34 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling contests, but it’s a respectable figure for a practical, fun-to-drive hatchback like the 2017 Honda Civic 5Dr with the 1.5L turbo engine. This car occupies a sweet spot: It’s not a dedicated economy car, but a well-rounded vehicle that prioritizes efficiency without sacrificing the qualities that attract buyers in the first place: style, space, technology, and a rewarding driving experience. The Civic 5Dr buyer wants a car that’s cheap to run but doesn’t *feel* cheap. They understand that outright fuel economy often comes at the expense of other desirable attributes and are happy to accept this compromise.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Honda Civic 5Dr 1.5L at 31 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. The difference reflects the nature of the continuously variable transmission (CVT). In city driving conditions, where quick bursts of acceleration and frequent speed changes are common, the CVT helps keep the engine in its most efficient range. On the highway, that tall overdrive ratio allows the engine to run at low RPMs, maximizing fuel economy during steady-state cruising. That excellent highway number makes this car a good commuter, especially for those who frequently travel longer distances.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Honda Civic 5Dr 1.5L at $1,300. This is calculated based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, with 55% city driving and 45% highway driving, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Keep in mind this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. Someone who drives predominantly on the highway will likely spend less than $1,300 per year, while someone who spends most of their time stuck in stop-and-go city traffic may spend more. Check all Honda fuel economy data, including older models and trims that may be relevant to your budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2017 Honda Civic 5Dr 1.5L generally report figures that are close to the EPA’s estimates, with many seeing slightly better results, especially on the highway. Factors that can affect real-world MPG include driving style (aggressive acceleration and braking will negatively impact fuel economy), tire pressure (underinflated tires increase rolling resistance), and ambient temperature (extreme cold can reduce fuel economy). A properly maintained vehicle, including regular oil changes and air filter replacements, will also contribute to optimal fuel efficiency. For more information on the CIVIC MPG across all years, and among different trims, do some research.

How it compares

The 2017 Honda Civic 5Dr 1.5L competes in a crowded segment of fuel-efficient compact cars. The Mazda3 hatchback, for example, achieves around 32 MPG combined with its 2.0L engine and automatic transmission. The Toyota Corolla iM (later renamed Corolla Hatchback) offers similar space and practicality but typically falls slightly short in fuel economy, around 31 MPG combined. A comparable Hyundai Elantra GT manages around 33 MPG. What sets the Civic apart (besides its often exceptional reliability) is that it blends fuel economy with a good power-to-weight ratio and engaging driving dynamics. Other options may be cheaper, or slightly more efficient, but they lack the Civic’s overall appeal. For someone seeking very high MPG, a Toyota Prius achieves significantly better fuel economy (over 50 MPG combined), but at the expense of driving enjoyment and a higher initial purchase price.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Civic’s “ECON” mode, if equipped. This mode remaps the throttle response and optimizes the CVT for fuel efficiency, slightly reducing performance in exchange for improved MPG. It’s particularly effective in city driving, where responsiveness is less crucial than minimizing fuel consumption during stop-and-go traffic.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Use a reliable gauge to check your tire pressure at least once a month and ensure that the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which translates directly into improved fuel economy. This is especially important on longer journeys.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to be restarted frequently without causing excessive wear and tear, and idling wastes fuel without getting you anywhere. This is particularly important if you live in an area with strict emissions regulations.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. Maintain a consistent speed and try to anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary speed changes. The CVT in the Civic is designed to work best with smooth, gradual inputs, maximizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing responsiveness when needed.

Travel light. Remove any unnecessary items from your car, as extra weight reduces fuel economy. Every 100 pounds removed from your vehicle can improve fuel economy by a small but measurable amount. While this might seem insignificant, the cumulative effect over time can be substantial. Clean out your trunk on a regular basis.