Choosing between the 2017 Honda Civic and the 2017 Toyota Corolla can be a tough decision, guys. Both are super popular compact cars known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall practicality. But, of course, they each have their own strengths and weaknesses. To help you figure out which one is the better fit for you, let's dive into a detailed comparison, covering everything from performance and fuel economy to interior comfort, technology, and safety features. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which car deserves a spot in your driveway.

Performance and Fuel Economy: Zipping Around Town

When it comes to performance, the 2017 Honda Civic generally offers a bit more pep in its step compared to the 2017 Toyota Corolla. The Civic boasts a couple of engine options, including a turbocharged engine that delivers quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. The Corolla, on the other hand, typically focuses on providing a smooth and comfortable ride, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright speed. But let's get into the specifics.

The 2017 Honda Civic offers two primary engine choices. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces around 158 horsepower, which is perfectly adequate for most daily driving situations. However, the real star of the show is the available 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, cranking out about 174 horsepower. This turbo engine not only provides more power but also delivers it in a more accessible way, making the Civic feel more responsive and fun to drive. The Civic's handling is also generally more agile, contributing to a sportier feel behind the wheel. Fuel economy is also impressive; the Civic can achieve up to 42 mpg on the highway with the turbo engine, making it an efficient choice for commuters.

In contrast, the 2017 Toyota Corolla comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that generates around 132 horsepower. While this engine is reliable and efficient, it doesn't offer the same level of excitement as the Civic's turbo option. The Corolla is designed more for comfort and ease of driving, with a focus on providing a smooth and quiet ride. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps to maximize fuel economy, and the Corolla can achieve up to 40 mpg on the highway. While the Corolla may not be the quickest car on the road, it's a dependable and economical choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience.

Which one is better? If you value a more engaging driving experience and quicker acceleration, the 2017 Honda Civic has the edge. However, if fuel economy and a smooth, comfortable ride are your top priorities, the 2017 Toyota Corolla is a solid choice. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and driving needs.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Where You Spend Your Time

The interior is where you'll be spending most of your time, so it's crucial to consider the comfort and technology features of both the 2017 Honda Civic and the 2017 Toyota Corolla. Both cars offer well-designed cabins with user-friendly controls, but there are some key differences that may sway your decision.

The 2017 Honda Civic generally boasts a more modern and stylish interior design. The materials used are of decent quality, and the overall layout is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The Civic offers comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers, with ample legroom and headroom. The available tech features are also a strong point, with options like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The infotainment system can sometimes be a bit clunky to use, but it offers a good range of features and smartphone integration. The Civic also offers a decent amount of cargo space, making it practical for everyday errands and longer trips.

On the other hand, the 2017 Toyota Corolla offers a more straightforward and practical interior design. While it may not be as visually exciting as the Civic's interior, it is well-built and functional. The Corolla also provides comfortable seating, although the rear seats may feel a bit tighter for taller passengers. The Corolla's tech features are generally user-friendly, with an available touchscreen display and Bluetooth connectivity. However, it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which may be a drawback for some buyers. The Corolla also offers a respectable amount of cargo space, making it a practical choice for daily use.

Which one is better? If you value a more modern interior design and smartphone integration features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the 2017 Honda Civic is the better choice. However, if you prefer a straightforward and user-friendly interior with comfortable seating, the 2017 Toyota Corolla is a solid option. Consider which features are most important to you and choose accordingly.

Safety Features: Keeping You Protected

Safety is a top priority for most car buyers, and both the 2017 Honda Civic and the 2017 Toyota Corolla excel in this area. Both cars come standard with a suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers in the event of a collision. However, there are some differences in the available safety technologies that may influence your decision.

The 2017 Honda Civic comes standard with features like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Additionally, it offers available advanced safety technologies such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist. These features can help to prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of a collision. The Civic has also earned excellent safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable car.

The 2017 Toyota Corolla also comes standard with a comprehensive set of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Furthermore, it offers Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety technologies that includes pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. These features can help to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind. Like the Civic, the Corolla has also received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

Which one is better? Both the 2017 Honda Civic and the 2017 Toyota Corolla offer excellent safety features and have earned top safety ratings. The choice between the two may come down to personal preference and which specific safety technologies you value most. Both cars provide a safe and secure driving experience, so you can't go wrong with either one.

Reliability and Maintenance: Long-Term Ownership

Reliability and maintenance costs are important factors to consider when buying a car, as they can significantly impact your long-term ownership experience. Both the 2017 Honda Civic and the 2017 Toyota Corolla have a strong reputation for reliability, but there are some nuances to keep in mind.

The 2017 Honda Civic has generally proven to be a reliable car, with many owners reporting few major issues. However, some model years of the Civic have been known to have issues with the infotainment system and certain engine components. Regular maintenance is key to keeping the Civic running smoothly, and following the recommended service schedule can help to prevent potential problems. Maintenance costs for the Civic are generally reasonable, and parts are readily available.

The 2017 Toyota Corolla is renowned for its exceptional reliability and longevity. It's often considered one of the most dependable cars on the market, with many owners reporting minimal issues over the lifespan of the vehicle. The Corolla's simple design and robust engineering contribute to its reliability. Like the Civic, regular maintenance is essential, but the Corolla is generally less prone to major problems. Maintenance costs for the Corolla are also typically low, making it an affordable car to own in the long run.

Which one is better? While both cars are reliable, the 2017 Toyota Corolla generally has a slight edge in terms of long-term reliability. The Corolla's reputation for dependability is well-deserved, and it's likely to provide years of trouble-free service with proper maintenance. However, the 2017 Honda Civic is also a reliable car, and with regular maintenance, it can provide a satisfying ownership experience.

Overall Value: Bang for Your Buck

When it comes to overall value, both the 2017 Honda Civic and the 2017 Toyota Corolla offer a lot for the money. They are both affordable to buy, fuel-efficient, and reliable, making them excellent choices for budget-conscious buyers. However, there are some differences in terms of features and performance that may make one a better value for you than the other.

The 2017 Honda Civic typically offers more features and a more engaging driving experience for the price. The available turbocharged engine provides more power and quicker acceleration, while the modern interior design and available tech features add to its appeal. The Civic also holds its value well, making it a good investment in the long run. However, the Civic may be slightly more expensive to insure and maintain than the Corolla.

The 2017 Toyota Corolla excels in terms of reliability and low ownership costs. Its reputation for dependability and fuel efficiency make it an economical choice, and its simple design translates to lower maintenance costs. The Corolla may not offer the same level of excitement as the Civic, but it provides a comfortable and practical driving experience at an affordable price. The Corolla also holds its value well, making it a smart financial decision.

Which one is better? The better value depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize features, performance, and a more modern design, the 2017 Honda Civic is a great choice. However, if you value reliability, low ownership costs, and a comfortable ride, the 2017 Toyota Corolla is an excellent option. Consider your budget, driving habits, and desired features to determine which car offers the best value for you.

Final Verdict: Making the Right Choice

So, there you have it – a comprehensive comparison of the 2017 Honda Civic and the 2017 Toyota Corolla. Both cars are excellent choices in the compact car segment, offering a blend of reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. The 2017 Honda Civic stands out with its more engaging driving experience, modern interior, and available tech features. On the other hand, the 2017 Toyota Corolla shines with its exceptional reliability, low ownership costs, and comfortable ride.

Ultimately, the best car for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value a sporty driving experience and the latest technology, the 2017 Honda Civic is the way to go. But if you prioritize reliability, affordability, and a comfortable ride, the 2017 Toyota Corolla is an excellent choice. We hope this comparison has helped you narrow down your options and make an informed decision. Happy car shopping, guys!