2017 Honda Civic Si Coupe And Sedan: Sporty And Affordable

The 2017 Honda Civic has been very successful in the US marketplace, even though it is a car and most buyers today are more interested in SUVs. Its recent redesign, with a spacious interior, high level of standard equipment, and a choice of three different body styles, has made it the top dog in the US compact car segment. In April 2017, the Civic beat its close rival, the Toyota Corolla, by just over 100 units.

Now, for those who desire a bump in performance and handling, the 2017 Honda Civic Si Coupe and Sedan have reached Honda dealers nationwide.

A More Practical, Usable Civic Si

Compared to its predecessors, the 2017 Civic Si is more in tune with most drivers’ daily needs. Previous Si models were equipped with engines that needed to be revved up to the redline to generate their extra power. While this is fine for a sunny afternoon on empty, winding back roads, it is not a pleasant way to drive in the traffic situations most people encounter on a daily basis.

The 2017 Civic Si is the first Si to offer a turbocharged engine. Its peak power of 205 horsepower arrives lower in the power range, with its maximum torque produced at only 2,100 rpm. This means that the power comes in right when you step on the gas – no waiting!

Engineered For Those Who Like To Drive

The 2017 Civic Si was created for those who like to participate in the experience of driving. The only transmission choice is a short-throw, six-speed manual. If you’d like an automatic, there are plenty of other fine Civics to choose from.

Other components that have been upgraded for Si duty include an adaptive electric power steering system, sport-tuned suspension with two-mode adaptive damper system (Normal and Sport), limited-slip differential, larger front brake rotors, and wider tires. Other suspension upgrades include stiffer spring rates, more rigid stabilizer bars, solid front and rear compliance bushings, and ultra-rigid front upper control arms shared with the track-ready Civic Type R. Wheel track has been increased at front and rear for improved stability, a lower center of gravity, and improved cornering. Your driving pleasure is guaranteed!

Civic Si Looks Like A Performance Car, Inside And Out

The 2017 Civic Si has all the touches you might expect to see on a sport-focused Civic. There is an aggressive front fascia with large lower air intakes, a set of 18” alloy wheels with machined finish, and a center-mounted exhaust. A wing spoiler finishes it all off outside.

Inside, you will find bolstered front sport seats with red stitching, plus a leather wrapped steering wheel and a leather and aluminum shift knob. Aluminum sport pedals and carbon-look instrument panel trim complete the sporty look.

Technology And Connectivity Highlights

The new Civic Si includes a 7” Display Audio touchscreen that controls audio, climate control, and other functions. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, providing seamless integration of smartphone features and functions. Si models feature a 450-watt, 10-speaker premium sound system with AM/FM, SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio and Pandora capability. Crank it up!

Safety Is Built In

The Civic Si Coupe and Sedan have received a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA. Standard anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, Vehicle Stability Assist with traction control, and Agile Handling Assist further enhance stability, emergency handing, and braking performance.

Lots Of Bang For The Buck

Both the 2017 Honda Civic Si Coupe and Sedan are priced at $23,900 MSRP. The only factory option at this time is a $200 upgrade from all-season to summer-only performance tires. The Si models for the US market will be produced at Honda's plant in Ontario, Canada, with its engines produced in Ohio. If you are looking for all the traditional Honda qualities in a compact, very sporty coupe or sedan, get yourself behind the wheel of the Civic Si and take it for a drive!

 

About The Author

Stephen Fogel

Stephen follows the global automotive industry on a daily basis, including new model announcements, new technologies, sales trends, and the latest in "green" cars.