2013 Motor Trend Car of the Year Contender: Acura ILX

“The Acura ILX is what the Honda Civic should have been, but at a Civic price,” declared guest judge Chris Theodore. Despite all the C-word cussing, the ILX does have its strengths, especially the model with Honda’s 201-hp, 2.4-liter I-4 and six-speed manual combo also powering — you guessed it — the Civic Si. It drew praise for its swift-shifting manual and peppy nature around the handling track. “A hoot to drive around the winding track! Well-balanced and fun to drive with great shifter and responsive motor,” said Theodore. Others shared similar sentiments. For enthusiasts, this is the ILX...