2016 Acura ILX gets a mid-cycle makeover (pictures)

Acura refreshes its entry-level model at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The 2016 Acura ILX, seen here in A-Spec trim, features an updated look as well as some under the skin improvements.

The sedan's broad strokes and platform, however, remain unchanged.

The front and rear fascia are tweaked.

Acura makes its "Jewel Eye" LED headlamps standard equipment for all ILX models.

The shield grill is also tweaked and massaged.

Under the hood, the ILX's 2.4-liter engine persists, but the 2.0-liter option is no more.

The automaker has substantially updated the powertrain for the 2016 model year. Power is still stated at 201 horses, but torque is up to 180 pound-feet.

The Acura TLX lends its novel eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with torque converter to the new ILX.

In addition to the Standard, Premium and Tech trim levels, the 2016 ILX also gains a new A-Spec model.

The A-Spec model features sportier styling with fog lights, a rear spoiler, and side sills.

The A-Spec also features black exterior garnishes and darker, sportier interior trim.

17-inch wheels are standard, but the ILX A-Spec rolls on 18-inchers.

The cabin still reminds me of the Honda Civic, upon which the ILX is based. For 2016, Acura's new dual-screened infotainment suite is available.

The system uses an 8-inch screen at the top of the dashboard and a 7-inch touchscreen lower in the center stack.

Acura has also tweaked the ILX's suspension and chassis for more responsive steering.

The automaker makes no mention of the return of the previous model's six-speed manual transmission, so we hope the new automatic gearbox is a good one.

The standard ILX is less aggressive than the A-Spec.

The automaker also improves the available safety tech. ILX Premium models feature standard blind-spot monitoring.

An available AcuraWatch driver-aid suite rolls in forward-collision warning and braking, adaptive cruise control, and the automaker's lane-keeping assist system.

The 2016 Acura ILX lands at dealerships in early 2015.