The 2017 Honda Civic LX is generally a good choice among compact sedans, offering reliability, efficiency, and practicality. It remains a solid option for buyers seeking a dependable used car, though it lacks some of the power and newer tech found in higher trims and in more recent models.
The question merits a closer look at what the Civic LX delivers, how it compares within the Civic lineup, and what it means for a used-car buyer today. Here’s a detailed, journalistic breakdown of its performance, practicality, safety, ownership costs, and overall value.
Performance and power: what you get under the hood
In the 2017 lineup, the LX trim is equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four engine that produces about 158 horsepower. It can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), depending on the configuration and market. The 1.5-liter turbo engine that appears in higher trims delivers noticeably stronger acceleration, but it’s not available on the LX. Gas mileage is one of the Civic’s strong suits, especially with the CVT.
What this means for daily driving
The 2.0L engine is smooth and efficient for city commuting and highway cruising, but it won’t feel as punchy as the turbocharged options in higher trims. The handling remains composed and predictable, which many buyers value for city streets and long highway drives. If you value brisk acceleration, you’ll likely notice a difference when stepping up to EX, EX-L, or Touring with the turbo engine.
Fuel economy and efficiency
The Civic’s overall efficiency remains competitive in the compact class. Expect solid highway numbers and respectable city economy, particularly with the CVT. Real-world mileage varies with driving style, terrain, and maintenance, but the Civic’s reputation for efficiency endures in used-market evaluations.
Interior practicality and everyday comfort
Inside, the Civic offers a roomy cabin for a compact car, with supportive front seats and good legroom. The trunk space is generous for the class, making it a practical choice for small families, groceries, and luggage. Materials are durable and functional, though some trims feel more basic compared with rivals that push higher-end finishes at similar prices.
Cabin features and technology
The LX provides essential tech and convenience features, but it lags behind higher trims that add more advanced infotainment and driver-assistance options. Depending on the market, features such as a larger touchscreen, smartphone integration, and certain safety tech may be optional or limited on the LX. Prospective buyers should verify the specific equipment on any used car and consider a higher trim if tech is a priority.
Safety, reliability, and ownership costs
Honda’s reputation for reliability helps the 2017 Civic LX hold up well over time, provided it is well-maintained. The car has performed well in overall reliability surveys, and parts availability is generally good, which supports lower maintenance costs relative to some rivals. Safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA in the 2017 model year were solid, though trimming with the standard set of active safety features (like Honda Sensing) varied by market and configuration. Always check the specific car’s safety equipment and recall history before purchase.
Ownership costs for a used 2017 Civic LX are typically reasonable. Insurance is generally affordable, and maintenance intervals are standard for a well-maintained Honda. Depreciation has already occurred since the car’s new-vehicle launch, but Civics tend to retain value better than many competitors in the segment when properly cared for.
Pros and cons: a quick view
Pros of the 2017 Honda Civic LX:
- Strong reliability and low maintenance costs typical of Honda
- Excellent fuel economy for a non-hybrid compact
- Spacious interior and a generous trunk for its class
- Balanced ride and composed handling for daily driving
- Competitive resale value when properly maintained
In short, these strengths make the LX a practical daily driver and a good value in the used-car market for buyers prioritizing efficiency and practicality.
Cons of the 2017 Honda Civic LX:
- 2.0L engine is less powerful than the turbo 1.5L available in higher trims
- Infotainment and optional tech can feel basic or less intuitive on the LX
- Some safety tech may be optional or unavailable on the base trim
- Interior materials and perceived premium feel are not as upscale as some rivals
- Road noise can be more noticeable on certain road surfaces at highway speeds
Overall, if you want the most punchy performance or the newest tech, you’ll want to consider a higher trim or a more modern model. If you’re after reliability, efficiency, and practicality on a budget, the LX remains a strong contender.
Used-car considerations and who should buy
For buyers shopping in the used-car market, the 2017 Civic LX offers a favorable package, especially for first-time buyers, small families, or commuters who prioritize efficiency and low operating costs. Always obtain a full vehicle history report, a pre-purchase inspection, and a thorough check of the CVT or manual transmission condition (depending on the car’s original spec). Look for documented maintenance, a clean recall history, and a test drive that confirms the expected power delivery and ride quality.
Tip for shoppers
Compare trims and options carefully. If you value driver-assistance features, verify whether Honda Sensing and related safety tech were equipped on the specific vehicle you’re considering or whether opting for a higher trim is worthwhile for your budget.
Bottom line: who benefits most from a 2017 Civic LX?
The 2017 Civic LX is best suited for buyers who want a dependable, economical compact that’s easy to live with day to day. It excels as a practical family car, a commuter’s ally, and a used-car option with strong resale value. If you crave stronger acceleration, newer tech, or advanced safety features as standard, you may prefer a higher trim or a newer model.
Summary
In summary, the 2017 Honda Civic LX remains a solid, reliable choice in the used-car market. It offers efficient performance, ample interior space, and a reputation for longevity, making it a sensible pick for budget-conscious buyers who value practicality. Its main trade-offs are modest power compared with turbo trims and features that may be more basic than newer rivals. For many buyers, the LX hits a sweet spot between cost and capability—especially when paired with diligent maintenance and a careful pre-purchase evaluation.
How long will a 2017 Honda Civic LX last?
If you're asking “How many miles does a Honda Civic last?”—the answer is simple: with proper care, a Honda Civic can easily last over 200,000 miles, and many even reach 300,000 miles or more.
What does lx mean in Civic lx?
The LX is Honda's basic level trim line (and stands for “Luxury” in Honda's naming conventions) and is packed with dependability and all the basics. The EX is a step up for Honda, with upgraded tech, comfort, and safety. Let's dive into the differences in models like the Civic and Accord to help you choose a trim.
How reliable is the 2017 Honda Civic LX?
The 2017 Civic has about average reliability compared to other cars from the same model year.
What is the best year of the Honda Civic LX?
The most reliable Honda Civic years are 2012-2015 & 2020-2024, with good fuel economy, safety ratings, & features. These model years can last 200,000-300,000 miles without major issues. Avoid the years 2001, 2003-2006, 2009, & 2011 because of transmission failures, engine block cracks, and airbag recalls.