When Honda launched the 10th Generation Civic, they didn't just move the goalposts; they dismantled them and built an entirely new stadium. The design language was a radical departure from the conservative shapes of the past, opting instead for a silhouette that is low, wide, and unapologetically aggressive. This 2017 Civic VTi-L Hatchback sits right in the sweet spot of that revolution. It captures the visual drama of the Type R flagship but packages it in a vehicle that is perfectly livable for the daily commute through Melbourne’s suburbs. It is a car that looks fast even when it is parked, with complex angles and vents that suggest performance is part of its DNA.
The headline act of the VTi-L variant is undoubtedly what resides in the engine bay. Unlike the entry-level models that use a naturally aspirated engine, this vehicle is powered by Honda’s brilliant 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo four-cylinder engine. This powertrain fundamentally changes the character of the car. It offers a surge of torque low down in the rev range that makes merging onto freeways or overtaking on country roads effortless. Mated to a refined Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), the power delivery is linear and smooth. It manages to achieve that rare dual personality: docile and frugal when you are cruising, yet eager and punchy when you decide to bury your right foot.
Beneath the metal skin, the engineering is just as impressive. This generation of Civic introduced a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension setup, a feature often reserved for premium luxury cars. This allows the car to handle corners with a level of poise and grip that is genuinely surprising for a vehicle in this class. It stays flat through roundabouts and absorbs mid-corner bumps without getting unsettled. The steering is quick and direct, providing just enough feedback to let you know what the front wheels are doing, making even a mundane trip to the shops feel a little bit sporty.
Inside, the cabin is a testament to Honda’s legendary packaging efficiency. The VTi-L trim elevates the experience with added creature comforts that make life easier. You are treated to dual-zone climate control, ensuring that both you and your passenger can exist in your own preferred microclimates. Keyless entry and push-button start add a layer of modern convenience, meaning your keys can stay safely in your pocket or bag. The digital instrument cluster is sharp and customizable, displaying vital information clearly without the clutter of traditional analogue dials.
One of the standout features of this model is Honda’s LaneWatch technology. A camera mounted on the passenger-side mirror feeds live video to the central infotainment screen whenever you signal left. It virtually eliminates the blind spot, offering a view of cyclists and traffic that you might otherwise miss. Combined with the high-resolution reversing camera and sensors, parking this sleek hatchback is remarkably stress-free. The infotainment system itself serves as the command centre, offering full connectivity for your smartphone so your playlists and maps are always at your fingertips.
Practicality has not been sacrificed for style. The hatchback boot is cavernous, featuring a clever side-sliding cargo blind that is far easier to use than the traditional heavy parcel shelves found in competitors. The rear seats fold down to create a massive load area, easily accommodating flat-pack furniture or weekend adventure gear. It is a vehicle that adapts to your lifestyle, whether you are a single professional, a couple, or a young family.
At MM Carz, we select vehicles that offer a superior ownership experience. This 2017 Honda Civic VTi-L has been thoroughly inspected to verify its mechanical health. It represents a fantastic opportunity to own a turbocharged Honda that blends performance, economy, and reliability into one cohesive package.
Please note that all pricing excludes government fees and charges. We strongly recommend contacting us directly to confirm availability before visiting our showroom, as our inventory can change rapidly. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our listings, some specifications may vary.
It has a turbo, which technically makes the "whoosh" noise, although you might have to make the sound effects yourself with your mouth to actually hear it.