When you’re looking for a car that does it all without breaking the bank, the 2017 Honda Civic stands out as a top contender. The 2017 Honda Civic is a true blend of performance and reliability that has won over drivers everywhere. It built on a legendary reputation, offering a mix of fun driving, great fuel economy, and proven durability that’s hard to beat.
This model year was part of the tenth generation, a complete redesign that really changed the game. It brought a more aggressive style, a roomier cabin, and new technology to the table. Whether you’re a commuter, a small family, or a first-time buyer, this Civic has something to offer.
Let’s look at what makes this car such a smart choice.
2017 Honda Civic – a Blend of Performance and Reliability
This headline isn’t just marketing talk. It’s the core identity of the vehicle. Honda managed to take two things drivers want—excitement and peace of mind—and put them together in one affordable package. You don’t have to choose between a car that’s fun and a car that will last. You get both.
What Makes the 2017 Civic So Reliable?
Honda’s reputation for building cars that run forever is well-earned, and the 2017 Civic is a shining example. This reliability comes from several key factors.
* Proven Powertrains: The engines in the 2017 Civic, especially the standard 2.0-liter and turbocharged 1.5-liter, are based on solid engineering. They aren’t overly complex and have a history of performing well for hundreds of thousands of miles with basic care.
* High-Quality Manufacturing: Honda’s build quality is consistently ranked among the best. The materials are chosen for durability, and the assembly process is precise. This leads to fewer squeaks, rattles, and mechanical issues down the road.
* Excellent Safety Scores: Reliability also means keeping you safe. The 2017 Civic aced its tests, earning a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. This is a huge point for any buyer, especially families.
* Strong Resale Value: A direct result of its reliability is how well it holds its value. You’ll find that a used 2017 Civic often costs more than comparable rivals, because people trust it to last.
Simply put, you can buy this car with confidence, knowing it’s built to be a long-term partner.
Performance That Surprises You
Now, let’s talk about the fun part. The 2017 Civic moved away from being just a simple economy car. It offers engaging performance that will make your daily drive more enjoyable.
The lineup offered three main engine choices:
1. The Standard 2.0-Liter Engine: Found in LX and EX trims, this 158-horsepower engine is peppy and extremely smooth. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a 6-speed manual. It provides more than enough power for merging and passing.
2. The Turbocharged 1.5-Liter Engine: This is the star of the show. Available in EX-T, EX-L, and Touring trims, this turbo engine delivers 174 horsepower and feels much quicker. It has great torque, meaning power is available right when you press the gas, making it feel lively and responsive.
3. The High-Revving Civic Si Engine: For the true enthusiast, the Si model packed a 205-horsepower, 1.5-liter turbo engine exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. It added a limited-slip differential, sport tuning, and sharper handling for a real performance feel.
The handling was also greatly improved. The car feels planted and stable on the highway, while remaining nimble in city traffic and on winding roads. It strikes a near-perfect balance between comfort and sportiness.
A Detailed Look at Trim Levels and Features
The 2017 Civic came in several trims, each adding more features. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the differences.
LX: The base model that was far from basic. It included:
* A 5-inch central screen
* A rearview camera
* Bluetooth connectivity
* Automatic climate control
* A multi-angle rearview camera
EX: This popular trim added significant upgrades:
* The more powerful 1.5L turbo engine
* Honda Sensing® suite of safety features (on CVT models)
* A 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
* A sunroof
* Remote engine start
EX-L: Added luxury touches like:
* Leather-trimmed seats
* A leather-wrapped steering wheel
* An auto-dimming rearview mirror
Touring: The top trim offered everything:
* LED headlights
* Heated rear seats
* A premium audio system
* Built-in navigation
* Gorgeous 18-inch alloy wheels
Civic Coupe and Civic Hatchback: These body styles offered similar trims but with there own unique style and, in the Hatchback’s case, even more cargo flexibility. The Sport trim for the Hatchback was especially popular for its aggressive look.
Step-by-Step: What to Check When Buying a Used 2017 Civic
If you’re considering a used 2017 Civic, here’s a practical checklist. Following these steps can help you find a great example.
1. Review the Vehicle History Report. Always get the VIN and check services like Carfax or AutoCheck. Look for a clean title, regular maintenance records, and no major accidents.
2. Check for Major Recalls. Ensure all open recalls have been addressed. The main one for 2017 Civics involved the parking brake, which needed a software update.
3. Inspect the Exterior and Interior. Look for uneven paint (sign of repair), check that all doors and the trunk open smoothly, and inspect the interior upholstery for excessive wear or stains.
4. Test All Electronics. This is crucial. Test the touchscreen, infotainment system, Bluetooth, every USB port, all speakers, climate controls, and every power accessory (windows, locks, seats).
5. Listen During the Test Drive. Drive on different road types. Listen for any unusual noises from the engine, suspension, or brakes. Notice if the CVT transmission hesitates or “shudders” during acceleration.
6. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection. For a small fee, a trusted independent mechanic can put the car on a lift and give you a professional assessment of its condition. It’s the best money you can spend.
Ownership Costs and Fuel Economy
One of the biggest appeals of the Civic is its affordability to own. It’s not just about the purchase price.
Fuel Economy Highlights:
* 2.0L Engine with CVT: Up to 31 mpg city / 40 mpg highway
* 1.5L Turbo Engine with CVT: Up to 32 mpg city / 42 mpg highway
* 1.5L Turbo Engine with 6-Speed Manual: Slightly lower, but still excellent.
These numbers mean you’ll spend less at the pump compared to many other compact sedans, especially those that require premium fuel (the Civic’s engines run fine on regular).
Maintenance is straightforward. Following the factory Maintenance Minder system is key. Common routine costs include:
* Oil changes every 7,500-10,000 miles
* Tire rotations
* Cabin and engine air filter replacements
* Brake fluid changes every 3 years
Parts are widely available and relatively inexpensive, and any mechanic can work on it. This keeps long-term costs very predictable.
Common Issues to Be Aware Of
No car is perfect, and the 2017 Civic has a few known areas where some owners have reported problems. Being informed helps you check for them.
* Infotainment System Glitches: The touchscreen can sometimes freeze, reboot, or have issues with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connecting. A software update from the dealer often fixes this.
* Premature Wear on Paint or Interior Materials: A few owners noted that the paint, especially on the hood, could be susceptible to chips. Some also saw premature wear on the driver’s seat fabric or steering wheel material.
* Rattles and Squeaks: As with many cars, some interior trim pieces may develop minor rattles over time, often fixable with simple adjustments.
* Air Conditioning Condenser Failure: This was a common enough issue that Honda extended the warranty for the A/C condenser on many 2016-2018 models. Check if the car you’re looking at has had this replaced.
Remember, these issues did not affect every single car, but they are good to look out for during your inspection.
How It Compares to Key Rivals
The compact car segment is competitive. Here’s how the 2017 Civic stacked up against two main rivals.
vs. 2017 Toyota Corolla:
* Civic Advantage: More engaging performance, more powerful engines, sportier handling, and a more modern interior design.
* Corolla Advantage: Slightly lower ownership costs in some areas and an unbeatable reputation for bulletproof reliability. The Corolla often felt more basic and less fun to drive.
vs. 2017 Mazda3:
* Civic Advantage: More rear seat and trunk space, better fuel economy with the turbo engine, and a wider dealer network.
* Mazda3 Advantage: Often praised for having a more premium interior feel and handling that is even more sharp and sporty. The infotainment system was less intuitive for some, though.
The Civic’s strength was it’s ability to offer the best balance of all these traits without a major weakness.
The Verdict: Is the 2017 Honda Civic Right for You?
The 2017 Honda Civic remains a fantastic used car choice years later. It delivers on the promise of being a smart, dependable, and surprisingly enjoyable vehicle. It fits a wide range of lifestyles, from students to retirees.
You should seriously consider the 2017 Civic if:
* You want a car that’s cheap to run but not boring to drive.
* You need a practical and safe vehicle for your family.
* You value technology like Apple CarPlay and advanced safety features.
* You plan to keep the car for many years and want minimal headaches.
You might want to look elsewhere if:
* You absolutely require all-wheel drive (it was only front-wheel drive).
* You prefer a softer, more isolated ride over sporty handling.
* You are looking for the absolute lowest purchase price in the segment, where you might find an older Corolla for less.
Ultimately, the 2017 Honda Civic earns its praise. It successfully blends everyday usability with a touch of excitement, all wrapped in a package known for standing the test of time. It’s a decision you’re unlikely to regret.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the 2017 Honda Civic a good car?
A: Yes, it is consistently rated as one of the best compact cars of its year. It offers an excellent mix of reliability, performance, safety, and features.
Q: What are the main problems with the 2017 Honda Civic?
A: The most common issues involve the infotainment system (glitches, freezing) and, for some models, the air conditioning condenser failing. It’s also wise to check for any interior rattles.
Q: Is the 1.5 turbo engine in the 2017 Civic reliable?
A: Generally, yes. The 1.5L turbo engine has proven to be durable. Proper maintenance, like timely oil changes, is crucial for any turbocharged engine. There have been no widespread, major failures associated with this powerplant.
Q: What is the fuel economy of the 2017 Civic?
A: It gets great gas mileage. The most efficient version (1.5L turbo with CVT) is rated for up to 32 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway.
Q: Does the 2017 Civic have Apple CarPlay?
A: Yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on EX trims and above (with the 7-inch touchscreen). The base LX trim does not have this feature.
Q: What is the difference between the 2017 Civic LX and EX?
A: The EX trim adds the more powerful 1.5L turbo engine, Honda Sensing safety suite (on CVT models), a 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration, a sunroof, and remote start. The LX has the 2.0L engine and a simpler 5-inch screen.
Q: How much cargo space does the 2017 Civic sedan have?
A: The sedan offers 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space, which is very good for the class. The Civic Hatchback model offers significantly more, with up to 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.