2009 Honda Fit

When interest in smaller, fuel-efficient cars began to sizzle in the spring of 2008, Honda didn't have to worry much. In addition to the popular Civic, Honda had a smaller-yet Fit in its stable—with a redesigned version at Honda dealers now.

Overview

Launched in Japan in 2001 and sold in 115 countries, the original Fit debuted in the U.S. market as an early 2007 model. "We were kind of last in the world to get Fit," said John Mendel, executive vice-president of auto operations. For that reason, a redesigned Fit will soon reach American dealerships, after a relatively short lifespan of the original model.


Again a four-door hatchback, the Fit gets a fresh look, slightly more power, and an available navigation system. "The concept of Fit hasn't changed, "said senior product planner Jeff Swedlund. But quality has improved, "which usually is a weakness for this class."


Fuel-efficiency is a strong selling point among all prospective buyers, including older folks who are downsizing from bigger vehicles. Fit competes against the Nissan Versa, Scion xD, and Toyota Yaris.

Power, Performance, Economy and Space

Honda's 1.5-liter four-cylinder i-VTEC engine now develops 117 hp at 6600 rpm (6 more than the 2008 model) and 106 pound-feet of torque. Fit is called the only car in its class with a five-speed automatic transmission. Dual-mode paddle shifters are included on the Sport model, and a five-speed manual gearbox is available. Tires have grown by one size, to 15-inch for the base Fit and 16-inch for Sport models, which now include a rear stabilizer. Honda says new tires have helped shorten stopping distance.


Following what Honda calls a "super forward aeroform" theme, the 2009 Fit has changed considerably in appearance, becoming a "forward-leaning" hatchback. Dimensions have increased modestly. Wheelbase is up about 2 inches, and the 2009 Fit is 4.3 inches longer than its predecessor. Front legroom has grown, along with foot/knee space in the rear. Back seats are wider, with more cushions. They fold flat even if the front seat is pushed all the way back. Stressing passenger space, Honda dubs Fit "small on the outside, big on the inside." As before, the Fit has six standard airbags and antilock braking.


Fuel-economy is a prominent issue for Fit, which gets an EPA estimate of 27/33 mpg with manual shift (versus 28/34 in 2008), but a more frugal 28/35 mpg with automatic. The automatic-equipped Sport model rates 27/33 mpg. NHTSA crash-testing has not yet taken place, but Honda expects the same 5-star frontal-impact ratings as the 2008 Fit, plus an improvement in that model's 5/3-star side-impact figures.