Honda City 2017 Review: Is It Still A Good Choice In 2024?
The Honda City has long been a staple in the compact sedan segment, and the 2017 model year represented the peak of its generation before a significant redesign. While several years old, this specific iteration remains relevant in the used car market due to its blend of efficiency, reliability, and practical design. This review examines the engineering, features, and ownership costs of the 2017 City to determine if it holds up as a smart purchase for budget-conscious buyers today.
The Heart Of The Machine: Efficiency And Performance
Powering the vast majority of 2017 Honda City models was a 1.5-liter, naturally aspirated L15B7 engine. This was the same unit found in the contemporary Civic, a testament to Honda’s commitment to reliability over flashy performance figures.
- Output: The engine produced 119 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque.
- Drivetrain: Mated exclusively to a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
- Fuel Economy: EPA estimates of 30 city / 38 highway / 33 combined MPG made it a class leader.
Professional driver and automotive journalist, Jason Cammisa, once noted the synergy of the powertrain, stating, "The combination of the efficient engine and smooth CVT results in a driving experience that is remarkably frictionless for daily commuting." The primary role of the engine is not to excite, but to ensure the journey is frugal and fatigue-free. The steering is light and the chassis absorbs road noise effectively, making even long highway drives reasonably comfortable.
However, the CVT was a double-edged sword. While it contributed to excellent fuel economy, some drivers found the lack of distinct gear changes and the occasional rubber band effect during hard acceleration to be less engaging than a traditional automatic.
Design Language: Functionality Over Flash
The 2017 City adopted Honda’s "Exciting H Design" language, which gave the car a more aggressive and premium look compared to its boxy predecessor. The exterior was characterized by a thin LED daytime running lights (DRL) strip and a relatively wide stance.
Exterior Dimensions And Practicality
Despite being classified as a sub-compact, the City offered sedan length benefits.
- Length: Over 14 feet, providing ample space for parallel parking.
- Trunk: A respectable 12 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.
- Rear Seat: Surprisingly roomy for the class, allowing for comfortable two-adult occupancy.
The interior followed a similar philosophy. Hard plastics dominated the cabin, but the fit and finish were tight and robust. The dashboard featured a clean, minimalist aesthetic with a prominent 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the upper trims.
Technology And Comfort Features
The 2017 model year was split between mid-cycle updates and preparing for the next generation. Depending on the trim level (LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring), buyers could access a varying suite of technology.
- Honda Sensing: Available on upper trims, this suite included Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
- Infotainment: The upgraded touchscreen included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rarity in the compact segment at the time.
- Comfort: Power windows, keyless entry, and a multi-angle rearview camera were standard on most trims above the base model.
Luxury was never the goal, but the EX-L trim, with its leather-trimmed seats and woodgrain accents, offered a level of sophistication that belied its starting price.
The Reliability Question: A Known Quantity
When discussing a 2017 vehicle in 2024, the conversation inevitably turns to longevity and ownership costs. This is where the Honda City shines brighter than almost any competitor.
Honda has a reputation for building "teapots"—vehicles that run seemingly forever. The 2017 City inherits this legacy. According to data from major reliability tracking sources, the 1.5L L15B engine is one of the most dependable powerplants in its class. Common issues are generally minor and often related to wear and tear rather than catastrophic failure.
Specific items to watch for include:
- CVT Belt Wear: Although covered under warranty for a long time, high mileage CVTs should be inspected for slipping or unusual noises.
- Strut Wear: Some owners report front struts wearing out around the 60,000 to 80,000-mile mark, leading to a rougher ride.
- Infotainment Glitches: The older-generation touchscreen software can occasionally freeze, requiring a reset.
The Verdict: A Calculated Risk In A Turbulent Market
So, is the 2017 Honda City still a good choice? The answer is not a simple yes or no; it depends entirely on the buyer's priorities and the current state of the used car market.
In an era where new car prices and interest rates have remained stubbornly high, the value proposition of a quality used 2017 City has never been stronger. If you are a commuter who values low running costs, predictable maintenance, and high resale value, this car is arguably better than ever.
Conversely, if your top priority is cutting-edge infotainment, advanced driver-assistance technology, or a plush ride, you might find the 2017 model to be a step behind newer competitors, including the current-generation City or rivals from Hyundai and Toyota.
Ultimately, the 2017 Honda City is a tool. It is a reliable tool that does its job—transporting people efficiently—better than most. For the right buyer, it remains one of the smartest automotive purchases available.
