Just two and a half years after the Honda Fit arrived in the U.S. as a subcompact class-leader, we're set to receive an all-new model for 2009. That's because the Fit wasn't exactly brand-new when it arrived here in April 2006-it had already been out for five years in Japan. Impressive fuel efficiency and creative packaging pushed the old Fit to the front of the pack, but the new version will attempt to maintain that position with greater refinement, better dynamics, and premium features.
Growing up doesn't have to be awkward
The car's new styling adds a sporty edge with a forward-leaning stance. The previous car's bulging headlights are replaced by stylized, angular units that play off a more aggressive upper grille and a raised hood bump. Sport models receive fog lights, a rear spoiler, revised fascias and a chrome exhaust tip along with larger, 16-inch wheels.
Honda refers to the new shape as "super-forward" with the cabin moved even further forward and the quarter windows between the front door and A-pillar tripling in size. Overall length grows by more than four inches, but that change is almost entirely captured in the front overhang that is lengthened exclusively for North American models to accommodate crash standards and styling preferences. Width is increased by approximately half an inch. ...next page >>