Hey car enthusiasts, gather 'round! Today, we're diving deep into a ride that really shook things up in the compact car segment: the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback. If you're looking for a car that blends practicality with a dash of sporty flair, then this is definitely one you'll want to check out. Honda really hit it out of the park with this generation of the Civic, and the Sport Hatchback variant offers a compelling package for those who want a bit more versatility and a more aggressive look without breaking the bank. Let's get into what makes this car a standout choice for many drivers.

Performance and Handling: More Than Just Looks

So, what's under the hood of the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback? Well, it's not just about the slick styling, guys. This hatchback comes equipped with a lively 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. Now, it might not have the turbo punch of some of its siblings, but it still delivers a respectable 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. This is more than enough oomph for your daily commute, spirited drives on winding roads, and even for merging onto the highway with confidence. What's really cool is how Honda tunes its engines; they always feel responsive and eager, and the Civic Sport is no exception. You'll appreciate the smooth power delivery, especially when paired with either the standard six-speed manual transmission or the available continuously variable transmission (CVT). The manual, in particular, gives you that engaging, connected-to-the-road feel that many driving purists crave. It's precise, the clutch is well-weighted, and the gear changes are satisfyingly crisp. If you're someone who enjoys the act of driving, the manual transmission in the Civic Sport is a treat. The CVT, on the other hand, is optimized for fuel efficiency and provides a smooth, seamless acceleration experience, making it a great choice for city driving and long highway stints where you just want to cruise.

The handling is where the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback truly shines. Honda's chassis engineers worked wonders, giving this car a remarkably balanced and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to be firm enough to minimize body roll during cornering, giving you that planted feel when you're pushing it a bit. Yet, it's not so stiff that it becomes uncomfortable over everyday bumps and imperfections. You get a great blend of sporty dynamics and everyday usability. The steering is also a highlight; it's direct, responsive, and provides good feedback, allowing you to place the car exactly where you want it on the road. This makes navigating tight city streets or tackling twisty country lanes a joy. The independent rear suspension contributes significantly to the car's agile handling and stable ride. Even when the road gets a bit rough, the Civic Sport Hatchback remains composed, absorbing impacts without feeling unsettled. It’s this kind of refined handling that makes you want to take the long way home, just to enjoy the drive a little more. Whether you're a seasoned driver or new to the road, the intuitive and engaging handling characteristics of the Civic Sport will impress you. It feels confidence-inspiring, and that's a big win in any vehicle.

Exterior Design: Sporty and Practical

The exterior of the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback is where its 'Sport' designation really comes to life. Honda gave the hatchback a distinct look that sets it apart from its sedan and coupe counterparts. The front fascia features a more aggressive bumper design and sporty grille elements. The headlights are sharp and modern, giving it a determined gaze. But the real magic happens at the rear. The hatchback's sloping roofline, combined with a more pronounced rear spoiler and a unique bumper with faux air vents, gives it a genuinely sporty and dynamic profile. It looks purposeful and ready for action, even when it's just parked. The specific Sport trim often comes with distinctive wheels, usually 18-inch alloys, that further enhance its aggressive stance. The dual-outlet center exhaust is another visual cue that screams 'sporty,' adding a premium touch and hinting at the performance within. It's not overly gaudy; instead, it’s a tastefully executed design that appeals to a wide range of tastes, blending sportiness with the inherent practicality of a hatchback. The proportions are spot on, with a wide stance and short overhangs that contribute to its athletic appearance.

Beyond the aggressive styling, the hatchback body style itself offers tremendous versatility. The rear liftgate opens wide, providing easy access to a surprisingly spacious cargo area. This is where the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback truly excels over its sedan siblings. Need to haul groceries, luggage for a weekend trip, sports equipment, or even flat-pack furniture? The Civic Sport Hatchback can handle it with ease. The rear seats fold down, typically in a 60/40 split configuration, creating a large, flat load floor that significantly expands cargo capacity. This makes it an incredibly practical choice for active individuals, small families, or anyone who regularly needs to carry more than just a few bags. The integrated cargo cover helps keep your belongings private and out of sight, and there are plenty of tie-down points to secure your load. The overall design isn't just about looking good; it's about delivering on the promise of a practical and versatile vehicle that also happens to be incredibly fun to drive. The thoughtful integration of the hatchback design means you don't have to sacrifice style for utility, or vice versa.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Well-Equipped Cabin

Step inside the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback, and you'll find an interior that is both modern and driver-focused. Honda has always been known for creating functional and well-built interiors, and this Civic is a prime example. The Sport trim level typically adds some unique touches to enhance the sporty feel. You might find sport pedals, red accent stitching on the seats and steering wheel, and unique interior trim pieces. The seats themselves are comfortable and supportive, offering good bolstering to keep you in place during spirited driving. The driving position is excellent, with a good range of adjustability for both the seat and the steering wheel, allowing drivers of all sizes to find their ideal position. Visibility is generally good, with large windows and a relatively low beltline, contributing to that confident, open feel.

In terms of technology, the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback comes reasonably well-equipped for its time. The centerpiece of the dashboard is the touchscreen infotainment system. While the interface might feel a bit dated by today's standards, it generally handles the basics well, offering features like Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, and a rearview camera for added safety. Higher trims or optional packages might include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which are game-changers for smartphone users, allowing seamless access to navigation, music, and messaging apps directly through the car's display. USB ports are strategically placed for easy access. You'll also find automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, and a multi-function steering wheel that puts controls for audio, cruise control, and phone right at your fingertips. Honda's thoughtful ergonomics mean that most controls are intuitive and easy to reach, minimizing driver distraction. The digital driver's display provides clear and concise information, keeping you informed without overwhelming you. It’s a cabin designed to make every drive, whether short or long, as comfortable and connected as possible. The materials used are generally of good quality for the class, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas, contributing to a feeling of solidity and refinement.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road

When it comes to safety, the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback doesn't skimp. Honda prioritizes the safety of its occupants, and this model reflects that commitment. It’s built on a strong chassis that incorporates Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, designed to improve crash energy absorption and dispersion, providing enhanced protection for occupants in various collision scenarios. Standard safety equipment includes a suite of airbags, including front, side, and side-curtain airbags, designed to cushion occupants in the event of an impact. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and brake assist are also standard, ensuring you can stop effectively in emergencies. Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control is another crucial standard feature, helping to prevent skids and maintain control, especially in slippery conditions or during aggressive maneuvers. The car also comes with a multi-angle rearview camera, which is invaluable for parking and reversing safely.

For those looking for even more advanced safety technologies, Honda offered its Honda Sensing™ suite of driver-assistive technologies as an option or on higher trims. This comprehensive package is truly a game-changer for safety and convenience. It typically includes features like Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), which can alert you to potential frontal collisions and even apply the brakes automatically if necessary. Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) help you stay within your lane, providing gentle steering corrections if you start to drift unintentionally. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) allows you to set a desired speed and following distance from the car ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to maintain that distance, significantly reducing driver fatigue on long journeys. These advanced systems work together to create a more aware and safer driving experience, providing an extra layer of confidence and peace of mind for you and your passengers. The 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback aims to protect you not just from collisions but also to help prevent them from happening in the first place, making it a smart choice for safety-conscious buyers.

Fuel Efficiency: Practical for Everyday Use

Let's talk about one of the most important aspects for many drivers: fuel efficiency. The 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback offers a great balance between performance and economy, making it a practical choice for your everyday driving needs. With the 2.0-liter engine, you can expect solid fuel economy figures. When paired with the CVT, the EPA estimates generally hover around 30-31 mpg in the city and 40-41 mpg on the highway. These are impressive numbers for a car that still offers a good amount of power and cargo space. Even with the six-speed manual transmission, which tends to be slightly less fuel-efficient, you're still looking at very respectable ratings, often in the 28-29 mpg city and 36-37 mpg highway range. These figures mean fewer stops at the gas station and more money in your pocket, which is always a win.

What contributes to these excellent fuel economy ratings? A combination of factors, really. The Civic's aerodynamic design plays a significant role, minimizing drag. The efficient engineering of the 2.0-liter engine itself is designed for optimal fuel combustion. Furthermore, the lightweight construction of the vehicle helps reduce the energy required to move it. For the CVT models, the transmission's ability to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range most of the time is key. Honda also incorporates features like an Eco Assist™ system, which provides visual feedback on your driving style to help you maximize fuel efficiency. By encouraging smoother acceleration and braking, the Eco Assist can help drivers achieve even better mileage. These fuel-saving capabilities make the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback an economical choice for both daily commuting and longer road trips, proving that you don't have to sacrifice fun for frugality. It’s a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess that they can deliver a car that is both engaging to drive and kind to your wallet and the environment.

Conclusion: A Smart Choice for Versatility and Fun

So, there you have it, guys! The 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback is a truly compelling package that offers a fantastic blend of sporty driving dynamics, practical versatility, modern features, and excellent fuel economy. It stands out in a crowded segment for good reason. Whether you're a student looking for a reliable and stylish ride, a young professional needing a versatile commuter, or simply someone who appreciates a well-engineered car that's fun to drive, the Civic Sport Hatchback deserves serious consideration. Its aggressive styling turns heads, the engaging handling makes every drive enjoyable, and the practical cargo space means you don't have to compromise on your lifestyle. Add in Honda's reputation for reliability and strong resale value, and you've got a winner on your hands. If you're in the market for a compact hatchback that delivers on all fronts, make sure to put the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback at the top of your list. You won't be disappointed!