2017 Honda Civic vs 2017 Toyota Corolla
Reliability Side-by-Side
2017
Honda Civic
Grade A-
A top-tier compact car that delivers value and fun, requiring attention to a few known system weaknesses.
2017
Toyota Corolla
Grade A
A bulletproof compact sedan that prioritizes longevity and cost-effectiveness over thrills, making it an incredibly safe bet.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2017 Toyota Corolla
Score 92/100 vs 88/100
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2017 Honda Civic | 2017 Toyota Corolla★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | — | — |
| Moderate Repairs | — | — |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 32 / 42 | 30 / 40 |
| MSRP (New) | $18,740 | $18,500 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Biggest Risks on Each
2017 Honda Civic
Air Conditioning System
1.5L Turbo Engine (Oil Dilution)
Infotainment System
2017 Toyota Corolla
Infotainment System
HVAC Blower Motor
Rear Suspension Bushings
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
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Editorial Take
The 2017 Honda Civic and 2017 Toyota Corolla stand as two of the most consistently popular compact sedans in automotive history, perpetually locked in a rivalry for market dominance. These vehicles are commonly compared by buyers seeking reliable, fuel-efficient, and practical transportation for daily commuting or small family duties. Individuals prioritizing a more engaging driving experience, modern technology, and superior fuel economy in certain configurations will often lean towards the Civic, while those who value ultimate simplicity, bulletproof reliability, and comprehensive standard safety features will find the Corolla a compelling choice. The key decision factors ultimately revolve around driving dynamics versus proven longevity, and cutting-edge features versus essential practicality. HEAD-TO-
Reliability & Common Issues
2017 Honda Civic: 1. AC Condenser Failure: A well-documented issue, particularly prevalent in 2016-2018 models. The AC condenser is prone to early failure, often resulting in a loss of air conditioning. Honda has extended the warranty for this component to 10 years with unlimited mileage for many affected vehicles. 2. Turbocharger Oil Dilution (1.5L Turbo): On some 1.5-liter turbocharged engines, particularly in colder climates or with frequent short trips, there have been reports of gasoline mixing with engine oil, leading to oil dilution. While Honda issued software updates to mitigate this, it's worth monitoring oil levels and condition. 3. Infotainment System Glitches: Early 10th-generation Civics (including 2017) sometimes experienced freezing or slow responses from the available 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Software updates often resolved these issues, but some users still report occasional quirks. 2017 Toyota Corolla: 1. Water Pump Leaks: While not widespread or a common recall, some Corolla owners, typically at higher mileages (over 100,000 miles), have reported the water pump developing leaks. This is generally a maintenance item, but worth noting as a potential repair down the line. 2. CV Axle Noise/Vibration: A few instances have been reported of Constant Velocity (CV) axles causing clicking noises or minor vibrations, particularly when turning or accelerating. This is less common but can occur over time and mileage, potentially requiring replacement. 3. Minor Electrical Quirks: Very occasionally, owners might experience minor electrical issues such as a flickering dashboard light or a non-responsive power window switch. These are typically isolated incidents and not indicative of a systemic problem, highlighting the Corolla's overall robust electrical architecture.
Value & Cost of Ownership
When new, the 2017 Civic and Corolla had very similar starting MSRPs, with base models hovering around $18,500 to $18,740. However, higher trims of the Civic, particularly those with the turbocharged engine and advanced features, typically commanded a higher price than comparable Corolla trims. In the used market (in 2024), both vehicles maintain excellent resale value, a testament to their reputations. Used 2017 Civics might fetch slightly higher prices due to their more modern design, better performance, and desirable tech features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. However, used Corollas remain incredibly sought after for their legendary reliability, often fetching prices very close to Civics of similar mileage and condition. Insurance costs for both are generally affordable, as they are mass-market compact cars. The Corolla might have a marginal edge in slightly lower premiums due to its less powerful engine options and perception of lower accident risk. Maintenance costs are where both shine. Both Honda and Toyota are renowned for low ownership costs. Scheduled maintenance for both vehicles is routine and inexpensive, with parts widely available. While both are economical, the Corolla often earns the reputation as being the absolute cheapest to maintain long-term due to its simpler mechanicals and widespread serviceability. Resale value is a strong point for both, with the Civic and Corolla consistently ranking among the best in their class for retaining value over time.
Editorial Verdict
BEST FOR FAMILIES: The 2017 Toyota Corolla. While the Civic is also a good family car, the Corolla's standardization of Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) across all trims in 2017 provides an unparalleled level of safety features for the price point, which is a major benefit for families. Its slightly softer ride and spacious rear seat are also appealing. BEST FOR COMMUTERS: Both vehicles excel, but for different reasons. The 2017 Honda Civic, especially with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, offers superior fuel economy (up to 32 city/42 highway MPG) and a more engaging drive to make the daily commute less mundane. However, the 2017 Toyota Corolla's legendary reliability, standard advanced safety features, and comfortable, quiet ride make it an equally compelling, if less exciting, choice for stress-free commuting. BEST FOR ENTHUSIASTS: The 2017 Honda Civic. There is no contest here. The Civic's optional 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides a significant power boost and a more athletic feel, while its sharper steering and more composed suspension offer a genuinely enjoyable driving experience. The Civic platform also had a more performance-oriented trim (Si) that year, though not part of this direct sedan comparison, indicating its sporting intent. The Corolla's sedate nature offers little for the enthusiast. BEST VALUE OVERALL: This is a very close call. The 2017 Toyota Corolla offers immense value due to its impeccable reliability record, standard advanced safety suite, and proven low cost of ownership, making it a sensible, no-fuss purchase. However, the 2017 Honda Civic, with its more modern interior, superior performance options, better fuel economy in its most popular engine, and desirable technology like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (on higher trims), arguably offers more "car" for the money for those willing to spend slightly more on a well-equipped model. For most buyers seeking a well-rounded package, the Civic edges out the Corolla due to its more dynamic experience and modern features, assuming they can access the higher trims.
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