ILX bridges a gap of sorts between regular compact cars and the current crop of premium compacts. Except in the 2.4 model (which few will likely buy due to its mandatory manual transmission), acceleration leans toward the leisurely side--particularly in the Hybrid--but chassis composure, noise suppression, and interior materials are at luxury levels. Those who put more weight on a premium nameplate, electronic gadgets, and high-end appointments than they do on performance or absolute value for the money may find the ILX a worthy addition to their shopping list.

Entry level, luxury, and hybrid are three words that aren't often said together, so the ILX comes out of the gate with a unique angle. The question, as ever, is whether it can live up to its promise. The answer, for the most part, is yes.

That said, the other 95 percent of the time, the ILX is essentially a transparently hybrid near-luxury sedan. The accommodations are nice, if not quite plush, with nice leathers, quality plastics, and good build quality--small gaps, no rattles or squeaks, and a general sense of solidity. It's a nice little car.

The ILX even handles pretty well, its inherent tendency toward lightness and a comfortable yet well-damped suspension delivering driving feel that's more engaging than many other affordable hybrids.