The long wait is just about over, as the 2017 Honda Civic hatchback is set to hit US showrooms this fall. Ever since the discontinuation of the EP3, Honda fans around the world have eagerly anticipated the return of the hatchback. Combining European styling and the innovative 1.5 liter Earth Dreams turbocharged VTEC engine, the Honda Civic hatchback will also serve as the base model for the new Type R.
As the 10th generation Civic, the hatchback will join the new Civic lineup that includes the new sedan and coupe models. There’s a lot of hype for the upcoming Civic Type R hatchback, which set records at Nurburgring for front wheel vehicles. Although the rear doors on the Honda Civic hatchback have resulted in some mixed reviews, there’s no doubting the performance pedigree of the new Civic.
2017 Honda Civic Hatchback – What’s new
The new Honda Civic hatchback will come in LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Sport Touring trims. All of these models will be powered by the 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected turbocharged four cylinder coined as the Earth Dreams powerplant. Horsepower output is rated at 180 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque.
Drivetrain – Mated to a CVT transmission, the Honda Civic hatchback will also thankfully get a traditional manual gearbox option as well. Civic fans will be happy to know that LX, Sport and EX models will come with a 6-speed manual transmission option as well. EPA ratings are estimated at 31 city / 40 highway /34 mpg combined for CVT equipped Civics. The six speed manual will probably improve on these figures, making the five-door Honda Civic hatchback among the best in it’s class.
Suspension – The Honda Civic has always been a nimble performer and the new hatchback doesn’t disappoint. With a stronger, lighter chassis, the new Honda Civic hatchback relies on independent suspension, leaving behind the Macpherson strut setup of previous generations.
The 2017 Honda Civic hatchback will also come with shock absorbers with liquid filled bushings in front and rear. Sport tuned electronic power steering uses variable ratios in the steering rack to provide ultimate feedback. Four channel anti-lock brakes bring the Civic to a halt quickly. Additional performance technology includes Honda’s Electronic Brake Distribution to ensure positive braking ability.
Interior – Inside the all new Honda Civic hatchback, a host of upgrades to build quality are plain to see. With a class-leading cargo capacity, the new Civic makes good use of the utilitarian hatchback design. Not only is the new Honda Civic hatchback roomy inside, but there’s a host of technological advances that make the new Civic the best we’ve seen yet.
Part of the safety and technology suite is Honda Sensing™. Their driver-assist technology includes such features like Collision Mitigation Braking System, and Forward Collision Warning along with Lane Keeping Assist and Low-Speed Follow.
Other interior features include new infotainment system upgrades that integration Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For Honda Civic hatchback models starting at the EX and above, additional options like heated front seats and heated side mirrors, power driver and front-passenger seats are included.
Safety – The Honda Civic hatchback also scored quite well in crash ratings. With an NCAP 5-star Overall Vehicle Score. What’s more the Civic also ranked on the IIHS as a Top safety pick with a good rating in all tests, and a superior rating in frontal crash prevention.
What do you think about the all new Honda Civic hatchback? Like the four door look or do you not like it? What do you want to see in the new Civic Type R? Leave us a comment below and let us know!