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2017 Honda Civic Si: First Look, Specs & Features
2017 Honda Civic Si: Turbocharged Performance Meets Everyday Practicality
The 2017 Honda Civic Si marked an exciting evolution in Honda's sport compact lineup, reintroducing the beloved performance variant after skipping the 2016 model year. Positioned between the standard Civic and the track-focused Type R, the Si delivers an engaging driving experience while maintaining everyday usability. With its first-ever turbocharged engine, aggressive styling, and sport-tuned dynamics, the Civic Si competes strongly against rivals like the Ford Focus ST, Hyundai Elantra Sport, and Mazda3.
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Key Highlights:
- First turbocharged engine in Civic Si history
- 205 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque
- Exclusive sport-tuned suspension with adaptive dampers
- Available in both coupe and sedan body styles
- Premium interior with sport seats and performance-oriented details
- Starting price in the mid-$20,000 range
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Exterior Design: Aggressive Styling Meets Aerodynamic Efficiency
The 2017 Civic Si builds on the tenth-generation Civic's sharp design language while adding distinctive performance cues. Both coupe and sedan variants feature model-exclusive styling elements that set them apart from standard Civics while improving aerodynamic performance.
Standout Exterior Features:
- Front fascia: Black lower body element with enlarged side intakes for improved cooling
- Wheels: Exclusive 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels with low-profile tires
- Two-tone paint: Unique color combinations with black accents
- Rear design: Chrome center-mounted exhaust, large side vents, and decklid spoiler (sedan) or full-width light bar with raised spoiler (coupe)
Honda engineers focused on weight reduction and structural rigidity, making this generation significantly lighter than its predecessor while improving torsional stiffness for better handling precision.
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Performance: Turbocharged Power and Precision Handling
The 2017 Civic Si represents a major shift in Honda's performance philosophy, abandoning the traditional high-revving naturally aspirated engines for forced induction. The result is a more accessible powerband with strong torque throughout the rev range.
| Engine Specification | 2017 Civic Si | Standard Civic (LX) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder | 2.0L Naturally Aspirated 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 205 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | 192 lb-ft | 138 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual or CVT |
Performance Enhancements:
- Sport-tuned suspension: Firmer springs and dampers for flatter cornering
- Adaptive damper system: Automatically adjusts to road conditions (shared with Type R)
- Upgraded brakes: 12.3-inch front rotors for improved stopping power
- Drive modes: Normal and Sport settings alter throttle response, steering weight, and suspension firmness
- Agile Handling Assist: Uses brake vectoring to improve cornering stability
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Interior: Sporty Comfort with Modern Tech
While maintaining the Civic's reputation for practicality, the Si adds performance-focused details and premium materials throughout the cabin. The interior strikes an excellent balance between daily comfort and driver engagement.
Interior Highlights:
- Sport seats: Heated front seats with enhanced bolstering and red contrast stitching
- Driver-focused cockpit: Red TFT display in gauge cluster, aluminum sport pedals
- Premium touches: Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift boot, aluminum shift knob
- Technology: 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 450-watt 10-speaker audio system
- Convenience: Remote start, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers
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How the Civic Si Compares to Key Rivals
The sport compact segment offers several compelling alternatives to the Civic Si. Here's how Honda's offering stacks up against its closest competitors:
| Model | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Honda Civic Si | 1.5L Turbo 4-cyl | 205 hp | 192 lb-ft | $24,775 |
| Ford Focus ST | 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl | 252 hp | 270 lb-ft | $24,775 |
| Hyundai Elantra Sport | 1.6L Turbo 4-cyl | 201 hp | 195 lb-ft | $22,335 |
| Mazda3 Grand Touring | 2.5L 4-cyl | 184 hp | 185 lb-ft | $24,045 |
Competitive Advantages:
- Balance of power and efficiency: The Civic Si's small-displacement turbo delivers strong performance while maintaining good fuel economy
- Adaptive suspension: Rare in this price segment, offering both comfort and performance
- Body style options: Available as both coupe and sedan, unlike some competitors
- Honda reliability: Strong reputation for long-term durability and resale value
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Driving Experience: Engaging Yet Practical
Behind the wheel, the 2017 Civic Si delivers an engaging experience that remains comfortable enough for daily commuting. The turbocharged engine provides strong mid-range torque, eliminating the need to rev the engine aggressively for power. The six-speed manual transmission features precise, short throws with positive engagement.
Honda's attention to chassis dynamics shines through in the Si's handling. The sport-tuned suspension reduces body roll significantly compared to standard Civics, while the adaptive dampers provide a surprisingly compliant ride in Normal mode. Switching to Sport mode transforms the car's character, with quicker throttle response, heavier steering, and firmer damping for spirited driving.
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Notable Driving Characteristics:
- Steering: Direct and communicative, with good feedback
- Shifter: One of the best manual transmissions in the segment
- Braking: Strong stopping power with good pedal feel
- NVH: Well-controlled road noise for a sport-oriented car
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
While focused on performance, the Civic Si doesn't compromise on safety. Honda equipped the Si with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including:
- Advanced compatibility engineering (ACE) body structure: Enhanced crash protection
- Multi-angle rearview camera: Standard across all trims
- Agile Handling Assist: Improves stability during aggressive driving
- Excellent visibility: Low beltline and thin pillars provide good outward visibility
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Ownership Experience: Value and Practicality
The Civic Si delivers strong value in the sport compact segment, offering performance upgrades while maintaining Honda's reputation for reliability and low ownership costs. Key ownership considerations include:
Ownership Highlights:
- Fuel economy: EPA-rated at 28 mpg city/38 mpg highway/32 mpg combined
- Warranty: Honda's 3-year/36,000-mile basic and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage
- Cargo space: 15.1 cubic feet (sedan) or 11.9 cubic feet (coupe)
- Rear seat room: Surprisingly spacious for a performance-oriented car
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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the 2017 Civic Si?
The 2017 Honda Civic Si represents an excellent choice for driving enthusiasts who want:
- A balanced daily driver with sporty character
- Engaging manual transmission in an increasingly automatic world
- Honda reliability with performance credentials
- More accessible performance than the extreme Type R
- The option of coupe or sedan body styles
While competitors like the Ford Focus ST offer more outright power, the Civic Si counters with superior refinement, adaptive suspension, and Honda's reputation for quality. For drivers seeking an engaging yet practical sport compact, the 2017 Civic Si remains a compelling choice that delivers on the promise of sporty performance without sacrificing everyday usability.
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motorverorachael
Last Updated On Sep, 02-2025