2022 Acura ILX Interior and Cargo

As standard, the ILX comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter. The base model is only available with Ebony leatherette upholstery, which creates a dark atmosphere. There are some silver and chrome finishes that spruce it up a bit, but you have to opt for either the Premium or A-Spec Package for a striking interior ambiance. Premium means leather upholstery, which can be had in Graystone too, not just the default Ebony, as well as Espresso - the latter only in combination with the Platinum White, Modern Steel, or Majestic Black paint. A-Spec (which requires the Premium Spec as well) is default Ebony, but brings optional red with Ultrasuede trimming in the place of Graystone - and no Espresso option.

The ILX has 12.4 cubes to work with. That's on par for the segment and can accommodate two suitcases or a week's worth of groceries. Oddly, the rear seats don't fold down in a split, which is not a feature you think about until you don't have it. Transporting something large while having enough space left over for one or two people is something we take for granted, and it's deeply annoying not having this feature.

The interior storage consists of a center armrest with a storage bin, a rear center armrest with dual cupholders, and door pockets.

For the price, the ILX gets decent standard specs. These include keyless entry, push-button start system, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, adaptive cruise control, ambient lighting, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, and hill start assist. The available Premium and Technology packages add more comfort and convenience, while the A-Spec adds a few sporty cosmetic features.

As standard, the ILX gets a top-mounted five-inch display sans touch functionality. It ships standard with Bluetooth streaming, auxiliary and USB inputs, and a CD frontloader. The latter is increasingly becoming a rare sight in the automotive world. To get access to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HD radio, you have to pay an additional $2,000 for the Premium Package.

This changes the infotainment system to a dual-screen setup, which, to be frank, is the less user-friendly of the two configurations. The ILX would have been much better off with a single touchscreen interface. The Technology Package adds navigation with a 3D view, real-time traffic information, and a premium sound system with ten speakers.