2007 Honda Fit Review

The new 2007 Honda Fit measures about 19 inches shorter and three inches narrower than the Civic, which makes it extremely easy to park and maneuver, but its tall body and hatchback style makes it extremely space efficient. With all the seats in place, the Fit can accommodate five full-size adults and has 90.1 cubic feet of interior volume, which is less than one cubic foot smaller than the Civic sedan.

The centerpiece of the Fit's interior is a seating arrangement designed specifically to get the most interior space and versatility out of the car's compact exterior dimensions. Called Magic Seat, the system involves an unconventional rear-seat design in which the seatback not only folds forward but the lower cushion can flip up, too. Honda says that the system can provide five distinct cargo and passenger combinations, for long objects, tall objects, and for maximized space and a flat floor. The cargo floor is lower than comparable small cars, as the fuel tank is in the middle of the car versus toward the rear. To aid cargo, the front passenger seat can fold flat forward.

The Fit has a thrifty 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with VTEC variable valve timing and lift, making 109 horsepower. A Drive-by-Wire throttle control enhances throttle response and performance with the optional five-speed automatic transmission (the first five-speed auto in this segment). A five-speed manual gearbox is standard.

An Electric Power Steering (EPS) system is more responsive than most hydraulic units while improving fuel economy. The Fit gets 33 mpg city, 38 highway in the EPA cycles.

There are two models, Fit and Fit Sport. The base Fit comes with air conditioning, a four-speaker CD audio system, air conditioning, and power windows, mirrors, and locks. The Fit Sport adds 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, an upgraded 160-watt audio system with MP3 playback and auxiliary input, fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a body kit, and remote keyless entry.

The Fit Sport also adds paddle shifters alongside the steering wheel on automatic transmission models, to allow the driver easy control over shifts. This feature is typically only seen on more expensive models.

Anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, along with side curtain air bags and front-seat side air bags, are standard on all Fits.

Honda is offering a line of aftermarket and dealer-installed accessories for the Fit. Examples include ambient lighting kits, contrasting trim, larger 16-inch alloy wheels, and a chrome-tipped sport exhaust system.
The subcompact Honda Fit four-door hatchback is a new model for the U.S. market for 2007, though the model has already been sold as the Jazz in other countries for several years. The sporty Fit slots below the Civic in Honda's lineup and is smaller overall, but it has a roomy interior and extremely space-efficient design. see less