a 2021 or newer TLX is the stronger choice; on a budget, a 2019 or newer ILX gets you AcuraWatch as standard.
Best Model Years and Reliability
Both cars hold up well. RepairPal rates Acura 4.0 out of 5, second of 32 brands, and estimates average annual repair costs of $435 for the ILX and $440 for the TLX, both below the Acura average of $501. For the ILX, the 2019–2022 cars are the ones to buy: newest, refreshed and with AcuraWatch standard. For the TLX, the 2018–2020 cars are the value sweet spot and the 2021–2025 cars the most modern.
The known issue to check is on early TLX V6 cars: about 8,300 2015 TLX V6 sedans were recalled in 2016 for a transmission wiring condition that could shift the car into neutral, fixed with a free software update. Run any car's VIN for open recalls, ask for the service history, and favor an Acura Precision Certified car if you want the added inspection and coverage. For every year side by side, see Used Acura RDX, TLX, ILX and More: Year-by-Year Comparison.
Used Prices and Cost of Ownership
Year for year, the TLX costs more, but the gap depends on the generation. A 2020 TLX averaged $22,051 in May 2026, only $2,002 more than a 2020 ILX at $20,049. A 2021 TLX, the first of the redesigned car, averaged $27,128, $5,575 more than a 2021 ILX at $21,553.
Used Acura ILX prices by model year
2016 $13,048, 2017 $14,227, 2018 $15,233, 2019 $18,656, 2020 $20,049, 2021 $21,553 and 2022 $23,301 on average. When new, the 2022 ILX started at about $28,400 and topped out near $34,300 with the Technology and A-Spec packages. Browse used Acura inventory at Acura of Brooklyn.
Used Acura TLX prices by model year
2015 $13,715, 2016 $14,731, 2017 $15,386, 2018 $18,386, 2019 $20,361, 2020 $22,051, 2021 $27,128, 2022 $32,106, 2023 $34,954, 2024 $36,709 and 2025 $41,829 on average. The final 2025 TLX listed at $45,400 for the Technology Package, $50,400 for the A-Spec and $58,050 for the Type S before destination. See certified pre-owned Acuras, or compare with a new sedan in Acura Integra vs TLX: Which Acura Sedan Should You Buy?.
ILX vs TSX and RLX: Quick Take
The TSX (2004–2014) was the compact sport sedan the TLX replaced. Its final generation offered a 201-hp 2.4-liter, a 280-hp V6 and a Sport Wagon, but a five-speed automatic and no modern driver-assist tech, and even the newest is now over a decade old. For a similar budget, a 2016–2018 ILX is the newer car; if you want the TSX's size, a 2015–2017 TLX fills that role.
The RLX (2014–2020) was Acura's flagship sedan: 198.1 inches long in its final form, with a 310-hp V6 or a 377-hp Sport Hybrid SH-AWD. It is a lot of car for the money used, but much bigger than an ILX and with fewer cars on the market. Production ended in June 2020. If you are cross-shopping other brands, see Acura ILX vs Competitors: A4, A3, IS and More.
Acura of Brooklyn layers its own offers on pre-owned cars and financing, so check the current Acura of Brooklyn promotions, get pre-approved for financing, and get your trade-in value before you visit.
Used Acura ILX and TLX in Stock at Acura of Brooklyn
Every pre-owned Acura below is on the ground at Acura of Brooklyn and available to drive today. Filter by model, year, mileage and price, or call (347) 501-8047 and we will line up an ILX and a TLX so you can drive them back to back. Free delivery within 25 miles.
Which Used Sedan Should You Buy?
Modern safety, power and tech
272-hp turbo, 10-speed automatic, available SH-AWD and a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick+; the newest cars may still carry factory coverage.
Most car for the money
Within about $2,000 of an ILX of the same year, with a longer wheelbase, a bigger trunk and an available 290-hp V6 with SH-AWD.
Performance
355-hp turbo V6, standard SH-AWD and Brembo front brakes; the quickest sedan of the group.
Tightest budget
182.2 inches long, 24/34 mpg and a 2019–2022 car for about $18,700 to $23,300 on average, with AcuraWatch standard.
Final Scorecard
| Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Used price | ILX | $21,553 vs $27,128 for a 2021 model |
| City parking | ILX | 182.2 in vs 190.7–194.6 in |
| Fuel economy | ILX | 28 vs 25–27 mpg combined |
| Rear seat and trunk | TLX | 34.9 vs 34.0 in; 13.5 vs 12.4 cu ft |
| Power | TLX | 206–355 hp vs 201 hp |
| All-wheel drive | TLX | SH-AWD available; ILX is FWD only |
| Safety | TLX (2021+) | IIHS Top Safety Pick+; ILX AcuraWatch from 2019 |
| Repair cost | Tie | $435 vs $440 a year (RepairPal) |
| Model years available | TLX | Built through 2025 vs 2022 for the ILX |
| Overall for NYC drivers | TLX | More power, space, safety and AWD for about $2,000–$5,600 more |
Still deciding? See what came before and after with Used Acura TL vs TLX: What Changed and Which Should You Buy? and Acura Integra vs ILX and RSX: How the New Integra Compares, compare every year in Used Acura RDX, TLX, ILX and More: Year-by-Year Comparison, or see where the TLX sits against today's models in Acura SUV & Sedan Lineup Compared. Cross-shopping other brands? Read Acura ILX vs Competitors: A4, A3, IS and More.
Free home delivery within 25 miles. Acura of Brooklyn delivers your new or pre-owned Acura to your door — free within a 25-mile radius, which covers all five NYC boroughs and much of Nassau County. Our service department also offers pickup and drop-off across the entire NYC metro area.
Ask Our Team About DeliveryUsed Acura ILX vs TLX: Frequently Asked Questions
Is the TLX bigger than the ILX?
Yes, mostly on the outside. A second-generation TLX (2021–2025) is 194.6 inches long on a 113.0-inch wheelbase, 12.4 inches longer than a 2019–2022 ILX at 182.2 inches on a 105.1-inch wheelbase; a first-generation TLX (2018–2020) is 190.7 inches. Inside, the gap is smaller: 34.9 inches of rear legroom against 34.0, and a 13.5-cubic-foot trunk against 12.4.
What replaced the Acura ILX?
The Acura Integra. Acura confirmed in February 2022 that the 2022 ILX would be the last, and the Integra took over as the brand's entry model for 2023. It is a liftback with a 200-hp turbo, 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space and, for 2026, a $33,400 starting MSRP.
Which is more reliable, a used ILX or TLX?
Both have a good record, and RepairPal estimates nearly identical average repair costs: $435 a year for the ILX and $440 for the TLX. The 2016–2022 ILX uses one proven powertrain, a 201-hp 2.4-liter with an eight-speed dual-clutch. The one well-known TLX issue is a 2015 V6 recall covering about 8,300 cars, fixed with a free transmission software update. On either car, service history matters more than the badge.
Is a used TLX worth the extra money over an ILX?
For most buyers, yes. Average used prices in May 2026 put a 2020 TLX at $22,051, only about $2,000 more than a 2020 ILX, for a roomier car with an available V6 and SH-AWD. A 2021 TLX averaged $27,128, about $5,600 more than a 2021 ILX, and that buys 71 more horsepower, a 10-speed automatic, available SH-AWD and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. Average repair costs are nearly identical, so the extra cost is mostly up front.
Acura ILX vs TSX — which is better?
For most buyers, a 2019–2022 ILX. The TSX ended after the 2014 model year, so even the newest one is over a decade old. Its final generation offered a 201-hp 2.4-liter, a 280-hp V6 and a Sport Wagon, but only a five-speed automatic. The ILX is newer, comes with an eight-speed dual-clutch and, from 2019, standard AcuraWatch safety and driver-assist features.
2021 Acura ILX vs TLX — which should I buy?
The 2021 TLX. It was the first year of the redesigned second generation, with a 272-hp turbo, a 10-speed automatic, available SH-AWD and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, at an average used price of $27,128. The 2021 ILX, at $21,553 with 201 hp and front-wheel drive only, makes sense only if the lowest price and the easiest parking come first.
Find a Used ILX or TLX at Acura of Brooklyn
Visit Acura of Brooklyn (2751 Nostrand Ave) to see our pre-owned Acura sedans, compare an ILX and a TLX side by side and have our service team inspect any car before you buy. Part of the family-owned Plaza Auto Mall, serving New York since 1975, with free delivery within 25 miles. Call Acura of Brooklyn sales at (347) 501-8047.
*Average used prices are CarGurus nationwide averages as of May 3, 2026, excluding dealer fees, taxes, title and registration; actual prices vary with mileage, condition and equipment. Specifications are based on manufacturer information for the model years shown. Repair cost estimates are from RepairPal. EPA ratings are estimates; actual mileage will vary. See dealer for details.
