The ILX Hybrid is powered by the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA)^® System which has been designed on the premise that much of an engine's power is only used during acceleration or on steep inclines. Thus, the system incorporates a 1.5-liter, 8-valve, i-VTEC^® 4-cylinder gasoline engine along with an electric motor. The small, efficient engine operates alone when cruising at a steady speed while the electric motor assists the engine when additional power is required.

• Together, the motor and engine produce 111 hp @ 5500 rpm while torque is 127 @ 1000-3500.
• Connected exclusively to the continuously variable transmission, the engine has an EPA Estimated Fuel Economy of 39 miles per gallon in the city, 38 on the  highway and 38 combined.²⁷
• Under certain conditions, the electric motor alone can propel the car up to 45 mph.
• Deceleration and braking recharge the battery that supplies power to the electric motor.
• Though new to Acura, the IMA system has seen real-world use and been in continual development for over a decade.

The ILX Hybrid is equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT works like that of a multi-speed bicycle, in which different ratios are achieved by changing the size of gears on each side of a chain. Yet instead of a chain with multiple gears on each end, the transmission uses a metal push-belt, running between a pair of pulleys that continuously vary their diameter.