Introduction
The 2017 Honda Civic remains one of the smartest compact car purchases you can make today, whether you’re buying new or used. When Honda completely redesigned the Civic in 2016, it raised the bar for the entire compact segment — and the 2017 model year built on that success with refinements that made it even more compelling. Sleek styling, a turbocharged engine lineup, a tech-packed interior, and outstanding reliability all come standard on the 2017 Honda Civic.
In this in-depth review, we’ll cover everything you need to know: 2017 Honda Civic specs, pricing in the USA, fuel economy, interior features, common problems, and whether it’s the right buy for you. By the end, you’ll have a crystal-clear picture of what this car offers and how it compares to the competition.
What Makes the 2017 Honda Civic Stand Out?
The 2017 Honda Civic was a revelation when it arrived. Honda scrapped the outgoing model’s uninspiring design and replaced it with a car that punches well above its price class. The tenth-generation Civic introduced an all-new platform, turbocharged engines, and a cabin that rivals some near-luxury vehicles in terms of fit and finish.
Consumer Reports, one of the most trusted automotive research organizations, praised the Civic for its “car-above-its-class” refinement. It earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), making it a strong choice for safety-conscious buyers.
The result was a car that dominated compact car sales for years and continues to hold its value remarkably well in the used car market.
Also Read: 2026 Honda Civic Si Review: Performance, Specs, and Features
2017 Honda Civic Specs: Full Breakdown
Understanding the 2017 Honda Civic specs helps you choose the right trim and engine for your needs. There are three engine options available across the lineup.
Engine Options and Performance
| Engine | Displacement | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cyl | 1.5L | 174 hp | 162 lb-ft | CVT or 6-speed manual |
| 2.0L Naturally Aspirated 4-cyl | 2.0L | 158 hp | 138 lb-ft | 6-speed manual or CVT |
| 1.5L Turbo (Sport/EX) | 1.5L | 174 hp | 162 lb-ft | CVT |
Note: The base 2.0L engine is exclusive to the LX trim with manual transmission. The Sport and higher trims receive the turbocharged 1.5L engine.
The turbocharged 1.5L engine is the standout choice. It delivers brisk acceleration — 0 to 60 mph in around 7.2 seconds — while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. The engine feels responsive in everyday driving and handles highway merging with confidence.
Also Read: How to Used Toyota RAV4 Complete Buyer’s Guide 2026
Dimensions and Body Styles
The 2017 Honda Civic comes in three body styles: sedan, coupe, and hatchback. Each appeals to a different type of driver.
| Body Style | Length | Width | Height | Cargo Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan | 182.3 in | 70.8 in | 55.7 in | 15.1 cu ft |
| Coupe | 177.3 in | 70.9 in | 55.1 in | 11.8 cu ft |
| Hatchback | 177.9 in | 70.9 in | 56.5 in | 25.7 cu ft (rear seats folded) |
The hatchback is particularly practical, offering significantly more cargo room than the sedan or coupe — making it a great all-rounder for young professionals or small families.
2017 Honda Civic Price in USA: New and Used
When new, the 2017 Honda Civic price in USA ranged from approximately $18,840 for the base LX to over $26,000 for the top-tier Touring trim. Today, in the used car market, prices vary considerably based on mileage, condition, and trim level.
Original MSRP by Trim Level
| Trim Level | Body Style | Original MSRP (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| LX | Sedan / Coupe | $18,840 – $19,640 |
| Sport | Sedan / Coupe | $20,340 – $21,140 |
| EX | Sedan / Coupe / HB | $22,150 – $23,750 |
| EX-L | Sedan / Coupe | $24,110 – $24,810 |
| EX-T | Sedan | $23,150 |
| Touring | Sedan / Coupe | $26,200 – $26,900 |
Note: Prices are approximate original MSRP before taxes and dealer fees. Hatchback trims are slightly different.
Current Used Market Prices (2025 estimates): A well-maintained 2017 Honda Civic with 60,000–80,000 miles typically sells for $14,000–$19,000, depending on trim and region. Lower mileage Touring trims can still command $20,000+. The strong resale value is a testament to the car’s enduring reputation.
For the most current used pricing, tools like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds provide real-time market valuations based on your zip code.
Also Read: What’s the Difference Between AWD vs FWD in 2026?
2017 Honda Civic Fuel Economy: Efficiency That Impresses
One of the most attractive aspects of the 2017 Honda Civic is its fuel economy. The turbocharged 1.5L engine in particular delivers exceptional numbers for a non-hybrid compact car.
Fuel Economy Ratings (EPA Estimates)
| Engine / Trim | City (mpg) | Highway (mpg) | Combined (mpg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Turbo CVT (Sedan) | 32 | 42 | 36 |
| 1.5L Turbo Manual (Sedan) | 30 | 38 | 33 |
| 2.0L NA CVT (LX) | 31 | 40 | 34 |
| 2.0L NA Manual (LX) | 30 | 38 | 33 |
| 1.5L Turbo CVT (Hatchback) | 31 | 40 | 34 |
Source: U.S. Department of Energy – FuelEconomy.gov
The 42 mpg highway rating for the turbocharged CVT sedan is outstanding. In real-world driving, most owners report getting somewhere between 33–38 mpg combined, which aligns closely with EPA figures — a rarity in the automotive world.
At today’s gas prices, this fuel efficiency translates to meaningful savings over time compared to less efficient competitors.
2017 Honda Civic Interior Features: Comfort and Technology
Step inside a 2017 Honda Civic and you’ll immediately notice the quality. The interior feels more premium than the price tag suggests. Materials, layout, and technology all combine to create a genuinely pleasant environment.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2017 Honda Civic interior features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display on most trims (the base LX gets a 5-inch screen). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on the Sport and higher trims — a feature that was far from guaranteed in this class at the time.
Other notable tech features include:
- Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming
- Honda Sensing suite (automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control) available on select trims
- Available navigation system on EX-L and Touring trims
- Wireless charging pad on Touring trim
Passenger Comfort
The rear seat offers more headroom and legroom than the previous-generation Civic, making it genuinely comfortable for adults on longer trips. Front seats are supportive and well-bolstered, with available heating on EX-L and Touring trims.
The Honda Sensing suite is worth highlighting specifically. According to research from the National Safety Council, vehicles equipped with automatic emergency braking experience significantly fewer rear-end collisions. Having this technology available on a compact car at this price point was a major step forward.
Also Read: 2025 Ford Edge Complete Guide to Price, Features, and Specs
2017 Honda Civic Trim Levels: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing the right trim depends on your budget and priorities.
- LX – The entry point. Gets the 2.0L engine, 5-inch display, and Honda Sensing (sedan). Best for budget-conscious buyers.
- Sport – Adds the 1.5L turbo, 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and sport styling. The sweet spot for most buyers.
- EX – Adds a moonroof, Honda Sensing, and upgraded audio. Great all-around value.
- EX-L – Leather seating, heated front seats, and navigation. For those wanting near-luxury feel.
- Touring – The fully loaded flagship. Wireless charging, premium audio, and all available features.
For most used car shoppers, the Sport or EX trim offers the best combination of features and value.
2017 Honda Civic Problems and Reliability: What to Watch For
No car is perfect, and the 2017 Honda Civic problems and reliability record deserves honest examination. The good news: the Civic has an excellent overall reliability record. J.D. Power gave the 2017 Civic above-average scores for initial quality, and long-term owner satisfaction is high.
That said, a few issues have been reported:
Oil Dilution Issue: Owners of turbocharged Civics — particularly in colder climates — reported gasoline mixing with engine oil. Honda acknowledged this and released updated software to partially address it. If you’re buying a used turbo Civic, check service records and ask about this.
CVT Transmission Feedback: Some drivers find the continuously variable transmission (CVT) feels “rubbery” or lacks the responsiveness of a traditional automatic. This is a subjective preference, not a mechanical defect.
Infotainment Glitches: A handful of owners reported touchscreen freezing or connectivity issues. These are typically resolved with software updates.
Recalls: Several minor recalls were issued, primarily related to airbag software and seatbelt pretensioners. Check the NHTSA recall database using the vehicle’s VIN to confirm all recalls have been addressed before purchasing.
Overall, the 2017 Honda Civic reliability record is strong. The 2017 Honda Civic is among the most dependable cars in its class, and with regular maintenance, many examples are approaching and exceeding 150,000 miles without major issues.
How Does the 2017 Honda Civic Compare to Rivals?
The 2017 Honda Civic competes in one of the most hotly contested segments in the automotive world. Here’s how it stacks up against key rivals.
| Feature | 2017 Honda Civic | 2017 Toyota Corolla | 2017 Mazda3 | 2017 VW Jetta |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Price (MSRP) | $18,840 | $18,500 | $18,095 | $17,895 |
| Horsepower (base) | 158 hp | 132 hp | 155 hp | 150 hp |
| Combined MPG (best) | 36 mpg | 32 mpg | 35 mpg | 34 mpg |
| Apple CarPlay | Yes (Sport+) | No | No | No |
| Safety Rating (IIHS) | Top Safety Pick+ | Top Safety Pick | Top Safety Pick+ | Acceptable |
| Cargo (sedan) | 15.1 cu ft | 13.0 cu ft | 12.4 cu ft | 15.7 cu ft |
The 2017 Honda Civic wins in most categories, particularly in powertrain refinement, fuel economy, technology, and safety ratings. The Corolla edges it in reputation for long-term reliability and simplicity, but the Civic’s driving dynamics and feature set make it the more rounded choice.
For a deep dive into the 2017 competitive landscape, Car and Driver’s compact car rankings provide excellent context.
Key Takeaways
Here’s a quick summary of everything you need to know about the 2017 Honda Civic:
- The 2017 Honda Civic is a top-tier compact car with segment-leading refinement and style.
- The turbocharged 1.5L engine delivers an excellent blend of performance and fuel efficiency (up to 42 mpg highway).
- Original MSRP ranged from $18,840 to $26,900; current used prices are typically $14,000–$20,000.
- The interior features class-above quality, with Apple CarPlay and Honda Sensing available.
- Common issues include oil dilution on turbo models and minor infotainment glitches — both manageable.
- Overall reliability is excellent, with many Civics surpassing 200,000 miles with proper care.
- The Sport and EX trims offer the best value for used car buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Honda Civic 2017 a reliable car?
A: Yes, the 2017 Honda Civic has an excellent reliability record. J.D. Power and Consumer Reports both rank it above average for its class. The main concern for used buyers is the oil dilution issue on turbocharged models, which should be confirmed as addressed before purchase.
Q: What is the average cost of a 2017 Honda Civic?
A: In the current used car market, a 2017 Honda Civic typically costs between $14,000 and $20,000 depending on trim level, mileage, and condition. Lower mileage examples in top trims can still approach $22,000. Use Kelley Blue Book for a precise valuation in your area.
Q: How many miles will a 2017 Honda Civic last?
A: With regular maintenance — including oil changes, fluid checks, and timely repairs — a 2017 Honda Civic can realistically reach 200,000 to 250,000 miles. Many well-cared-for examples have already crossed the 150,000-mile mark without major mechanical issues.
Q: What’s the best year to buy a used Honda Civic?
A: The 2016–2021 tenth-generation Civics are widely considered the best used values. The 2017 Honda Civic in particular hits the sweet spot of post-launch refinement (any first-year quirks were sorted out) and relative affordability compared to newer model years.
Q: Which 2017 Honda Civic trim is the best value?
A: The Sport and EX trims offer the best value. The Sport gets the turbocharged engine, Apple CarPlay, and stylish appearance without a huge premium. The EX adds a moonroof and Honda Sensing for buyers who want more safety tech.
Q: Does the 2017 Honda Civic have a turbo engine?
A: Yes. Most 2017 Honda Civic trims — Sport and above — come with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 174 horsepower. The base LX trim uses a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 158 horsepower.
Q: What are the most common 2017 Honda Civic problems?
A: The most cited issues are oil dilution in the turbocharged engine (especially in cold climates), CVT transmission feel disliked by some drivers, and occasional infotainment glitches. These are relatively minor compared to the overall dependability of the platform.
Conclusion
The 2017 Honda Civic is, without question, one of the best compact cars ever made — and it remains a compelling choice in the used car market today. The 2017 Honda Civic delivers a rare combination of engaging design, efficient turbocharged power, a genuinely premium interior, and long-term dependability that competitors struggle to match.
Whether you’re drawn to the 2017 Honda Civic for its fuel economy, its available tech features, or simply its legendary reputation for reliability, you’re unlikely to be disappointed. The key is choosing the right trim for your needs and budget, verifying the vehicle history, and confirming any outstanding recalls are resolved.
At its current used market prices, the 2017 Honda Civic represents outstanding value. It’s the kind of car that earns its reputation not through marketing, but through day-in, day-out performance over hundreds of thousands of miles. If you’re in the market for a dependable, fun-to-drive compact car, the 2017 Honda Civic deserves a spot at the top of your list.
