Alright, car enthusiasts, let's talk about the 2017 Honda Civic! This model year was a big deal for the Civic, and for good reason. It brought a fresh design, updated technology, and a lineup of engines that made it a serious contender in the compact car segment. So, if you're curious about what made the 2017 Civic tick, you've come to the right place. We're going to dive deep into its specifications, features, and everything else you need to know. Get ready to geek out with us!

Powertrain and Performance: What's Under the Hood?

First things first, let's pop the hood and see what kind of power the 2017 Honda Civic offered. Honda gave buyers options, catering to both fuel efficiency and performance desires. The base engine was a 2.0-liter inline-4, delivering a respectable 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. It's a solid choice for everyday driving, providing peppy acceleration and decent fuel economy. The other engine option was a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-4, which cranked out 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque (or 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft in the EX-L and Touring trims). This turbo engine was a game-changer, offering a significant boost in performance and making the Civic feel genuinely sporty.

Transmission choices included a six-speed manual (available on some trims) and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The manual transmission gives you that classic, engaging driving experience, while the CVT is smooth and efficient, maximizing fuel economy. The CVT is the more common choice, and it's well-tuned for the Civic, providing responsive acceleration without feeling sluggish. In terms of fuel economy, the 2017 Civic excelled. The base 2.0-liter engine with the CVT achieved around 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The turbo engines, with the CVT, still delivered impressive fuel efficiency, with ratings around 31 mpg combined. This combination of performance and fuel economy made the 2017 Civic a great choice for both daily commutes and weekend road trips. The Civic's suspension was also well-regarded, providing a comfortable ride while still maintaining good handling and control. The steering was precise, making the car feel nimble and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Engine Options Breakdown

• 2.0-liter Inline-4: 158 horsepower, 138 lb-ft torque. Great for daily driving and fuel economy.
• 1.5-liter Turbo Inline-4: 174-180 horsepower, 162-177 lb-ft torque. Offers a sportier feel and enhanced performance.

Trim Levels and Features: Which Civic is Right for You?

The 2017 Honda Civic was available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. Understanding these trims will help you decide which one best suits your needs and budget. The base trim, the LX, came with essential features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a five-inch display screen. It's a solid starting point if you're looking for a reliable and affordable car.

Stepping up to the EX trim added features like a seven-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and keyless entry with push-button start. This trim offers a significant upgrade in terms of technology and convenience. The EX-T trim added the 1.5-liter turbo engine, along with features like heated front seats and a moonroof. This is a great choice if you want a bit more performance and luxury. The EX-L trim built upon the EX-T, adding leather upholstery and other premium touches. The Touring trim was the top-of-the-line offering, with features like LED headlights, a premium audio system, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The Touring trim provides a truly premium experience.

Notable Trim Features

• LX: Base model, essential features like rearview camera and Bluetooth.
• EX: Upgraded infotainment with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
• EX-T: Turbocharged engine, heated front seats, and a moonroof.
• EX-L: Leather upholstery.
• Touring: Top-of-the-line, advanced safety features, premium audio, and LED headlights.

Interior and Exterior Design: Style and Substance

Beyond the specs, the 2017 Honda Civic boasted a stylish and modern design. Honda made significant changes to the Civic's design for this generation, giving it a sleeker and more aggressive look. The exterior featured sharp lines, a sloping roofline (especially in the sedan and coupe body styles), and distinctive LED daytime running lights (on some trims). The overall design was a major departure from the previous generation, making the 2017 Civic stand out from the crowd. Inside, the Civic offered a spacious and well-designed cabin. The dashboard was clean and uncluttered, with a focus on ease of use. The seats were comfortable, and the materials used were of good quality, especially in the higher trim levels. The infotainment system, while not perfect, was a significant improvement over previous Honda systems, with a responsive touchscreen and intuitive menus.

Design Highlights

• Exterior: Sleek, modern design with sharp lines and available LED lighting.
• Interior: Spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and a user-friendly dashboard.

Technology and Safety: Keeping You Connected and Protected

The 2017 Honda Civic came equipped with a range of technology and safety features designed to keep you connected and protected on the road. The infotainment system, as mentioned earlier, offered features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. This means you could access your favorite apps, make calls, and navigate using your phone's interface on the car's touchscreen. Honda also included a range of safety features, including a rearview camera, which is now standard on most new cars.

Higher trim levels offered advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These features use sensors and cameras to monitor the road and can help prevent accidents. The 2017 Civic also earned top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. Honda's commitment to safety extends beyond just features. The Civic is built with a strong and rigid body structure, designed to absorb impact energy and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The car's airbags are strategically placed to provide maximum protection. The 2017 Civic also offers a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, which can help prevent accidents. These features include: collision mitigation braking system, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision; forward collision warning, which alerts the driver to a potential collision; and lane departure warning, which alerts the driver if the car is drifting out of its lane. All of these features are designed to make the 2017 Honda Civic one of the safest cars on the road.

Safety and Tech Roundup

• Infotainment: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto.
• Safety: Standard rearview camera, available adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning.

Driving Experience: What's it Like Behind the Wheel?

So, what's it actually like to drive the 2017 Honda Civic? Well, the driving experience is one of the Civic's strong suits. The car is known for its responsive handling, comfortable ride, and overall refinement. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, making the car feel confident and controlled on the road. The suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps and imperfections, providing a comfortable ride even on rough surfaces. The turbo engines provide plenty of power for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles. The CVT transmissions, while sometimes criticized, are well-matched to the engines, providing smooth and efficient acceleration. The manual transmission option gives you more control and a sportier feel. The Civic's interior is also well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise, making for a quieter and more pleasant driving experience. Overall, the 2017 Honda Civic offers a well-rounded driving experience that is both engaging and comfortable.

Driving Dynamics

• Handling: Responsive and precise steering.
• Ride Quality: Comfortable ride, well-damped suspension.
• Performance: Peppy acceleration with the turbo engines.

Common Problems and Issues: What to Watch Out For?

No car is perfect, and the 2017 Honda Civic is no exception. While generally reliable, there are a few potential issues that owners should be aware of. One common issue is related to the infotainment system. Some owners have reported problems with the touchscreen freezing or becoming unresponsive. There are also reports of issues with the Bluetooth connectivity. Another potential problem area is the CVT transmission. While generally reliable, some owners have reported issues like shuddering or jerky shifts.

It's important to note that these issues are not widespread, and many owners have had no problems at all. However, it's a good idea to be aware of these potential issues when considering buying a used 2017 Civic. The best thing to do is research and have a mechanic check the vehicle before you buy it. Checking for any recalls related to the specific vehicle and its VIN number is always a good practice. Overall, the 2017 Honda Civic is a reliable car, but being aware of the potential issues can help you make an informed decision.

Potential Issues

• Infotainment: Touchscreen freezing, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
• Transmission: CVT transmission issues (shuddering, jerky shifts).

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Honda Civic a Good Buy?

So, the big question: Is the 2017 Honda Civic a good buy? Absolutely, yes! It's a fantastic compact car that offers a great combination of performance, fuel efficiency, technology, and safety. Its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience make it a joy to own and drive. Whether you're looking for a practical daily driver or a fun weekend car, the 2017 Civic is a strong contender. Just make sure to do your research, inspect any potential vehicle thoroughly, and consider any potential issues. Overall, the 2017 Honda Civic is a solid choice and a car that is worth considering if you're in the market for a used compact car. You will be very satisfied. Happy driving!