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Honda reveals 2017 Civic Hatchback, confirms US launch

Honda has unveiled the 2017 Civic Hatchback, bringing the five-door body style to the US market for the first time alongside a global rollout.

By Steve James Updated
2017 Honda Civic hatchback front view
2017 Honda Civic hatchback front view Kevauto / CC BY-SA 4.0

Honda has officially introduced the 2017 Civic Hatchback, expanding the tenth-generation Civic range with a five-door variant that will, for the first time, be sold in the United States. The move brings the hatchback body style to American buyers after years of absence, with the new model also targeting global markets.

The 2017 Civic Hatchback shares its platform and much of its mechanical package with the current Civic saloon and coupe, but introduces a distinctively sloping roofline and a more aggressive rear. Honda has emphasised the hatchback’s versatility, claiming best-in-class cargo space, although it has not published a specific figure. Rear legroom is quoted at 36 inches, which sits between the Civic saloon and coupe.

Turbocharged power and manual option

All versions of the new Civic Hatchback are powered by Honda’s 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. The LX, EX, and EX-L trims produce 174hp and 162lb ft of torque, while the Sport and Sport Touring variants are tuned for 180hp. Both a six-speed manual and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) are available, with the manual offered on selected trims. Honda expects CVT-equipped models to achieve up to 31mpg city and 40mpg highway in US EPA testing.

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback engine and transmission options
Engine1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four
Power (LX/EX/EX-L)174hp
Power (Sport/Sport Touring)180hp
Torque162lb ft
Transmissions6-speed manual or CVT (varies by trim)

Trim levels and equipment

The US Civic Hatchback will be available in LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Sport Touring trims. Sport and Sport Touring models add a more aggressive body kit, including a rear wing, new side skirts and a centre-mounted exhaust. Inside, the hatchback shares much of its specification with the Civic saloon, including Honda’s Display Audio touchscreen system, heated seats, power-adjustable front seats and remote start. The Honda Sensing suite of active safety features will be available, with Sport Touring models offering LED headlights and heated rear seats as standard.

  • Five-door hatchback body style
  • Manual and CVT transmissions
  • Sport-oriented trims with body kit and extra power
  • Honda Sensing safety suite (optional or standard depending on trim)

US launch and global ambitions

The 2017 Civic Hatchback’s arrival in the US marks a notable expansion for Honda’s compact range, which has traditionally offered the hatch only in other markets. The new model is expected to appeal to buyers seeking more practicality than the coupe or saloon, while providing a platform for future performance models such as the Civic Type R. That model, based on the hatchback, was later revealed at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show.

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