2009 Honda Fit

By John Rettie

It might seem only a short time since Honda introduced the Fit. Yet the company is now introducing a second edition. Truth be known, the previous Fit had been on the market for several years before it arrived in the U.S. market. This time Americans do not have to wait as long to get a new version as the all-new Fit goes on sale in the summer of 2008 as a 2009 model.

Those who thought the previous Fit, known in many parts of the world as the Jazz, was perhaps too small will not be disappointed as the new Fit is a tad larger. This should fit the bill for many who really need a smaller car but perhaps don't want one. How's that for an oxymoron?

Overall, the look of the 2009 Honda Fit is similar to that of the previous model, but it has a much more heavily raked windshield that's located five inches farther forward. Apart from giving the car a more sporty look, it also makes for a much more spacious feel inside.

The 2009 Fit has a wheelbase that's two inches longer than that of the previous model. The new Fit gets an upgraded 1.5-liter VTEC four-cylinder engine that produces about 10 percent more horsepower. It's comes with a choice of five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission; the Sport model's automatic comes with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Despite a slight increase in size, the new Fit only weighs a few pounds more and even with an increase in power it is expected to deliver better fuel economy, an impressive achievement.

A key attribute of the Fit is its flexible cargo carrying capability. It has a large rear tailgate that allows easy access to the luggage area. Furthermore, the so-called rear Magic Seat has been further improved so it can now be folded flat in one single movement, without removing the headrest even if the front seats are in their rearmost position. There are several combinations of seating positions to provide flexible storage needs. A new hidden storage bin underneath the driver's side rear seat for placing small items securely out of sight.

The Fit Sport gets larger, 16-inch wheels and an optional Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System features a 6.5-inch screen with voice recognition. All Fit Sport models include a USB audio interface that's compatible with current-generation iPods and many other USB storage devices.

Although the Fit is a small entry-level car it features a full complement of safety features including full curtain side airbags, ABS and electronic brake distribution system. A vehicle stability assist (VSA) system with active headrests is available as an option.

Full specifications and pricing for the new Fit will be available when the car goes on sale in the summer as a 2009 model.