2017 Honda Civic Overview
The 2017 Honda Civic continued its reign as a dominant force in the compact car segment, offering a compelling blend of style, practicality, and enjoyable driving dynamics. Building on the success of its redesigned 10th generation, the 2017 model refined the formula with a wider range of body styles and powertrain options to suit diverse needs.
Highlights
- Engines:
- 2.0-liter Inline-4: Standard on the LX and EX trims, this naturally aspirated engine delivers a respectable 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. It provides ample power for daily commuting and highway cruising, prioritizing fuel efficiency.
- 1.5-liter Turbocharged Inline-4: Available on EX-T, EX-L, and Touring trims (and standard on Si and Type R), this powerplant offers a significant boost in performance with 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. It provides a more engaging driving experience with quicker acceleration and better passing power, while maintaining impressive fuel economy.
- Safety Features:
- Honda Sensing: Available on EX and higher trims, this suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies enhances safety and driver awareness. It includes:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically slowing down and accelerating as needed.
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Uses radar and camera to detect potential frontal collisions and automatically applies the brakes if a collision is imminent.
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Detects if the vehicle is unintentionally drifting out of its lane and can provide steering assistance or brake application to keep it on the road.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing gentle steering inputs.
- Backup Camera: Standard on all trims, offering enhanced visibility when reversing.
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control: Helps maintain control during challenging driving conditions by automatically applying brakes and reducing engine power.
- Trims:
- Civic LX: The entry-level model, offering essential features for a comfortable and reliable driving experience.
- Civic EX: Adds a more powerful engine option (1.5L turbo), a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and other desirable amenities.
- Civic EX-T: Builds upon the EX with the turbocharged engine as standard, offering a sportier feel and enhanced features.
- Civic EX-L: Adds leather-trimmed seating and an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat for a more premium feel.
- Civic Touring: The top-tier trim, including all features from the EX-L, plus advanced safety technologies, navigation, and premium audio.
- Civic Si: A sport-oriented variant featuring a more powerful turbocharged engine, sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, and aggressive styling.
- Civic Type R: The ultimate performance machine, boasting a potent turbocharged engine, advanced chassis dynamics, and track-ready capabilities.
- Body Styles: The 2017 Civic was available as a sedan, coupe, and hatchback, providing versatility for different lifestyles and preferences. The hatchback offered enhanced cargo space, making it a practical choice for those needing more utility.
What to Expect
The 2017 Honda Civic typically offers a predictable and positive ownership experience. Honda's reputation for reliability holds true for this generation, meaning you can generally expect minimal unexpected repairs if properly maintained. Routine maintenance will involve oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements, with costs typically falling within the average for the compact car segment.
Insurance costs will vary based on your location, driving record, and chosen trim level. Generally, Civics are known for being relatively affordable to insure compared to some of their more performance-oriented or luxury competitors. The availability of a wide range of safety features on higher trims can sometimes lead to slightly higher insurance premiums, but the added safety benefits are often worth it.
Owners can expect a comfortable and refined ride for daily commuting, with a surprisingly engaging driving experience, especially in the turbocharged models. The interior is well-designed, user-friendly, and offers a good balance of materials for its class.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Honda Civic is a highly competent vehicle, there are a few points buyers should be aware of:
- CVT Transmission Behavior: While the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) excels at fuel efficiency, some drivers might find its acceleration feel and sound to be less engaging than a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. "Rubber band effect" can sometimes be noticeable during hard acceleration.
- Road Noise: On certain road surfaces, particularly at highway speeds, some road noise can penetrate the cabin. This is a common characteristic in the compact car segment, but it's something to note if you prioritize a whisper-quiet interior.
- Base Engine Power: While the 2.0-liter engine is perfectly adequate for most driving, those seeking more spirited acceleration might find it a bit underwhelming compared to the turbocharged option.
- Touchscreen Infotainment Responsiveness: While the touchscreen infotainment system offers desirable features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, its responsiveness and interface can sometimes feel a bit dated or less intuitive compared to the latest systems on the market.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Honda Civic cemented its status as a top-tier compact car by offering a well-rounded package that appeals to a broad audience. With its stylish design, efficient and powerful engine options, excellent safety features, and Honda's renowned reliability, it remains a smart and practical choice for a wide range of buyers. Whether you're looking for an economical commuter, a fun-to-drive sporty car, or a versatile hatchback, the 2017 Civic likely has a configuration that will meet your needs.
