Honda has put out the first word on its 2010 Fit, and it appears that there are few, if any changes to the hatchback model for the new model year.
The Fit comes only as a five-door hatchback, and it remains one of TheCarConnection.com's top-rated vehicles (an 8.2 overall). The Fit's 117-horsepower, 1.5-liter i-VTEC in-line four-cylinder engine delivers downright peppy performance with the five-speed manual and is still quite good with the available five-speed automatic. Overall, Honda just gets it—achieving a very responsive, tossable feel that makes the Fit feel almost sports-car nimble yet also quiet and refined enough for an Interstate trip, while returning up to 29 mpg city, 35 highway (with the automatic).
Packaging, however, trumps the driving experience as the reason why TheCarConnection.com most recommends the Fit. The Fit's so-called Magic Seat arrangement folds flat and low, without any need to fuss with the headrests, and the Honda makes good use of the space with cubbies and storage bins. Even though the Fit is just 162 inches long and fits in compact-only spaces with much room to spare, two adults can fit in back comfortably.
The 2009 Honda Fit is one of the best small cars for occupant protection, achieving five stars for front occupants in both frontal and side-impact tests from the federal government (four stars for side-impact and back-seat passengers), and top 'Good' ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) across the board. It's the only 'minicar,' as the IIHS designates it, to be named a Top Safety Pick from the group.
Price isn't a strong point for the 2010 Honda Fit—most other cars its size cost a bit less—but shoppers should consider the Fit's strong resale value (used Fits were actually selling for more than new ones for a time during last year's fuel spike), along with its long standard-equipment list and Honda's reputation for reliability and longevity.
We're working on getting some more time with the Fit and updating our impressions for 2010; in the mean time, check out TheCarConnection.com's Bottom Line on the 2009 Honda Fit, along with our Full Review of the Fit, which features highlights from other reviews around the Web. You might also take a look at this Chevrolet Aveo vs Honda Fit comparison.
2010 Honda Fit SportEnlarge Photo 2010 Honda Fit SportEnlarge Photo 2010 Honda Fit SportEnlarge Photo 2010 Honda Fit SportEnlarge Photo 2010 Honda Fit SportEnlarge Photo Honda has put out the first word on its 2010 Fit, and it appears that there are few, if any changes to the hatchback model for the new model year. The Fit comes only as a five-door hatchback, and it remains one of TheCarConnection.com's top-rated vehicles (an 8.2 overall). The Fit's 117-horsepower, 1.5-liter i-VTEC in-line four-cylinder engine delivers downright peppy performance with the five-speed manual and is still quite good with the available five-speed automatic. Overall, Honda just gets it—achieving a very responsive, tossable feel that makes the Fit feel almost sports-car nimble yet also quiet and refined enough for an Interstate trip, while returning up to 29 mpg city, 35 highway (with the automatic). Packaging, however, trumps the driving experience as the reason why TheCarConnection.com most recommends the Fit. The Fit's so-called Magic Seat arrangement folds flat and low, without any need to fuss with the headrests, and the Honda makes good use of the space with cubbies and storage bins. Even though the Fit is just 162 inches long and fits in compact-only spaces with much room to spare, two adults can fit in back comfortably. The 2009 Honda Fit is one of the best small cars for occupant protection, achieving five stars for front occupants in both frontal and side-impact tests from the federal government (four stars for side-impact and back-seat passengers), and top 'Good' ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) across the board. It's the only 'minicar,' as the IIHS designates it, to be named a Top Safety Pick from the group. Price isn't a strong point for the 2010 Honda Fit—most other cars its size cost a bit less—but shoppers should consider the Fit's strong resale value (used Fits were actually selling for more than new ones for a time during last year's fuel spike), along with its long standard-equipment list and Honda's reputation for reliability and longevity. We're working on getting some more time with the Fit and updating our impressions for 2010; in the mean time, check out TheCarConnection.com's Bottom Line on the 2009 Honda Fit, along with our Full Review of the Fit, which features highlights from other reviews around the Web. You might also take a look at this Chevrolet Aveo vs Honda Fit comparison.





Responses (14 total)
By cynic #1, Posted: 8/28/2009
If someone bought one of these with a clunker the car will be selling for more than they paid for it for a long time. This is really a great car.
by Marty Padgett #2, Posted: 8/28/2009
Don't think I've driven a small car with as much room and frugality as the Fit. We took one to Mississippi last year with furniture, bags, etc--and still got 38 mpg.
By nebraska #3, Posted: 8/28/2009
I will say, the Fit is a much slicker car in general vs the Yaris. Not even close. Do I have any disagreements? Can I get a WITNESS?
By jim b. #4, Posted: 8/28/2009
I love this car... perfect for young people who love to surf and have good times. Honda is doing a very good job at reaching to this market.
By AutoBoy #5, Posted: 8/28/2009
wow. sounds like a hell of a car - the description of the likes/dislikes is great. the somewhat higher pricing is a bit surprising. honda must know they've got something good.
I'd give the Yaris the nod in 'cuteness', but I'd rather own the Fit, personally.
By cooldude #7, Posted: 8/28/2009
Honda is always the best when it comes to mileage.
By Joe D. #8, Posted: 8/28/2009
This is what I love about hondas. They always make great cars.
Can't wait for the European Ford Fiesta to take on the Yaris and Fit. I've driven it and it's better than both.
By John #10, Posted: 8/28/2009
Agree with Nelson AND Sid. I think the Fit is the best overall small hatch on the US market today, but I did love the driving experience of the Euro-spec Fiesta:
http://www.greencarreports.com/blog/1019902_2011-ford-fiesta-green-cars-get-good-really-good
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