2008 Honda Fit Review | Buyer Guide
Fit to Please
It’s common knowledge that 2008 is turning out to be the worst year for car companies in more than a decade. Sales are down substantially for most automakers. Even mighty Toyota is in a slump. However, one large manufacturer, Honda, is bucking the trend. The last time I checked, their sales were up nearly ten percent. The reason for their success is that they have a lineup of fuel-efficient cars, like the Honda Fit.
The Fit is a funky-looking vehicle, with large bug-eyed headlights, a steeply raked windshield and wheels that look a little too small for its body. Yet, for a sub-compact car, it is surprisingly roomy. Four adults sit in chair-like seats with adequate head and legroom, although, the seat cushions are a bit skimpy. The storage area behind the seats is spacious at 21.3 cu-ft, which is nearly equal to that of the Honda Element. Ten small storage bins around the cabin provide convenient places for stowing odds and ends.
The Fit is also a model of versatility. The interior can be configured to haul a wide range of cargo. The 60/40 second-row seatbacks fold forward to form a large 42-cu-ft storage area. The front passenger’s seatback will also lie flat, when you need to haul a ladder or a surfboard. And that tall box that won’t fit in back, will slide through a side door, after you have raised the rear-seat cushions. Furthermore, you can even sleep in the Fit by reclining the front seatbacks.
However, the Fit is not only versatile, it’s fun to drive. My test car reminded me of an early Honda Civic—not a lot of frills, but very entertaining. Honda powers this car with a spunky 1.5-liter, four-banger that cranks out 109 horsepower. This engine will rev willingly to 6500-rpm, but it doesn’t have a lot of pulling power below 3000 rpm. You need to keep the revs up to get strong performance. However, the standard 5-speed manual gearbox is easy to use. Both the clutch and the shifter feel light. A 5-speed automatic is optional.
The Fit really shines on twisty back roads. This car is light (2432 lbs.) and nimble. The steering is quick, so it only takes a flick of the wheel to change direction. Once in a turn, the Fit grips the road tenaciously, and without significant body-lean. But if you are looking for a smooth ride, the Fit will disappoint you. It telegraphs every bump in the road.
The base model Fit ($14,585) comes with air conditioning, power windows, mirrors and locks, as well as an AM/FM/CD audio system. However, if you spring for another $1320, you can have the Sport model that adds features like ground-hugging bodywork, a rear spoiler, 15-inch alloy wheels, and paddle shifters with the automatic transmission. These shifters are mounted on the steering wheel, and are fun to use. You can change gears for more control, or let the automatic shift itself.
Both models of the Fit come with six airbags, anti-lock brakes and electronic brake distribution. Furthermore, this car has received a 5-star rating from the NHTSA in frontal crash tests. The Fit is rated at 28 MPG in the city, and 34 MPG on the highway.
Snapshot Review
Funky Styling
Versatile Interior
Fun to Drive
Good Gas Mileage
