Let's dive into the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback, a car that blends practicality with a dash of fun. For those in the market for a reliable, versatile, and sporty ride, this model year of the Civic Hatchback is well worth considering. In this article, we're going to explore everything from its performance and design to its interior features and overall driving experience, giving you a comprehensive look at what makes the 2017 Civic Sport Hatchback stand out.

Performance and Engine

When we talk about the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback, performance is definitely a highlight. Under the hood, you'll find a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. This peppy engine delivers around 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. What's great about this engine is its responsiveness and fuel efficiency. Whether you're cruising around town or hitting the open road, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost that makes driving enjoyable.

The Sport trim also features a uniquely tuned suspension and steering system compared to other trims in the Civic Hatchback lineup. This means you get a slightly firmer ride and more precise handling, making it more engaging for those who enjoy a spirited drive. The 6-speed manual transmission is a real treat for enthusiasts, offering smooth and precise shifts. If you prefer an automatic, the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is also available, which is engineered to mimic gear changes, providing a more natural feel than some other CVTs on the market.

Fuel economy is another area where the 2017 Civic Sport Hatchback shines. With the manual transmission, you can expect to see around 30 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The CVT improves these figures slightly, offering around 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. This combination of performance and efficiency makes it a great daily driver that won't break the bank at the gas pump.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback is undoubtedly one of its most striking features. This car sports an aggressive and modern look that sets it apart from more mundane hatchbacks. The Civic Hatchback, in general, boasts a sleek, aerodynamic profile with sharp lines and a low stance. But the Sport trim kicks it up a notch with several distinctive elements.

One of the most noticeable features is the center-mounted dual exhaust outlets. These not only look cool but also give the car a sporty edge. The gloss black rear diffuser complements the exhaust outlets, adding to the aggressive aesthetic. Up front, the Sport trim features a unique black grille and a more aggressive front bumper design. These elements combine to give the car a bolder and more assertive presence on the road.

The 2017 Civic Sport Hatchback also comes with standard 18-inch alloy wheels, which fill the wheel wells nicely and enhance the car's sporty stance. The overall design is further enhanced by the standard fog lights and rear roofline spoiler. Available colors range from vibrant hues to more subdued tones, allowing buyers to choose a look that suits their personal style. The hatchback design isn't just for looks, either. It provides a large cargo area that's easily accessible, making it a practical choice for hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment.

Overall, the exterior design of the 2017 Civic Sport Hatchback is a well-executed blend of sporty aesthetics and functional design. It's a car that looks good whether it's parked in your driveway or cruising down the highway.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback, you'll find an interior that is both functional and well-designed. The cabin prioritizes comfort and usability, making it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. The Sport trim adds a few unique touches that set it apart from the other Civic Hatchback models.

The seats in the Sport trim are well-bolstered, providing good support during spirited driving. The red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and shift knob (on manual transmission models) adds a sporty flair to the interior. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with most controls within easy reach of the driver. The 7-inch touchscreen display is the centerpiece of the infotainment system, offering access to audio, smartphone integration, and vehicle settings.

Standard features on the 2017 Civic Sport Hatchback include a multi-angle rearview camera, automatic climate control, and a USB audio interface. The infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of your smartphone apps for navigation, music, and communication. The Sport trim also includes an upgraded audio system with more powerful speakers, providing a richer and more immersive sound experience.

In terms of space, the Civic Hatchback excels. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom for adult passengers, and the hatchback design provides a generous cargo area. With the rear seats up, you get about 25.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This makes the Civic Hatchback a practical choice for those who need to haul larger items.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback is where this car truly shines. It strikes a great balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort, making it an enjoyable car to drive in a variety of situations. The responsive engine, well-tuned suspension, and precise steering contribute to an engaging driving experience that sets it apart from many other cars in its class.

The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides plenty of power for both city and highway driving. The turbocharger kicks in quickly, delivering a noticeable boost that makes acceleration feel effortless. The 6-speed manual transmission is a joy to use, with smooth and precise shifts that allow you to fully exploit the engine's power. The CVT, while not as engaging as the manual, is still a good option for those who prefer an automatic. It's programmed to mimic gear changes, which helps to avoid the droning sound that some CVTs are known for.

The Sport trim's suspension is firmer than the standard Civic Hatchback, which results in improved handling and reduced body roll in corners. The steering is also more precise, providing good feedback and making it easy to place the car exactly where you want it. Despite the firmer suspension, the ride is still comfortable enough for daily driving. It absorbs bumps and potholes well, without feeling harsh or jarring.

Another aspect of the driving experience that stands out is the Civic's overall refinement. The cabin is relatively quiet, with minimal wind and road noise. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The controls are easy to use, and the visibility is good in all directions. All of these factors combine to create a driving experience that is both enjoyable and relaxing.

Reliability and Safety

Reliability and safety are critical factors to consider when purchasing any vehicle. The 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback has a solid reputation for reliability, and it comes with a range of safety features that provide peace of mind. Honda has a long history of building dependable vehicles, and the Civic is no exception. According to various sources, the 2017 Civic has received positive reliability ratings, with owners reporting few major issues.

In terms of safety, the 2017 Civic Hatchback comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. It also features a multi-angle rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and safer. Higher trim levels offer additional safety features such as Honda Sensing, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.

The 2017 Civic Hatchback has also performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It has earned top ratings in several categories, indicating that it provides excellent protection for occupants in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback is a safe and reliable vehicle that offers peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

Conclusion

The 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback is a compelling choice for anyone seeking a versatile, fun-to-drive, and practical vehicle. Its turbocharged engine delivers a great balance of performance and fuel efficiency, while its sporty suspension and precise steering make it a joy to drive. The exterior design is eye-catching and aggressive, and the interior is comfortable and well-equipped. With its spacious cargo area and available technology features, the Civic Hatchback is also a practical choice for everyday use.

While it may not be the flashiest or most luxurious car on the market, the 2017 Civic Sport Hatchback offers a winning combination of features, performance, and value. Its reliability and safety ratings are also strong, making it a smart choice for those who prioritize peace of mind. If you're in the market for a compact hatchback, the 2017 Honda Civic Sport Hatchback is definitely worth considering. It's a car that delivers on its promises and provides a satisfying driving experience that you'll appreciate every time you get behind the wheel.