Slightly more sport, still lots of subcompact
Pushing the 2009 Fit through turns isn't all that different from driving the 2008 model, although there are improvements that help to engage the driver. The quick-ratio steering provides sporty turn-in, but is burdened by the artificial feel of electric assist. The handling benefits from greater chassis rigidity, with the car more willingly following a quick line through a turn but still understeering at the limit. Power is adequate around town and the engine has enough spirit to be fun when driven hard. The manual shifter is much more willing to play and encourages you to keep the tachometer needle in the 3500-rpm fun zone. However, the automatic Fit often feels anemic at high rev ranges.
Maintaining the title
The Fit's largest strides come during city driving, with improved engine responsiveness and better isolation from large bumps. Add incremental improvements in the driving experience, styling, packaging, and equipment list, and the Fit should retain its title as king of the class. The new Fit goes on sale in early September. Prices increase by $600 to $900. Base models are priced from $15,220, while Sport models start at $16,730. Fully equipped models will cost more than $19,000. Despite creeping onto the Civic's price turf, we expect the Fit will continue to be a hot seller as more buyers look for efficient cars that offer utility and up-level content.