Hey there, Honda Civic enthusiasts! Are you looking to seriously upgrade the look of your 2017 Civic? Well, you've landed in the right spot. We're diving deep into the world of Mugen body kits for the 2017 Honda Civic. Trust me, if you want to turn heads and make your ride stand out from the crowd, a Mugen body kit is the way to go. Let's get started and explore everything you need to know to give your Civic that aggressive, sporty edge.

    Why Choose a Mugen Body Kit for Your 2017 Civic?

    So, why Mugen? Good question! Mugen isn't just any aftermarket brand; it's practically synonymous with Honda performance and style. Mugen Motorsports has a long and storied history with Honda, often working directly with the manufacturer to develop high-performance parts and accessories. This close relationship means that Mugen parts, including their body kits, are designed to integrate seamlessly with your Civic, both in terms of fitment and aesthetics. When you opt for a Mugen kit, you're not just bolting on some random pieces of plastic; you're adding components engineered to enhance your car's existing design language.

    Enhanced Aerodynamics: One of the key benefits of a Mugen body kit is improved aerodynamics. These kits are designed to reduce drag and increase downforce, which can improve handling and stability, especially at higher speeds. The front and rear spoilers, side skirts, and rear wings are all crafted to manipulate airflow around the vehicle, optimizing its performance. While you might not notice a huge difference in everyday driving, the enhanced aerodynamics can certainly make a difference on the track or during spirited drives.

    Aggressive Styling: Let's be honest, one of the main reasons people choose a Mugen body kit is for the aggressive and sporty styling it adds to their Civic. The Mugen kits typically include a redesigned front bumper, side skirts, a rear bumper with an integrated diffuser, and a rear wing or spoiler. These components transform the look of the Civic, giving it a more aggressive and distinctive appearance. If you're tired of blending in with the crowd, a Mugen body kit is a great way to make a statement and show off your personal style.

    High-Quality Materials and Construction: Mugen body kits are made from high-quality materials like fiberglass, polyurethane, or carbon fiber. These materials are chosen for their durability, flexibility, and resistance to the elements. The kits are also manufactured to very high standards, ensuring a precise fit and finish. This means that you can expect your Mugen body kit to last for many years, even with regular use.

    Key Components of a Mugen Body Kit

    Okay, let's break down the typical components you'll find in a Mugen body kit for the 2017 Honda Civic. Keep in mind that the exact contents of the kit can vary depending on the specific model and the options you choose.

    • Front Bumper: The front bumper is often the most noticeable part of the kit. Mugen front bumpers usually feature a more aggressive design with larger air intakes and a deeper splitter. This not only enhances the car's appearance but also improves airflow to the engine and brakes.
    • Side Skirts: Side skirts run along the lower edges of the car, connecting the front and rear bumpers. They give the Civic a lower, more streamlined appearance and improve aerodynamic efficiency by reducing turbulence along the sides of the vehicle.
    • Rear Bumper: The rear bumper typically includes an integrated diffuser, which helps to smooth out the airflow under the car and reduce drag. Some kits also include additional vents or ducts to further enhance aerodynamics.
    • Rear Wing/Spoiler: The rear wing or spoiler is mounted on the trunk lid and provides additional downforce at higher speeds. Mugen offers a variety of wing and spoiler designs, ranging from subtle lip spoilers to more aggressive, high-mounted wings.
    • Optional Components: Some Mugen body kits may also include additional components like a front grille, hood, or even upgraded suspension parts. These optional extras can further enhance the look and performance of your Civic.

    Where to Buy a Mugen Body Kit

    Finding a genuine Mugen body kit can sometimes be a challenge, as there are many replica kits on the market. To ensure that you're getting a high-quality, authentic product, it's best to purchase from a reputable dealer or authorized Mugen retailer.

    Authorized Dealers: Check the Mugen Motorsports website for a list of authorized dealers in your area. These dealers have been vetted by Mugen and can guarantee that you're getting genuine parts.

    Online Retailers: There are also several online retailers that specialize in selling Mugen parts. Be sure to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure that the retailer is reputable and sells authentic products.

    Japanese Auto Parts Importers: Since Mugen is a Japanese company, you may also be able to find body kits from Japanese auto parts importers. These importers often have access to a wider range of Mugen products that may not be available through domestic dealers.

    Installation: DIY or Professional?

    Once you've purchased your Mugen body kit, the next step is installation. Depending on your mechanical skills and experience, you may be able to install the kit yourself, or you may prefer to have it installed by a professional.

    DIY Installation: If you're comfortable working on cars and have some experience with bodywork, you may be able to install the Mugen body kit yourself. However, it's important to note that this can be a time-consuming and challenging project. You'll need a good set of tools, a clean workspace, and plenty of patience. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take your time to ensure that everything is installed correctly.

    Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable installing the body kit yourself, or if you simply don't have the time, it's best to have it installed by a professional body shop. A professional installer will have the experience and expertise to ensure that the kit is installed correctly and that all of the components fit properly. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your Mugen body kit looks its best and performs as intended.

    Cost Considerations

    Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room: cost. Mugen body kits aren't cheap. They're a premium product, and the price reflects that. The cost of a Mugen body kit can vary depending on the specific model, the materials used, and the options you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 or more for a complete kit.

    Kit Price: The base price of the body kit will depend on the components included and the materials used. Carbon fiber kits will typically be more expensive than fiberglass or polyurethane kits.

    Installation Costs: If you're having the kit installed by a professional, you'll also need to factor in the cost of labor. Installation costs can vary depending on the complexity of the job and the hourly rate of the body shop.

    Painting Costs: Unless you purchase a pre-painted kit, you'll also need to have the body kit painted to match your car's color. Painting costs can vary depending on the quality of the paint and the complexity of the job.

    Additional Costs: Don't forget to factor in any additional costs, such as shipping, taxes, and any modifications that may be required to fit the kit to your car.

    Maintaining Your Mugen Body Kit

    Once you've invested in a Mugen body kit, it's important to take care of it to keep it looking its best. Here are a few tips for maintaining your Mugen body kit:

    Regular Cleaning: Wash your car regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth to avoid scratching the surface of the body kit.

    Waxing: Apply a coat of wax to the body kit every few months to protect it from the elements and keep it looking shiny.

    Touch-Up Paint: Keep a bottle of touch-up paint on hand to repair any minor scratches or chips in the paint.

    Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the body kit, as they can damage the finish.

    Alternatives to Mugen Body Kits

    While Mugen body kits are a popular choice for Honda Civic enthusiasts, they're not the only option. There are several other aftermarket brands that offer body kits for the 2017 Civic. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

    Modulo: Modulo is another brand that is closely associated with Honda. Modulo body kits are designed to offer a more subtle and refined appearance compared to Mugen kits.

    Aftermarket Brands: There are many other aftermarket brands that offer body kits for the 2017 Civic. Some of these brands offer more affordable options, while others focus on creating more aggressive and unique designs.

    Final Thoughts

    A Mugen body kit can be a fantastic way to enhance the look and performance of your 2017 Honda Civic. With their aggressive styling, high-quality materials, and enhanced aerodynamics, Mugen kits are a popular choice among enthusiasts. However, they're also a significant investment, so it's important to do your research and make sure that you're getting a genuine product from a reputable dealer.

    If you're looking to take your Civic to the next level, a Mugen body kit is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to spend some time and money to get it installed and maintained properly. But trust me, the end result will be well worth the effort.