Overview & Reviews

Introduced in the mid 2000s just as gas prices were beginning to race skyward, the Honda Fit immediately became a hit with frugal car shoppers. A subcompact four-door hatchback, the Honda Fit has earned praise for its world-class engineering and design, and it has definitely found its niche with consumers, particularly with the second-generation model. With either generation, you'll find crisp handling, an adaptable interior, high-quality fit and finish and a relatively low price. An all-new third-generation Fit is also on its way. For small-car shoppers, the Honda Fit represents an almost ideal package.

Current Honda Fit
The Honda Fit is available in two main trim levels: base and Sport. Both come with a fuel-efficient 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 117 horsepower and 106 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, with a five-speed automatic transmission being optional. Paddle shifters are included with the automatic for the Sport version. Fuel economy is respectably good with either transmission.

On the base Fit, air-conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry a tilt-and-telescoping steering column and a four-speaker audio system with a CD player, auxiliary audio jack and iPod/USB audio interface are standard. The Honda Fit Sport gains bigger wheels, sportier exterior trim details and a six-speaker audio system. Fit Sports can also be optioned with a touchscreen navigation system that includes Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and voice controls.

The Fit is Honda's smallest automotive product, but it nearly matches the total passenger space of the larger Civic sedan. To help achieve this, Honda has installed a compact rear suspension design and placed the fuel tank underneath the passenger seat. Another key advantage for the Fit is its innovative, highly versatile rear seating arrangement. The "Magic Seat" has seatbacks that fold flat and seat cushions that can be flipped upward, creating a tall load area right behind the front seats -- sort of like a crew cab pickup's rear seats. Maximum cargo capacity is an impressive 57 cubic feet.

In reviews, we've found the Honda Fit to be a pleasure to drive for a frugal subcompact. The car has a solid feel to it, countering the perception of vehicles in this class as tinny econoboxes. Generally speaking, the Honda Fit continues the model's tradition of providing serious bang for the buck, and its combination of driving dynamics, polish and big-time practicality distinguish it from the competition.

Used Honda Fit Models
The current second-generation Honda Fit debuted for the 2009 model year. No notable changes occurred until 2012, when it received minor styling updates, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, added sound insulation and an upgraded Bluetooth system with streaming audio capabilities.

The first-generation Honda Fit was available for just two years: 2007 and 2008. It came in two trim levels with no factory options available. The base version adhered to a minimalist philosophy, though it still came standard with air-conditioning and a CD player. The uplevel Sport trim was snazzier and, predictably, we favored it. It featured larger, 15-inch alloy wheels, stickier tires, exterior styling pieces, keyless entry, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a premium MP3-compatible audio system with an auxiliary audio jack.

The Fit stuck to the Honda playbook when it came to interior controls, which were intelligently designed and utilized high-quality materials. For a subcompact, the first-generation Honda Fit was surprisingly roomy and versatile. Chalk much of that up to the car's specialized second-row, 60/40-split seat design. The rear seats could be placed into four different configurations, depending on passenger or cargo needs. Folding the rear seat flat provided a surprising 41.9 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

Both trim levels were front-wheel drive and were equipped with a 1.5-liter, 109-hp four-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, and a five-speed automatic was optional. Fit Sports with the automatic also had steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles.

We found the first-generation Honda Fit to possess an enviable driving-fun-to-thrift ratio. Cornering and acceleration were crisp. The subcompact could achieve 0-60-mph sprints in fewer than 10 seconds with either transmission. Fuel economy was commendable, and safety was good. The whole thing was almost perfect. Almost. The main downside was that although the car seemed less tinny than other cars in its class, at highway speeds the engine made its presence known. The lack of a telescoping steering wheel could also be an annoyance for taller drivers. But on balance the first-generation Honda Fit provided about as much fun, satisfaction and value as you could find in a small economy car.

User Reviews:

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  Wow - 2007 Honda Fit
  By Scott - December 19 - 5:03 pm

  I used to own a 1989 Honda CRX - This thing is IDENTICAL to the 88 - 91 Civic Sis spec-wise (even down to the 109hp engine.) I knew it was gonna be great even before I test drove it. The handling is great for such a seemingly tall car. I traded in a mazda protege5 for this one and I gotta say, you wouldnt be able to tell that the mazda cost over $7000 more retail than the Honda. It is impossible to keep it slow and steady in this car, all you want to do is just red-line every gear from stoplight to stoplight - yes, its THAT fun. I look forward to the next 150000 or so miles I plan on putting into it.

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  The Fit is the GO! - 2010 Honda Fit
  By BK - December 15 - 4:00 pm

  My previous ride was a 2008 Altima SE. I needed to have a better fuel efficient car because I drive to work 100 miles each day. I put about 1500 miles since my purchase and I am speechless. The car does not feel small at all! I can hardly feel any difference from riding a sedan from my fit. The 1.5L engine is a bit small but it rides very well. I do feel lack of power on hills I would not have noticed on bigger cars but Im not disappointed. I dont know how Honda did it, but the Fit is truly awesome.

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  Cold weather starting - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Battery life - December 11 - 11:07 am

  Original battery replaced 10 months after car bought. As soon as -20+ temp hit there was no life in battery. Again Dec.2009 same thing happened. Car driven daily. Honda replaced first battery but advised that this battery only falls under original time frame of warranty and not from replacement of battery in Dec.2008. Apparently no larger battery with better cranking power will fit the space. Hondas suggested solution is to put battery charger and battery warmer on.

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  Youotta git-one! ! ! - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Sporty 60Youngfella - December 5 - 7:03 pm

  I may be 60 years old, but I dont think like older folks. This car is fun, fun, fun, and way beyond that!! It turns on a dime (gives you 9 cents change), slices thru traffic like a Cutco knife!, and gets 36.5 mpg to boot (city/hwy)!! Steering is quick and takes getting used to. Handling of the car exceeds the org. tire capabilities. My wife & I took an 1100 mile trip in it and she said that the seats are better than her 2006 Accord!! The agility is awesome, even on the hi-way. WOW! The ride is firm, but this is a SPORT! Be sure to leave space from the curb, clearance is limited! The admission price seems high on a Honda, but well well worth it in every respect. After all, this is my 4th Honda!!

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  A good city car - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Douglas Lower - December 5 - 1:57 pm

  I drove my car to work every day, and drove it on two long trips. My mpg avg for city with the air on was 34 mpg, 38 mpg with the air off. The mpg readout on the dash display was inaccurate it would show 42 mpg. Mpg was worse on the frwy, do to the high rpm of the engine in 5th gear. My other car an 09 Ford Focus w/auto did better on the frwy 42-45 mpg. I enjoyed the design of the interior, but felt cheap materials let it down. I did not feel safe on the hwy, to jittery and crosswinds threw it. The shifter clicked loudly into 2nd and 4th. The roof panel would sink down when I washed the car, metal to thin. Have a 2nd car for hwy use, use this for city. Headlight illumination not efficient. No satelite radio.

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  Built like a fine Swiss watch - 2009 Honda Fit
  By Lacy - December 2 - 4:54 pm

  Had "Hissy" for 10 months. Best car Ive ever had in 40 years. Shes built like a fine Swiss watch. Wanted to buy American, but since I had major problems with Saturn when they came out (sorry Saturn), I promised myself to buy the best car regardless of country. All of the reviewers were correct in their evaluations of the Fit- - a truly superb 5 door sub-compact hatchback. Try as I may, nothing but superlatives can describe our "Hissy." Averaging 40-42 MPG in mostly small town driving (after discounting the onboard 44-47 MPG sensor by 10%). Comfortable, responsive, great stereo, still original engine oil at 4500 miles, just a great little car. Thanks, "Hissy," love ya.

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  I love this car. - 2008 Honda Fit
  By Elaine_Avalon - November 28 - 11:52 am

  I love this car! The Fits excellent for road trips. It holds so much! CD player, excellent mileage, comfortable seats, not too much road noise, huge amount of space, the jack thing that you can charge your phone with... The only annoying thing is the lack of a vanity mirror for the passenger. Honestly, who applies makeup while driving? And besides, youre supposed to be concentrating on the road, not your appearance.

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  One of My Most Favorite Things - 2009 Honda Fit
  By kookiecat - November 28 - 2:24 am

  Before I bought the Fit, I was contemplating getting a Nissan Versa. But things changed when my sister and her husband bought a 2007 Honda Fit Sport--I was so impressed that I decided on getting the 09 model. I am so glad I did! It has a lot of power and is so fun to drive! The stereo, IPOD input are my favorite features since I have to have music whenever I drive. The things I dont like about it are few namely: rough/ grainy paint finish (needs more sanding/ coats of paint maybe), no car mats, no height adjustment for drivers seat, no window tint. Otherwise, I highly recommend this car for those looking for fuel efficiency, functionality and cuteness in their car!

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  Fantastic Commuter Car - 2010 Honda Fit
  By jeffdawgfan - November 24 - 11:04 pm

  Traded in 2008 Altima Coupe SE. I commute 120 miles/day so wanted something with better mileage. My commute is combo 50% rolling hills, 25% steep mountain, 25% city. Engine/Transmission: I have the 5 spd auto. The engine will not win any drag races but is peppy and gets the job done. Very well mated with the 5 spd auto trans. The paddle shifters are useful when driving mountains or passing. Design and style are very pleasing. Paint and fitings are quality, even if many are plastic. Comfort on a 60 mile leg of commute is average. I am 62", 235 lbs and have plenty of room. 2" of spare head room. Gas mileage at 800 miles. 38 mpg on average commute. Audio....Average.

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  Fits great anywhere - 2009 Honda Fit
  By ragingbull - November 24 - 1:52 pm

  My previous car was a 2000 Saturn and that car gave me decent mileage about 30mpg the fit is getting me 37 combined city and highway. The Saturn got me used to small car driving and Honda just makes me want to drive small cars. I dont drive far to work but the nearest mall is an hour away and thats when all features kick in. Love the ipod interface. Love the Navigation. Love the controls at the wheel. Im 6 1 and I feel that have more than enough space in the front seats. If your looking for the bang for your buck look no futher. If you mind spending an extra 10k look at the Toyota Camary.