We’ve liked the Fit since it was first imported from Japan for US Sales in April 2006. Conceptually very good, but lacking a sporty look. The second generation of the Fit for US sales gets a lot better looking, as well as some package improvements to make it more compelling. “The goal is to provide entry-level vehicle customers with functionality and refinement that’s a class above,” said Dick Colliver. “Buying a Fit is a choice, not a compromise.” Ah yes. A nod to the aspirational small car.
More Forward Design, Package, and Features
American Honda saw what the new Fit needed and has done a good job in improving the 2009 Fit revealed here today. The 2009 Fit has a more aggressive stance, leaving behind the less than masculine appearance of its predecessor. Larger 15” and 16” wheels add to the new look. In addition to giving the Fit a more sporty appearance the Fit’s key features have been enhanced. The 5-seater’s wheelbase has been stretched 2 inches and center mounted fuel tank remains, offering a cavernous interior. It’s rear “Magic Seat”, now has a one-motion dive-down operation, which allows the rear seat to fold flat with the front seats in the rearmost slide position and without removing the rear headrests. Additionally, a new hidden storage bin under the rear seat adds a place to store small items. The Fit Sport will now offer an available factory-installed Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition. Also, all Fit Sport models will feature a USB audio interface compatible with current generation iPods® and many USB storage devices.
Safety Sells
With more B-Class Entries coming to the US market, we’re seeing more safety messages in the front lines. The Fit incorporates Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure technology, available Electronic Stability Control and active head restraints. Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, dual front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System and side-curtain airbags are standard equipment on all Fit models. All 5 seating positions have three-point seat belts. Anti-lock braking system (ABS), and electronic brake distribution (EBD).
The Drive
The 2009 Fit has a new 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder, i-VTEC™ engine coupled to either a 5-speed manual transmission or an available, 5-speed automatic transmission, which includes steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the Fit Sport.
We’re looking forward to getting behind the wheel of the 2009 Fit. Info on pricing will come closer to the US launch this Fall.
blog.vehiclevoice.com
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