Acura Unveils First-Ever Hybrid at Vancouver International Auto Show
VANCOUVER (April 3, 2012) – Today, Acura unveiled its first-ever hybrid vehicle at the Vancouver International Auto Show. The all-new 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid, along with the new 2012 Acura TSX A-Spec, demonstrate Acura’s exciting new direction and were joined by the new 2013 Acura RDX as it goes on sale in dealerships across the country.
“Today is a great day for Acura in Canada as we launch the first models in a lineup that will be totally revamped within the next 3 years,” said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president, Honda Canada. “As the new gateway into the luxury market, the all-new ILX will now provide Canadians with a hybrid option, featuring advanced engine technology. For those that need more performance and styling, the new TSX A-Spec will deliver just that and for our customers that need added utility, our new 2013 RDX just went on sale yesterday.”
About the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid
The 2013 Acura ILX compact sedan is an all-new model that is the gateway into the Acura brand. Sleek and sporty, the ILX combines luxury, performance and efficiency while maintaining a strong emphasis on a stylish and aerodynamic exterior design. As a five-passenger entry luxury sedan, the ILX combines compact proportions with ample cargo space, a spacious passenger interior and a large and airy greenhouse that provides excellent outward visibility.
As Acura’s first ever hybrid model, the ILX Hybrid makes use of a 1.5-litre engine and an Integrated Motor Assist® electric motor. The hybrid drivetrain uses the gasoline engine as the primary power source, while an electric motor provides additional power when needed. A lithium-ion battery pack is used to capture and store electricity for the 20 horsepower electric motor. Together, the gasoline engine and electric motor produce 111 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 127 lb.-ft. of torque between 1000-3500 rpm. During braking, the gasoline engine deactivates and the electric motor acts as a generator to recharge the battery pack. At a stop, the 1.5-litre engine can enter idle-stop mode to save fuel and reduce emissions. The engine remains off until the brake pedal is released.
About the 2012 Acura TSX A-Spec
From its acrobatic agility and race-inspired engineering to its edgy exterior style, the TSX is an aggressive sport sedan designed to empower a new generation of Acura drivers. As one of Acura’s most popular sedans, the 2012 TSX remains fun to drive thanks to two powerful engine choices; a spirited 2.4L inline four cylinder and a 3.5L V-6.
Adding to the already nimble performance and bold styling of the TSX Premium model, the 2012 TSX A-Spec includes the spirited 2.4L engine, but is designed for the driver that wants to get even more from their Acura. Added features include exclusive 18" Wheels, high performance tires, A-SPEC badging and a full body Aero Kit. Inside, the new TSX A-Spec adds Ebony "Lux Suede" interior with red accent stitching, red illuminated gauges, ambient cabin lighting and metal racing pedals to round out the enhanced performance feel.
The 2012 TSX A-Spec is available in both manual and automatic transmission in two exterior colours - Bellanova White Pearl and Crystal Black Pearl. Availability will be limited to just 200 units in Canada.
About the 2013 Acura RDX
The 2013 Acura RDX is the second generation of Acura’s five-passenger crossover SUV and features a new engine, transmission and all-wheel-drive system that will up the ante in the compact luxury SUV segment with a new approach to achieving both advanced performance and improved fuel efficiency.
Inside the 2013 RDX, new sweeping shapes, matte surface trim, and generous use of leather combine to give the RDX interior an upscale look and luxury feel that Acura customers have come to expect. Generous use of sound deadening materials and Active Sound Control provides an exceptionally quiet cabin. Additional interior features, such as larger door openings, more passenger room, increased cargo volume and an available power rear tailgate make the RDX interior even more accommodating and flexible.
For more information on the Acura lineup, including photos, please visit Acuranews.ca