The 2017 Honda Civic EX is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with i-VTEC and direct injection, delivering roughly 173–174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. It is typically paired with a CVT automatic transmission.
The EX trim sits within Honda’s 10th-generation Civic lineup, which marked a shift toward smaller, turbocharged powerplants designed to balance performance with fuel efficiency. This engine choice helped the Civic offer brisk acceleration without sacrificing economy.
Engine specifications
Here are the core specifications and performance figures for the 1.5L turbo engine in the 2017 Civic EX.
- Engine type: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
- Displacement: 1,498 cc (roughly 1.5 L)
- Valvetrain: i-VTEC with direct injection
- Horsepower: 173–174 hp at about 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 162 lb-ft from approximately 1,700–5,000 rpm
- Turbocharger: Turbocharged for enhanced mid-range torque
- Fuel system: Direct injection
- Transmission: Continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard on the EX
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
- EPA fuel economy (CVT): around 31 mpg city / 40 mpg highway / 35 mpg combined
In summary, the EX’s 1.5L turbo engine delivers a blend of spirited on-road acceleration and efficient highway cruising, which has been a hallmark of the Civic’s modern design philosophy.
How this engine fits into the Civic lineup
To put the EX engine in context, Honda offered a different powerplant in other trims. The LX, for example, uses a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-4, while higher trims and the performance-oriented Si model rely on variations of the 1.5-liter turbo or even more power in the Si.
- LX: 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-4, approximately 158 hp
- EX/EX-T/EX-L/Touring: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4, approximately 173–174 hp
- Si: 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4, about 205 hp
These engine choices reflect Honda’s approach to balancing efficiency with performance across the Civic family.
Technology and performance notes
The 1.5L turbo in the 2017 Civic EX is paired with modern features designed to maximize efficiency and driveability. Direct injection improves fuel economy and power delivery, while the turbocharging provides strong low- and mid-range torque for quick acceleration from highway speeds.
- i-VTEC enables variable valve timing for better low-end torque and high-end power
- Direct injection helps with efficiency and responsiveness
- Turbos boost torque without a large engine displacement, aiding overall efficiency
Owners typically enjoy a well-rounded driving experience: peppy around town and comfortable on longer trips, with competitive fuel efficiency for a non-hybrid sedan.
Summary
The 2017 Honda Civic EX centers on a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 with i-VTEC and direct injection, delivering around 173–174 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, usually through a CVT. This engine combination was designed to offer strong everyday performance without compromising fuel economy, situating the EX as a balanced choice within the Civic lineup.