Sunday, July 17, 2011

Honda fit sport

Honda fit sport
Premium subcompact hatchback"? Isn't that a classic oxymoron, on the order of "business ethics", "military intelligence", or "computer security"?
Not, not if the subcompact hatchback in question is a Honda Fit. When it debuted a few years ago, Honda deliberately placed it above its Asian competitors in standard equipment level and pricing. And performance. Although adhering to the basic "econobox" formula -- small size, hatchback body, front-wheel drive, and MacPherson strut/torsion beam axle suspension, in design and execution the original Fit was a step or three above any other Oriental machine. Only the Mini and VW GTI out-did it as a premium hatch, but at a potentially considerably higher price level.
 Honda fit sport
A second generation of Fit makes its debut for model year 2009, and adds a little more room, a touch more performance -- with no fuel economy penalty -- and more visual flair to its repertoire. Its unibody structure is stronger and more rigid, benefitting both ride and handling and safety, with no weight penalty, while developments to the 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine have allowed a small but noticeable gain in power -- 8 hp -- on the same small amount of unleaded regular.
As before, there are two trim levels, the regular Fit and the Fit Sport. The Sport is, well, sportier, with the obligatory "aero-kit" look outside, fancier trim inside, and upgraded wheels, tires, and suspension. Both are offered with five-speed manual or automatic transmissions; the Sport gets manual-mode paddle-shifters on the steering column with its automatic.
 Honda fit sport
I've just finished a week with a manual Fit Sport, and I'm sad. It's gone. I should probably recuse myself from reviewing it as I liked it entirely too much. But what's not to like?
 Honda fit sport
The Fit Sport comes as close to being my (personal) ideal car as anything in production today, with a winning combination of a small, easy-to-park external size, plenty of interior, and great access to and reconfigurability for that interior, entertaining performance and handling, all with a frugal appetite for fuel. It's economical and it's, at heart, a (very useful) box, but it's no "econobox".
 Honda fit sport
The Fit is more like the reincarnation of the CRX than ever, but with more room inside that the late CRX and four doors for better access to that room.
 Honda fit sport
Honda fit sport

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