The 2017 Honda Civic 1.5 Turbo represents a significant evolution for the iconic compact sedan, blending everyday practicality with engaging performance. This model year marked the arrival of a modern turbocharged engine that delivered on promises of efficiency and power without sacrificing the Civic's renowned reliability. Owners found a vehicle that commutes effortlessly yet responds eagerly when the road demands more.
Design and Exterior Refinements
For 2017, the Civic received a subtle yet impactful exterior refresh that enhanced its athletic stance. The front fascia features a more aggressive grille and refined LED headlights, projecting a sharper and more premium appearance. These design cues, combined with updated taillights, create a cohesive look that distinguishes the Sport and higher trims housing the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.
Performance and Engineering
The 1.5L Turbocharged Engine
At the heart of this model is a 1.5-liter direct-injected turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a major upgrade over the previous naturally aspirated 2.4L unit. Producing 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, this powerplant provides a noticeable boost in acceleration while maintaining respectable fuel economy. The engine pairs seamlessly with either a CVT or a six-speed manual transmission, catering to both comfort and driving enthusiasts.
Handling and Dynamics
Honda’s engineers focused on sharpening the chassis response to match the new powertrain. The steering feels more connected, and the suspension tuning strikes a firm yet comfortable balance, effectively minimizing body roll during cornering. This combination transforms the Civic from a mere commuter into a car that feels planted and confident on winding roads, without resorting to a harsh ride.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior of the 2017 Civic is a testament to Honda’s commitment to quality within its class. Materials feel more upscale, and the cabin layout is intuitive, placing controls within easy reach. The seats offer ample support for daily driving, and the rear seating remains surprisingly spacious for passengers, ensuring comfort on longer journeys.
Infotainment and Features
The updated HondaLink system takes center stage, featuring a larger touchscreen display that integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This connectivity allows for seamless smartphone integration, providing access to navigation, music, and calls through a familiar interface. Higher trims add premium touches like leather-wrapped steering wheels, heated front seats, and a power liftgate, enhancing the overall ownership experience.
Fuel Economy and Practicality
One of the Turbo’s strongest selling points is its efficiency. The combination of the small displacement turbo, direct injection, and advanced engineering results in EPA-estimated ratings of around 30 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. This translates to fewer stops at the pump without sacrificing daily usability, making it an ideal choice for both urban and highway driving.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a cornerstone of the Civic’s design, and the 2017 model is no exception. It comes standard with Honda Sensing, a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies. This package includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and road departure mitigation, collectively working to prevent accidents and reduce driver fatigue on long trips.
