The ILX Concept, which Acura debuted in Detroit, is the new, Civic-based gateway model into the luxury brand.

What we have here is a thinly disguised "concept." version of the compact sedan coming this spring. Sadly, it will not be built in Canada like the old Acura CSX, but Greensburg, Indiana.

The ILX will offer three powertrains, including Acura’s first hybrid drive from the Civic gas-electric. The other engines offered will be a 2.0-litre four-cylinder and a high-performance 2.4-litre four-cylinder, this time from the Civic Si.

With the comment, “the ILX will feature a high–quality, well-appointed interior that is smart, spacious and sporty,” Acura seems to be promising a major upgrade from the Civic’s own bargain plastic interior, also offering features like smart keyless access, pushbutton start and an infotainment system that can handle SMS text messages.